If you’re dealing with a cluttered laptop, you’re not alone. PC games can take up a lot of space. This can slow down your laptop.
Dealing with unwanted games can be frustrating. They use up space you need. In this article, I’ll show you how to permanently delete games from your laptop. This will free up space and might make your laptop run better.
By the end of this article, you’ll know how to get rid of unwanted games. This will help your laptop run more smoothly.
Key Takeaways
- Understand why deleting games from your laptop is important.
- Learn the steps to permanently delete games from your PC.
- Discover how to free up storage space and improve your laptop’s performance.
- Identify the benefits of regularly cleaning up unwanted games.
- Know the best practices for maintaining your laptop’s storage.
Why You Might Need to Delete Games from Your Laptop
Deleting games from your laptop can solve storage and performance problems. Laptops can quickly run out of space, even with just a few big games.
Storage Space Issues on Modern Laptops
Today’s games need over 100GB of storage space. They have high-resolution graphics and detailed worlds. This makes storage a big issue.
If you’re low on storage, removing games can make room for other files or apps.
Performance Concerns for Indian Users
For Indian users, laptop performance is key, even with limited RAM or power. Uninstalling unused games can improve your laptop’s performance. It reduces clutter and frees up resources.
Removing Distractions for Productivity
Deleting games can also help you stay on task. By removing games that distract you, you can
Before You Start: Backing Up Game Data
Backing up your game data is a key step before you delete game files on laptop. It helps prevent losing your progress or settings.
It’s important to save your game progress and profiles. Many games let you export your progress or save files to an external drive or cloud storage. For example, Fortnite and PUBG offer ways to save your progress. You can also find save files on your laptop manually.
Saving Game Progress and Profiles
To save your game progress, check the game’s settings or documentation. Some games save files in the “Documents” folder, while others use “AppData”. You can copy these files to a safe spot.
Exporting Game Settings and Configurations
Some games let you export settings and configurations. This is helpful if you plan to reinstall the game later. You can also write down your settings manually.
| Game | Save File Location | Export Settings |
|---|---|---|
| Fortnite | C:\Users\Username\Documents\Fortnite | Yes |
| PUBG | C:\Users\Username\AppData\Local\PUBG | No |
How to Delete Games in Laptop Using Windows Uninstaller
Removing unwanted games from your laptop is easy with Windows.
Uninstalling games frees up space and boosts your laptop’s performance. You can use the Windows uninstaller, found in the Control Panel or Settings app.
Using Control Panel to Uninstall Games
The Control Panel is a classic way to remove programs, including games, from your Windows laptop.
Step-by-Step Process
To uninstall a game, start by opening the Control Panel. Search for “Control Panel” in the Start menu. Then, go to “Programs and Features” or “Uninstall a program.”
Look for the game you want to remove. Click on it and choose “Uninstall.” Follow the instructions to finish uninstalling.
Verifying Complete Removal
After uninstalling, check if the game is fully removed. Look in “Program Files” or “Program Files (x86)” for the game’s folder. Also, check for any remaining shortcuts on your desktop or Start menu.
Using Settings App for Game Removal
Windows 10 and later versions let you uninstall games through the Settings app.
Finding Games in Apps & Features
To uninstall a game in the Settings app, open Settings. Go to “Apps.” Look for “Apps & features” and search for the game you want to remove.
Uninstallation Process
Once you find the game, click on it. You’ll see an “Uninstall” button. Click it to start the uninstallation. Follow any instructions to complete the removal.
Troubleshooting Common Uninstallation Issues
Sometimes, uninstalling games can go wrong, leading to errors or incomplete removal.
If uninstalling fails, try restarting your laptop and try again. If it doesn’t work, you might need a third-party uninstaller or help from the game’s support team.
Also, make sure no other programs are running in the background. They might be using the game files and prevent uninstallation.
Removing Games Installed Through Popular Launchers
Launchers like Steam, Epic Games, and Origin make it easy to uninstall games. They let you buy and download games and manage them. This includes removing them when you need to.
Uninstalling Steam Games
To uninstall a game from Steam, follow these steps:
- Open the Steam client and go to your Library.
- Right-click on the game you wish to uninstall.
- Select “Manage” and then “Uninstall.”
- Confirm the uninstallation when prompted.
Through Steam Library
You can also uninstall games from your Steam Library. Click on the game, then “Manage,” and choose “Uninstall.”
Managing Multiple Installations
If you have games installed on different drives, make sure to pick the right one to uninstall.
Removing Epic Games Launcher Games
To remove a game from the Epic Games Launcher:
- Open the Epic Games Launcher.
- Go to the “Library” tab.
- Click on the three dots next to the game you want to uninstall.
- Select “Uninstall” and follow the prompts.
Using the Epic Games Interface
The Epic Games Launcher has a simple interface for managing your games. This includes uninstalling them.
Handling Linked Accounts
If your Epic Games account is linked to other services, be aware of any effects on saved data or achievements when uninstalling a game.
Deleting Games from Origin and EA App
To uninstall games from Origin and EA App, do the following:
- Open the Origin or EA App client.
- Go to your game library.
- Right-click on the game and select “Uninstall.”
Uninstalling Games from Other Popular Launchers in India
Launchers like GOG Galaxy and Ubisoft Connect also make uninstalling games easy. Just open the launcher, go to your library, and right-click or use an options menu to uninstall.
By following these steps, you can easily manage and remove games. This helps you free up valuable space and keep your laptop organized.
Manually Deleting Game Files and Folders
To remove a game completely, you must delete its files and folders yourself. This is key to making sure your laptop has no leftover game data. Such data can take up a lot of space.
