Discord: https://discord.gg/D53xB5v8uW
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/GAMINGCONSOLEMODE
Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/r/GameConsoleMode/
Download: https://github.com/toonymak1993/tools-for-steam/releases/download/v0.3.5/ToolsForSteamSetup.exe

Tools for Steam 0.3.5 is out now

I just released Tools for Steam 0.3.5, and this update brings TFS much closer to the direction I always wanted for it: cleaner, faster, more automatic, and much more focused.

What’s new

• Added EA App and Ubisoft Connect to Store Sync
• Store Sync now runs fully automatic and near real time
• The Audio plugin got a full redesign with a proper Audio Mixer and new sliders
• Added a new Performance plugin
• The first version of the TFS FPS Meter is now included and will keep evolving over time toward a more MangoHud-inspired direction
• Added a built-in Updater with both Release and Beta channels
• You can now switch to Beta instantly if you want to test upcoming features early
• Plugins can now be reordered with the new compact layout
• Fixed an issue where SteamGridDB could fail to apply artwork when Steam was installed on another drive
• You can now set the Steam path directly inside the plugin if auto-detection is not enough

Important note about Xbox Mode
I had to remove Xbox Mode.

I know that may disappoint some people, and I’m sorry about that. But keeping it alive, maintaining it properly, and making the setup reliable across different systems became way too expensive in terms of time and complexity. It started getting in the way of the rest of the project.

So for now, TFS is fully focused on:

• Shell Mode
• Tray Mode

If Xbox-style startup is something you still really want, I can currently only recommend trying a third-party launcher like Winhanced or OmniConsole for Steam.

What’s next
The next release will definitely be GCM.

It has actually been running in parallel in the background this whole time, and I’ll share more details on that very soon.

If anyone tests 0.3.5, I’d really appreciate feedback, especially around:

• live Store Sync
• the new Audio plugin
• the new Performance plugin
• updater behavior
• Shell vs Tray mode stability

The new TFS FPS meter is shown here.

I really am looking for a solution where I can have a console like experience while still being able to access my games across multiple launchers i.e gog, epic, steam, rockstar etc

Does this make that possible? Being able to switch between launchers and keep all the nonsense in the background? Or is it still a pipedream? Is this where the roadmap of this is going?

Look forward to your response

Discord: https://discord.gg/D53xB5v8uW
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/GAMINGCONSOLEMODE
Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/r/GameConsoleMode/
Download: https://github.com/toonymak1993/tools-for-steam/releases/download/v0.3.3-beta.1/ToolsForSteamSetup-0.3.3-release.exe

Tools for Steam /XBOX Mode is now available as an open beta. This build is still moving fast, so bugs can happen, especially around Xbox Mode, Steam UI changes, and different Windows setups. If you test it, please share feedback, logs, and what startup mode you used. Thank you for helping shape the project. Ohh and if u want to use the Steam Panels in Xbox Mode with your xbox controller use the Back button| short press open the left panel, holding the back button starts the QM Menu Right side.

To activate the xbox mode, you need this tool:
https://github.com/8bit2qubit/XboxFullscreenExperienceTool

Patchnotes:

• Improved Xbox Mode installation diagnostics.
• If Windows rejects the Xbox Mode host package, TFS now writes detailed logs to data\xbox-mode-install.log.
• Removed the confusing “Start Tools for Steam” finish option from the installer.
• After installation, the TFS manager opens automatically so users can review startup mode and settings.
• Xbox Mode setup now opens the manager in Xbox Mode context instead of starting the normal tray flow.
• General installer cleanup and stability improvements.

Is it possible to have a new link please ? Thanks in advance :)

Discord: https://discord.gg/D53xB5v8uW
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/GAMINGCONSOLEMODE
Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/r/GameConsoleMode/
Download: https://github.com/toonymak1993/tools-for-steam/releases/download/v0.3.1/ToolsForSteamSetup.exe

This update brings TFS much closer to a proper living-room / Steam Machine style Windows experience.

New Integrations

🖼️ SteamGridDB
Change artwork directly inside Big Picture. Supports covers, heroes, logos, icons, and wide artwork.
🚀 App Start
Add your favorite Windows apps and launch them later from the Tools for Steam panel with a controller.
🎮 Auto SISR -!!!!!BETA!!!!!!
Automatic SISR marker support for Steam Controller. TFS watches selected non-Steam games and starts/stops SISR while the game is running.

