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Kosnix edited this page Feb 20, 2025 · 3 revisions

GameConsoleMode (GCM) Wiki 🎮

Welcome to the official documentation for GameConsoleMode (GCM). This Wiki serves as a comprehensive guide to understanding, setting up, and using GCM to transform your PC into a gaming console-like experience while retaining Windows' flexibility.


Table of Contents


Introduction

What is GameConsoleMode?

GameConsoleMode (GCM) is a powerful C# application that transforms your PC into a gaming console-like environment by replacing the Windows shell temporarily. Designed for gamers who prefer a streamlined interface while retaining the versatility of Windows, GCM provides a seamless gaming experience by integrating with popular launchers like Steam and Playnite.

Important Notice

⚠️ Beta Software: GCM modifies critical parts of the Windows environment, including the registry. Use at your own risk.

  • Improper use or unexpected issues may impact your system.
  • It's recommended to disable User Account Control (UAC) for a seamless experience, though it reduces security.

Features

🌟 Core Functionalities

  1. Shell Replacement:

    • Temporarily replaces the Windows Explorer shell with GCM’s custom interface.
    • Hides the Windows desktop, taskbar, and elements for a console-like experience.
  2. Multiple Launcher Support:

    • Seamless integration with:
      • Steam
      • Playnite
      • Custom launchers
    • Automatically detects and launches the configured game launcher upon startup.
  3. Mouse Cursor Management:

    • Dynamically hides/shows the cursor based on launcher or game states for immersion.
  4. Screen Management:

    • Handles multi-screen setups, restoring the original layout after exiting GCM.
  5. Audio Management:

    • Define a default audio output device for gaming sessions.
    • Ideal for multi-device setups.
  6. Startup Video Integration:

    • Play a custom video during GCM startup for an immersive experience.
  7. Controller Shortcuts:

    • Launch GCM or return to Windows using controller-mapped shortcuts.

🚀 Latest Features and Improvements

  1. Advanced Mouse Controller Replacement with Joyxoff:

    • Improved precision and compatibility with Joyxoff integration.
  2. CSS Loader for Steam Big Picture:

    • Customize Steam Big Picture mode with a CSS Loader, automatically detected and launched by GCM.
  3. Full Integration with DisplayFusion:

    • Manage advanced screen configurations and profiles during GCM startup and shutdown.
  4. Enhanced Audio Management:

    • Automatic activation of selected audio output devices.

Installation and Setup

Prerequisites

  1. Software Requirements:
    • Windows OS
    • .NET Framework

Setup Instructions

  1. Download the newest version under releases:

  2. install GCM over the installer:

  3. Run the Application:


Configuration

Use the Settings application to customize GCM:

  1. Launcher Settings:

    • Choose your preferred launcher: Steam, Playnite, or a custom executable.
    • Specify the launcher’s file path.
  2. Startup Video:

    • Select a video file for playback during GCM startup.
  3. Audio Settings:

    • Choose a default audio output device.
  4. Screen Management:

    • Adjust preferences for multi-monitor setups.
  5. Additional Features:

    • Enable or disable advanced features like CSS Loader or DisplayFusion integration.

Usage Guide

  1. Launching GCM:

    • Run start-gcm. The application will initialize and verify necessary files.
  2. Entering Console Mode:

    • The Windows interface will be hidden/close, and your configured game launcher will start automatically.
  3. Immersive Gaming:

    • Play your games without Windows interface distractions.
  4. Returning to Windows:

    • Close the game launcher or use a controller shortcut to exit GCM.

Contributing

Contributions are welcome! Here’s how you can help:

  1. Report Issues:

    • Use the Issues tab on GitHub for bug reports and feature requests.
  2. Submit Pull Requests:

    • Fork the repository and create a new branch:
      git checkout -b feature/your-feature-name
    • Push your changes and open a pull request.
  3. Acknowledgments:

    • Special thanks to [toonymak1993] for active participation and valuable contributions.

Contact

For support, contact us via Discord: .kosnixor '.Toonymak'.

GCM is constantly evolving. Try it out and let us know how we can improve your experience!

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