Finding Game Installation Directories
To delete game files, first find where they are on your laptop.
Finding Game Installation Directories
Most games are in the “Program Files” or “Program Files (x86)” folder. You might also find them in the “Games” folder or somewhere else you chose during setup.
Using Search Functions
Windows Search can help find game files and folders. Just type the game’s name in the search bar. Windows will then show you where the files are.
Removing Leftover Files After Uninstallation
After uninstalling a game, you need to get rid of any leftover files. This will help free up space.
- Check the “AppData” folder for game-related data.
- Look for game files in the “Documents” folder.
- Empty the Recycle Bin to permanently delete files.
Using Disk Cleanup Tools for Game Remnants
Disk Cleanup tools can get rid of temporary files and other game data.
| Tool | Description | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Disk Cleanup | Built-in Windows tool | Frees up disk space |
| CCleaner | Third-party software | Removes temporary files and registry entries |
By following these steps, you can make sure your laptop is clean of game files and folders. This will free up valuable space.
Cleaning Registry Entries After Game Removal
To keep your laptop running well after you remove games, cleaning the registry is key. When you uninstall a game, not all files and registry entries are deleted. This can slow down your system.
Understanding Game Registry Entries
Game registry entries are settings and configurations in the Windows Registry. They include game preferences, user data, and other settings. Failing to remove these entries can cause clutter and system problems.
Using Registry Cleaners Safely on Indian Laptops
To safely clean registry entries, use trusted registry cleaner tools. Be cautious when picking a registry cleaner. Some can harm your system. Look for software that is specifically designed for Windows and has positive reviews.
- Choose a registry cleaner that is compatible with your Windows version.
- Backup your registry before making any changes.
- Regularly update your registry cleaner to ensure you have the latest features and security patches.
By following these steps, you can effectively remove game registry entries and keep your laptop running smoothly.
Using Third-Party Uninstaller Software for Complete Removal
Third-party uninstaller software is often better at removing games from laptops. These tools are made to delete not just the game files but also registry entries and temporary files. Standard uninstallers might miss these.
Choosing the right software is key when uninstalling games. In India, you can find many good third-party uninstallers. Revo Uninstaller, IObit Uninstaller, and Ashampoo UnInstaller are some of the most popular.
Popular Uninstaller Tools Available in India
These tools have advanced features for a complete game removal. For example, Revo Uninstaller scans for leftover files and registry entries. IObit Uninstaller is known for its easy-to-use interface and strong scanning.
| Uninstaller Tool | Key Features | User Interface |
|---|---|---|
| Revo Uninstaller | Advanced scanning for leftover files and registry entries | User-friendly |
| IObit Uninstaller | Powerful scanning, user-friendly interface | Simple and intuitive |
| Ashampoo UnInstaller | Comprehensive removal of games and applications | Feature-rich |
Benefits of Specialized Uninstallers for Large Games
Specialized uninstallers are great for big games. These games have lots of extra content like DLCs and patches. It’s hard to remove everything with standard methods. But, these uninstallers make it easier.
For example, “Assassin’s Creed Odyssey” has many DLCs and patches. A specialized uninstaller can make removing it simpler.
Using third-party uninstaller software makes removing games more efficient. It helps keep your laptop organized and free of clutter.
Freeing Up Additional Space After Game Removal
Removing games is just the start to get your laptop’s storage back. After you’ve gotten rid of unwanted games, there are more steps to free up space. These steps will help your laptop run smoothly.
Removing Temporary Files and Downloads
Temporary files and downloads take up a lot of space. Use the Disk Cleanup tool or delete files from your Downloads folder manually. This simple action can help you regain valuable storage space.
Clearing Game Caches and Saved Data
Games often keep cache and saved data even after you uninstall them. You can clear these files by searching for game-related files or using a registry cleaner. But, be careful not to delete important data.
Deleting Unused DLC and Expansion Content
If you bought DLC or expansion packs for games you uninstalled, they might be taking up space. Look for any remaining DLC or expansion content on your laptop. Delete it if you don’t need it anymore.
| Action | Method | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Remove Temporary Files | Disk Cleanup Tool or Manual Deletion | Frees up space occupied by unnecessary files |
| Clear Game Caches | Manual Deletion or Registry Cleaner | Removes leftover game data |
| Delete Unused DLC | Manual Deletion | Removes unnecessary game content |
Preventing Accidental Game Reinstallation
After deleting games from your laptop, it’s key to stop them from reinstalling by accident. You need to manage settings that might cause games to reinstall on their own.
Managing Auto-Updates and Downloads
Auto-updates can lead to games reinstalling. To stop this, check your game launchers’ settings. Turn off auto-updates for games you’ve deleted. Also, watch out for settings that might download games by mistake.
- Open your game launcher and go to settings.
- Look for auto-update or download settings.
- Disable auto-updates for uninstalled games.
Controlling Cloud Synchronization
Cloud syncing can also reinstall games. Check your cloud settings, linked to your games, to avoid auto-downloads or reinstallation. For instance, Steam lets you manage cloud syncing in its settings.
“Managing cloud synchronization is key to stop unwanted game reinstallation.”
By adjusting these settings, you can stop games from reinstalling by accident. This keeps your laptop tidy and organized.
Conclusion
By following the easy steps to delete games from your laptop, you can free up storage space. This makes your laptop run better and faster. It also helps keep your device clean and organized.
We’ve covered several ways to remove games, like using Windows Uninstaller and deleting game files manually. We also talked about cleaning up registry entries and using third-party software for a complete uninstall.
Now, your laptop should be clutter-free and have more storage space. By following these steps, you can keep your laptop running smoothly and efficiently.