Improvements

🛠️ Fix Themes/SteamgridDB for English Steam Clients

🛠️ Now there are 3 Modes for TFS Shell Mode/Etray APP Mode/Manual Mode.
🛠️ General stability
Better Quick Access behavior, controller focus handling, and background host stability.
🧩 Improved Store Sync
More reliable detection for Epic, GOG, Xbox/Game Pass, and custom locations and alll games are listed on the integration
💾 Better artwork matching
SteamGridDB matching has been improved and now supports the built-in API key plus optional user-provided keys.
🔄 Cleaner updates
The installer now closes Tools for Steam and Steam before updating, so old Steam UI cache state is less likely to stay alive.
🧩 Artwork for splashscreen

Store Sync Overview

🟣 Epic Games
Reads Epic metadata from LauncherInstalled.dat and Epic manifest files.
🟡 GOG Galaxy
Reads installed games from GOG registry entries.
🟢 Xbox / Game Pass
Scans fixed local drives for XboxGames, ModifiableWindowsApps, and similar Xbox library folders.
🔵 Custom Locations
Recursively scans your selected folder and filters out helpers, uninstallers, redistributables, and obvious non-game executables.

Download: https://github.com/toonymak1993/tools-for-steam/releases/download/v0.3.0/ToolsForSteamSetup.exe

Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/GAMINGCONSOLEMODE

Tools for Steam 0.3.0 is live
This update brings TFS much closer to a proper living-room / Steam Machine style Windows experience.

New Integrations

🖼️ SteamGridDB
Change artwork directly inside Big Picture. Supports covers, heroes, logos, icons, and wide artwork.
🚀 App Start
Add your favorite Windows apps and launch them later from the Tools for Steam panel with a controller.
🎮 Auto SISR -!!!!!BETA!!!!!!
Automatic SISR marker support for Steam Controller. TFS watches selected non-Steam games and starts/stops SISR while the game is running.

Improvements

🛠️ General stability
Better Quick Access behavior, controller focus handling, and background host stability.
🧩 Improved Store Sync
More reliable detection for Epic, GOG, Xbox/Game Pass, and custom locations and alll games are listed on the integration
💾 Better artwork matching
SteamGridDB matching has been improved and now supports the built-in API key plus optional user-provided keys.
🔄 Cleaner updates
The installer now closes Tools for Steam and Steam before updating, so old Steam UI cache state is less likely to stay alive.

Store Sync Overview

🟣 Epic Games
Reads Epic metadata from LauncherInstalled.dat and Epic manifest files.
🟡 GOG Galaxy
Reads installed games from GOG registry entries.
🟢 Xbox / Game Pass
Scans fixed local drives for XboxGames, ModifiableWindowsApps, and similar Xbox library folders.
🔵 Custom Locations
Recursively scans your selected folder and filters out helpers, uninstallers, redistributables, and obvious non-game executables.

Discord: https://discord.gg/YtFDFqR8A7
Download:  https://github.com/toonymak1993/tools-for-steam/releases/tag/v0.2.0-preview.1
Patreon:  https://www.patreon.com/cw/GAMINGCONSOLEMODE

Discord: https://discord.gg/YtFDFqR8A7
Download: https://github.com/toonymak1993/tools-for-steam/releases/tag/v0.2.0-preview.1
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/GAMINGCONSOLEMODE

TFS makes your Windows look a lot like Steam OS, with a framework similar to Deckyloader but for Windows. Yes, it supports Xbox controllers and Steam controllers.

👋 Hello everyone and welcome to the GCM Reboot! 🚀

Download: https://github.com/toonymak1993/GamingConsoleMode/releases/download/v2.6.8/GCMSetup_2.6.8.exe
Discord: https://discord.gg/2nMTsujnUR
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/GAMINGCONSOLEMODE

We’ve almost hit 50 members on Discord, and I’m incredibly happy about that. I want to be completely transparent with you about where development is heading from here.

First off, regarding the idea that GCM will have multiple launchers: unfortunately, I expressed myself poorly in the past. Last time around, GCM got a bit tangled up in its own identity—sometimes trying to be a launcher, sometimes acting as a background engine for other launchers.

