The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion is an iconic action role-playing game that has captivated gamers for generations. Released in 2006, this Bethesda Softworks masterpiece still boasts a dedicated fan base, with many players seeking to enhance their gaming experience. One popular modification is playing Oblivion in windowed fullscreen mode, which offers a more flexible and immersive experience. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the world of Oblivion and explore the steps to make Oblivion windowed fullscreen.
Understanding the Benefits of Windowed Fullscreen Mode
Before we dive into the technical aspects, it’s essential to understand the advantages of playing Oblivion in windowed fullscreen mode. This mode offers several benefits, including:
- Improved multitasking: With windowed fullscreen mode, you can easily switch between Oblivion and other applications, making it ideal for streaming, recording, or chatting with friends.
- Enhanced flexibility: Windowed fullscreen mode allows you to resize the game window, making it perfect for players with multiple monitors or those who prefer a specific aspect ratio.
- Reduced crashes: Some players have reported that windowed fullscreen mode reduces the likelihood of game crashes, as it eliminates the need for the game to take control of the entire screen.
Method 1: Using the Oblivion Configuration File
The first method to make Oblivion windowed fullscreen involves modifying the game’s configuration file. This approach is relatively straightforward and doesn’t require any external software.
Step 1: Locate the Oblivion Configuration File
To begin, you’ll need to find the Oblivion configuration file, which is usually located in the game’s installation directory. The default path is:
C:\Program Files\Bethesda Softworks\Oblivion
Look for the file named oblivion.ini and open it in a text editor, such as Notepad.
Step 2: Modify the Oblivion Configuration File
Once you’ve opened the oblivion.ini file, scroll down to the [Display] section and look for the following lines:
bFull Screen=1
iSize H=600
iSize W=800
Change the value of bFull Screen to 0, and adjust the iSize H and iSize W values to your desired resolution. For example:
bFull Screen=0
iSize H=1080
iSize W=1920
Save the changes and close the text editor.
Step 3: Launch Oblivion and Verify the Changes
Launch Oblivion and verify that the game is running in windowed fullscreen mode. You should be able to resize the game window and switch between applications seamlessly.
Method 2: Using the Oblivion Launcher
The second method involves using the Oblivion Launcher, which is a more user-friendly approach.
Step 1: Download and Install the Oblivion Launcher
Download the Oblivion Launcher from a reputable source, such as the official Bethesda Softworks website or a trusted modding community. Follow the installation instructions to install the launcher.
Step 2: Configure the Oblivion Launcher
Launch the Oblivion Launcher and navigate to the Settings tab. Look for the Display section and select the Windowed option. You can also adjust the resolution and other display settings to your liking.
Step 3: Launch Oblivion and Verify the Changes
Launch Oblivion through the launcher and verify that the game is running in windowed fullscreen mode.
Method 3: Using a Third-Party Tool
The third method involves using a third-party tool, such as the popular DSFix tool.
Step 1: Download and Install DSFix
Download the DSFix tool from a reputable source, such as the official website or a trusted modding community. Follow the installation instructions to install the tool.
Step 2: Configure DSFix
Launch DSFix and navigate to the Settings tab. Look for the Display section and select the Windowed option. You can also adjust the resolution and other display settings to your liking.
Step 3: Launch Oblivion and Verify the Changes
Launch Oblivion through DSFix and verify that the game is running in windowed fullscreen mode.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
While making Oblivion windowed fullscreen is relatively straightforward, you may encounter some common issues. Here are some troubleshooting tips to help you resolve these issues:
- Black screen or crash: If you experience a black screen or crash when launching Oblivion in windowed fullscreen mode, try adjusting the resolution or disabling any graphics mods.
- Incorrect aspect ratio: If the game window is not displaying the correct aspect ratio, try adjusting the
iSize HandiSize Wvalues in theoblivion.inifile. - Game window not resizable: If the game window is not resizable, try disabling any mods that may be interfering with the windowed fullscreen mode.
Conclusion
Making Oblivion windowed fullscreen is a simple process that can enhance your gaming experience. By following the methods outlined in this guide, you can enjoy a more flexible and immersive experience. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or a newcomer to the world of Oblivion, this guide has provided you with the knowledge and tools to unlock the ultimate gaming experience.