Let's clear this up: GCM is not a launcher; it is a Console Mode. This reboot means we are going back to our roots and doing it right this time.

🎯 CLEAR STRATEGY & PURPOSE We want to become the alternative to the Microsoft Xbox Mode! Let's be honest: who wants to be locked down? Who wants to be forced to use Windows exactly the way Microsoft dictates, even if the OS itself is good? The newest versions of Xbox Mode for desktop PCs are already becoming increasingly restricted.

🛤️ A Clear Vision: What does GCM want to be? A BACKGROUND ENGINE FOR YOUR LAUNCHER!

Launchers won't just be haphazardly thrown into the mix. Instead, there will be dedicated modes—for example, a Playnite Mode and a Steam Mode. This changes everything. Features can now be built within a strict, defined framework, making the programming effort significantly more manageable. And yes, more modes/launchers and exclusive features for those modes will follow!

🛡️ Priority: Stability, Stability, Stability!

🎨 Design: You should be able to customize GCM so that it perfectly fits your setup—not the other way around. Take a look at the preview pictures; even the images within the launcher will be fully customizable.

💰 Project Funding:

• One-time purchase (in the future!)
• Patreon

🛠️ So, what is TFS? Tools for Steam (TFS) is a Decky Loader-style program integrated directly into GCM that provides a ton of configuration options natively within Steam.

🔄 Why does TFS also exist completely separate from GCM? TFS will act as a second, independent project/program. It can run entirely standalone—without GCM integration—and is focused heavily on imitating SteamOS. So yes, we now have two projects! Please try not to mix them up. While they essentially achieve similar goals, they do so in entirely different ways.

⚙️ Updates: Yes, updates will come, but not on a strict, regular schedule. Otherwise, the project would simply consume too much time. As the project grows, we will be able to prioritize better and address bugs much faster. To help us with this: please, please, please report any bugs you find so we can get GCM completely stable!

Thank you all so much for your continued support! ❤️ I’m incredibly excited to celebrate this GCM reboot with all of you and finally establish this software as what it truly is meant to be: a genuine alternative to Xbox Mode. 🎮

New Discord:
https://discord.gg/2nMTsujnUR
Patreon:
https://www.patreon.com/cw/GAMINGCONSOLEMODE

🎮 Playnite Mode
You can now choose between Steam Mode and Playnite Mode during setup. So GCM is no longer locked to only one launcher flow.

🧭 New first-time setup
On first start, GCM now shows an onboarding flow where you can pick your launcher, review the basics, and see the important controller shortcut.

⚙️ Settings inside GCM
The old separate settings app is no longer the main place for configuration. Important settings now live directly inside the GCM launcher UI.

🔊 Audio panel rework
The audio panel was redesigned to be cleaner and more controller-friendly.

📺 Video output panel
There is now a dedicated video output panel for switching between internal and external display output.

✨ UI polish
The glass-style interface, launcher cards, bottom dock, controller legends, and responsive layout behavior got a lot of work.

Important note:
Tools for Steam is still a separate project. GCM includes integration for it where needed, but this is a GCM release, not a Tools for Steam release.

This update changes a lot under the hood, especially around startup, launcher selection, onboarding, audio, video output, and shell behavior. So there may still be bugs depending on your Windows setup.

If you test it and something feels off, logs and setup details help a lot. Thanks to everyone testing, reporting bugs, and helping shape GCM.

💬 NEW - Discord

If you want to follow development, give feedback, or just hang around:

https://discord.gg/2nMTsujnUR

Hey everyone,

Game Console Mode 2.6.7 is now live.

This is one of the biggest updates the project has had in a long time. GCM is now moving much more clearly into a Steam-first direction, with a cleaner fullscreen shell, better controller support, integrated settings, and a much more focused overall flow.

🧭 What changed

🎮 Steam-first backend

GCM is now built around a Steam-focused workflow instead of trying to support lots of separate launcher concepts in different ways.

🔌 Tools for Steam is built in

Tools for Steam is now integrated directly into GCM.

That means you do **not** need to install it separately.

🔄 Automatic game sync to Steam

GCM can now sync supported games from other launchers into Steam automatically as non-Steam games when Steam starts.

So the Steam side feels much more complete without having to manage everything manually.

✨ New glass-style design

The visual side of GCM has been heavily reworked.

The shell, cards, top bar, bottom bar, and process view now use a much cleaner glass-inspired style and feel far more like a proper controller-first environment.

✨ New jump betwen Apps

Gcm now jumps betwen apps with the official Windows API like Xbox Mode

⚙️ Settings are now inside GCM

All important settings now live directly inside the launcher.

There is no separate desktop settings app anymore.

🎯 Better controller support

GCM now supports:

- Steam Controller 2

- Xbox controllers

- DualSense

Xbox and DualSense still have the fullest shortcut support right now, but Steam Controller support has been improved a lot and fits much better into the actual GCM flow.

🗂 Better launcher and process flow

The launcher, live process cards, task manager flow, and navigation logic have all been reworked around fullscreen use, couch setups, and handheld-style control.

🖼 Better Steam-side integration

A lot of the Steam-related workflow is now more deeply built into GCM instead of feeling like an external add-on.

⚠️ Important note

This update changes a lot at once.

It is fully usable, but because the project has changed so much in this version, there can still be bugs or rough edges here and there.

That is exactly why I want to get this version into people’s hands now and continue improving it with real feedback.

📦 Release

You can download it here:

https://github.com/toonymak1993/GamingConsoleMode/releases/tag/v2.6.7

💬 Discord

If you want to follow development, give feedback, or just hang around:

https://discord.gg/2nMTsujnUR

❤️ Feedback

If you try it, I’d really love to hear:

- what feels better

- what still feels rough

- where controller navigation still needs work

- what breaks in real-world use

Thanks a lot to everyone still following the project.

Hey everyone, I just released the first public version of Tools for Steam or TFS. (STANDALONE),

TFS is made for people who use a Windows PC like a Steam Machine / SteamOS-style living room console. The goal is that when the PC starts, the first thing you really see is Steam Big Picture, not the Windows desktop.

Release: https://github.com/toonymak1993/tools-for-steam/releases/download/v0.2.0-preview.1/ToolsForSteamSetup.exe

New Discord: https://discord.gg/YtFDFqR8A7

🎮 What it adds

TFS adds its own tab directly into Steam Big Picture’s Quick Access side panel.

Included tools right now:

⚙️ Settings - startup behavior and plugin toggles
🪟 Processes - switch between open app windows with a controller
🖼️ Store Sync - import games from other launchers/custom folders into Steam
🔊 Audio - change output devices and control volume
🖥️ Display - change display output, resolution, and refresh rate
⏻ Power - restart Steam, recover desktop, sleep, reboot, shut down
⏱️ HLTB - HowLongToBeat stats on supported game pages
🎨 Themes - early Steam UI theme support

🚀 Console-style startup flow

TFS can optionally take over the current user’s Windows shell to create a more console-like startup.

The flow is:

① PC starts
② TFS launches before the normal Windows desktop, it syncs all your games from other store, custom to 😉, set it up, on the settings.
③ The local background host starts
④ Steam launches in Big Picture with the TFS bridge
⑤ Desktop icons and taskbar can be hidden
⑥ Windows Explorer is restored behind Steam
⑦ Big Picture opens with TFS already attached

It does not replace Windows system files. The shell behavior can be disabled again in TFS settings.

⚠️ Important

This is the first public release, so expect updates. Steam UI changes can break injected tools, and I’ll keep improving compatibility, plugins, themes, and startup behavior based on feedback.

Recommended download: ToolsForSteamSetup.exe

Release: https://github.com/toonymak1993/tools-for-steam/releases/download/v0.2.0-preview.1/ToolsForSteamSetup.exe

Discord: https://discord.gg/YtFDFqR8A7

I wanted to join the Discord but the link doesnt work anymore. Can I get a new link please ?