What is the difference between windowed and fullscreen modes in Oblivion?
The main difference between windowed and fullscreen modes in Oblivion is how the game interacts with your computer’s desktop. In fullscreen mode, the game takes over the entire screen, and you cannot see any other windows or icons. In windowed mode, the game runs in a window, allowing you to see other windows and icons on your desktop. However, windowed mode can be less immersive and may have performance issues.
Windowed fullscreen mode, on the other hand, offers a compromise between the two. It allows the game to run in a window, but the window is maximized to take up the entire screen, providing a more immersive experience. This mode is ideal for players who want to be able to alt-tab out of the game quickly or have other windows open on their desktop.
Why would I want to play Oblivion in windowed fullscreen mode?
There are several reasons why you might want to play Oblivion in windowed fullscreen mode. One reason is that it allows you to alt-tab out of the game quickly and easily, which can be useful if you need to check your email or respond to a message. Another reason is that it can help to reduce the risk of crashes, as the game is not taking over the entire screen.
Additionally, windowed fullscreen mode can be useful if you have a multi-monitor setup and want to be able to see other windows or icons on your other monitors while you play. It can also be helpful if you want to be able to take screenshots or record video of your gameplay, as you can use other software to capture the game window.
How do I make Oblivion run in windowed fullscreen mode?
To make Oblivion run in windowed fullscreen mode, you will need to edit the game’s configuration file. This file is usually located in the game’s installation directory, and it is called “oblivion.ini”. You will need to open this file in a text editor, such as Notepad, and add a line of code to the “[Display]” section.
The line of code you need to add is “bFull Screen=0”. This will tell the game to run in windowed mode instead of fullscreen mode. However, this will not make the game run in windowed fullscreen mode. To do that, you will need to add another line of code, “bBorderless=1”. This will make the game window maximized and borderless, giving you a fullscreen experience.
Will making Oblivion run in windowed fullscreen mode affect the game’s performance?
Making Oblivion run in windowed fullscreen mode should not have a significant impact on the game’s performance. However, it may depend on your computer’s hardware and the game’s settings. If you have a powerful computer and the game is set to high graphics settings, you may not notice any difference.
However, if you have a lower-end computer or the game is set to low graphics settings, you may notice a slight decrease in performance. This is because the game is running in a window, which can be slightly less efficient than running in fullscreen mode. However, the difference should be minimal, and you should still be able to enjoy a smooth gaming experience.
Can I use other software to make Oblivion run in windowed fullscreen mode?
Yes, there are other software options available that can make Oblivion run in windowed fullscreen mode. One popular option is a program called Borderless Gaming. This program allows you to run any game in windowed fullscreen mode, without having to edit the game’s configuration file.
Another option is a program called ShiftWindow. This program allows you to move and resize windows, including game windows. You can use it to make the Oblivion window maximized and borderless, giving you a fullscreen experience. However, these programs may not work with all games, and you may need to experiment with different settings to get them to work.
Will making Oblivion run in windowed fullscreen mode affect the game’s mods?
Making Oblivion run in windowed fullscreen mode should not affect the game’s mods. Mods are software add-ons that can be installed to modify or extend the game’s functionality. They are usually installed in a separate directory, and they do not affect the game’s configuration file.
However, some mods may not be compatible with windowed fullscreen mode. If you are using mods and you make the game run in windowed fullscreen mode, you may need to test the mods to make sure they are still working correctly. If you encounter any issues, you may need to disable the mods or seek help from the modding community.
Can I make Oblivion run in windowed fullscreen mode on a Mac or Linux computer?
Yes, you can make Oblivion run in windowed fullscreen mode on a Mac or Linux computer. However, the process may be slightly different than on a Windows computer. On a Mac, you can use a program called Wineskin to run the game in windowed fullscreen mode.
On a Linux computer, you can use a program called Wine to run the game in windowed fullscreen mode. You will need to install Wine and then configure it to run the game in windowed fullscreen mode. You may also need to install additional software or libraries to get the game to work correctly.