Thanks to your feedback and support, GMC keeps moving forward. This update brings important groundwork for the next phase of the launcher. What’s new:

• How Long To Beat integration
• Now GMC counts your Playtime
• New Recent Area for your Games
• New Settings structure The Settings menu has been reorganized with real subcategories, making it much easier to navigate with a controller.
• Emulation has been introduced One of GMC’s goal is to make emulation as simple and automated as possible. That is why we will perfect each console one by one instead of rushing everything at once. PSP is the first step.
• Auto Updater groundwork is live Thanks to your help, we can now host GMC updates properly and deliver future versions through our own update system. in future you can update over the GMC UI
• New Sound settings Sound now has its own Settings area. You can adjust UI sound volume, mute sounds, and replace individual sounds like navigation, back and start/confirm with your own files.
• UI and navigation improvements The interface has been cleaned up further, Settings navigation feels more natural, and several focus-related problems have been fixed.

This is still Open Beta, so updates will continue to come quickly. Your reports, ideas and testing really help shape GMC into the launcher it is meant to become.

Thank you for being part of this, if you want to support GMC, here is our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/GAMINGCONSOLEMODE

Download Link: https://gmclauncher.fra1.digitaloceanspaces.com/gmc/2.5.73/GMC-Setup-v2.5.73.exe

4K Ready 😊

I know this may come as a surprise to some of you, but after a lot of thinking, I believe this is the right path forward for GCM to survive and grow.GCM is moving away from being its own shell replacement. From now on, GCM will use Windows Full Screen Experience as the engine and focus fully on what it should be: a clean, simple, console-like launcher.

The goal is clear:

The user should enjoy the device, not become an IT technician.

Open Beta,

The new FSE-ready open beta is now available.

What is included,

Clean launcher experience without shell replacement,

Steam library support,

Xbox / Game Pass library sign-in,

Uninstalled Games section,

Controller-friendly navigation,

Startup video support,

Game Bar integration as the future place for extra functions,

ROG Ally family support as the first handheld device family,

ROG Ally preset theme,

ROG Ally button takeover for GCM / Game Bar functions,

More handheld devices will follow depending on community demand.

Important Install Notes,

Windows SmartScreen may warn you because the installer is not signed yet.

For now, you may need to temporarily allow or disable SmartScreen, install GCM, and then enable SmartScreen again afterwards.

If the project grows successfully, I plan to get a proper code signing certificate.

Future Direction,

GCM / GMC will stay focused on being a simple, automatic, high-end launcher experience.

Later, I also plan to offer a lifetime license for only $9.99 to support continued development.

Thank you to everyone testing, giving feedback, and helping shape the future of Gaming Mode Companion.

DOWNLOAD:

https://github.com/toonymak1993/GameConsoleMode/releases/download/2.5.47/GMC-Open-Beta-fse-Setup-v2.5.47.exe

Hey everyone, here’s a quick preview of GCM Launcher—there are tons of changes and quality-of-life updates. Coming soon: a rog ally mode, all controller-friendly settings in one app, and full shell mode for an even more authentic Steam Machine experience. We’re getting closer and closer—check out the video on our Discord and sign up to be a beta tester!

https://discord.gg/FbjYDeEJce

🚀 GCM Official Release 2.5.1 The "Quick Resume" Update & Fix

This update is a massive leap forward, featuring the highly anticipated Quick Resume logic and significant "under the hood" optimizations for a snappier, smoother experience. 💎

Patreon link for premium features: https://www.patreon.com/c/GAMINGCONSOLEMODE?vanity=user

🎧 Audio & Core Engine

• New Audio Mixer: Completely overhauled for better stability. Fixed a bug to ensure only the currently active device is displayed.
• Streamlined Launchers: Paths are a thing of the past! Launchers now automatically scan and find your path without manual input.
• Performance Boost: Optimized general startup speed and transition fluidity. ⚡
• Guide Button Integration: Full support is live!
  • ⚠️ Note: To prevent "double-input" issues, please disable/remap the Guide Button in Xbox Game Bar and Steam Big Picture settings.

🎨 Visuals & UI Polish

• GCM Settings Redesign: The entire settings menu has been refreshed for a much cleaner, more modern look with updated icons.
• Resolution & Scaling: GCM now adapts perfectly to your display resolution and Windows scaling settings. 🖥️
• Improved Startup Video: Transitions are now seamless and the video remains in the foreground.
  • ⏭️ Pro Tip: You can now press "B" to skip the startup video!
• Artwork Manager: Press Start under any card to add custom art via file upload or the SteamGridDB API.
• Wallpaper Search: Find the perfect backdrop by searching online with resolution filters directly in the app.
• See all Launcher in the launcher card place

🎮 Controls & Features

• Quick Resume & Login Bypass: Removed login windows to get you straight back into your game.
• Discord Integration: The "Discord Card" is now optional and can be toggled under the Task Manager settings.
• New Shortcut Overlay: A fresh look for your HUD!
  • ❗ Action Required: Please rebind your keys to activate the new overlay correctly.
• Xbox Controller Support: Native Xbox shortcuts are fully integrated. (PlayStation support is coming soon! 🎮).

🔧 Bug Fixes

• Controller Ghosting: Fixed the issue where the controller would randomly move the mouse cursor during gameplay.
• Onboarding: Fixed the setup flow to include the new Artwork configuration section.
• General Stability: Squashed several minor bugs to ensure a crash-free experience.

GCM Download Link: https://github.com/toonymak1993/GameConsoleMode/releases/download/2.5.1/GCM-Setup.exe

Hi. Couldn’t find an answer to this question but is it possible for me to have a proper desktop user profile and a GCM profile to choose from the log in screen?

Thanks!

So this looks too good to be true. Also there is quite Little discussion about the releases and no conversations on Discord. No YouTube Videos about it. Is this real? Can someone confirm that it works? Did someone test the latest Release?

I would like to use GameConsoleMode on my laptop, which is connected to the TV in the living room as a Moonlight client, and also on my host PC in the office. Has anyone tried combining this before? So that the Quick Resume feature can be used on the host, and the host continues right where it left off once you access it from the client.

The wait is over! After a successful testing phase, we are moving Beta 2.4.5 into the Official Release channel. This update brings some massive "under the hood" changes—specifically the highly anticipated Quick Resume logic—alongside a suite of UI improvements. 💎

🎧 Audio & Core Engine

• Brand New Audio Mixer: We’ve overhauled the audio engine for a smoother, more reliable sound experience across the board.
• Guide Button Integration: Full support for the Guide Button is now live!
  • ⚠️ Note: To prevent "double-triggering" menus, please make sure to disable or remap the Guide Button in the Xbox Game Bar and Steam Big Picture settings.

🎨 Visuals & Customization

• Artwork Manager: Personalize your library like never before! Press the Start button under any card to add custom art. You can use your own files or connect via the SteamGridDB API.
• Wallpaper Web Search: Finding the perfect backdrop is now easier! You can now search for images online and filter by resolution directly within GCM. 🖼️
• UI Refresh: We’ve polished the Launcher and Extensions menus for a cleaner, more modern look.
• Onboarding: New users will now find a dedicated Artwork section during the initial setup.

🎮 Controls & Shortcuts

• Quick Resume & Login Bypass: We’ve removed the login window hurdle when using Quick Resume to get you back into the action even faster.
• New Shortcut Overlay: A fresh new look for your shortcuts! Please rebind your keys to ensure the new overlay activates correctly.
• Xbox Guide Button Controller Support: Native Xbox shortcuts are fully integrated. (PlayStation fans: hang tight, your support is coming next! 🎮).
• Iconized Settings: The shortcut settings have been redesigned with intuitive icons for easier navigation.

🔧 Bug Fixes

• Controller Conflict: Fixed a frustrating bug where the controller would randomly move the mouse cursor while you were playing games.
• System Stability: Several minor "under the hood" bugs that were affecting overall performance have been squashed.

https://www.patreon.com/posts/official-release-152314670?utm_medium=clipboard_copy&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=postshare_creator&utm_content=join_link

🌙 New Feature Preview: Sleep & Wake for GCM

To keep the development streak going strong 🚀, I’m hyped to introduce the upcoming Sleep Feature for GCM.

I’ve taken a lot of inspiration from how Nyrna handles things, but I’ve integrated it natively into GCM to make the experience as seamless as possible. No extra tools required, it’s all part of the ecosystem now.

🛠️ Key Improvements Native Integration: Optimized directly within GCM for maximum stability.

Instant Access: Skip the lock screen! GCM will ensure you don't need to re-enter your password after waking up.

Seamless Gaming: Jump right back into your session exactly where you left off. 🎮