Recording gameplay on your Windows 11 PC is easier than you might think. By using built-in tools like Xbox Game Bar or third-party software, you can capture your epic gaming moments in no time. Follow this guide for a step-by-step tutorial on how to do it.
How to Record Gameplay on PC Windows 11
Recording gameplay on your Windows 11 PC is straightforward with these steps. We’ll be using the Xbox Game Bar, a built-in feature that makes capturing video a breeze.
Step 1: Open Xbox Game Bar
Press Win + G on your keyboard to open the Xbox Game Bar.
Once you press these keys, a game overlay will appear on your screen. If this is your first time using Xbox Game Bar, you might need to grant permissions for screen recording and audio capture.
Step 2: Click the Record Button
In the Xbox Game Bar overlay, click the record button (a circle icon) to start recording.
The record button is located in the Capture widget. If you don’t see the widget, you can add it by clicking the Widget Menu icon (four lines) and selecting Capture from the list.
Step 3: Start Playing Your Game
Switch back to your game and start playing while the Xbox Game Bar records in the background.
You can continue to play your game as you normally would. The Xbox Game Bar will record everything that happens on your screen until you stop the recording.
Step 4: Stop Recording
To stop recording, press Win + G again to bring up the Xbox Game Bar overlay and click the stop button (a square icon).
The video of your gameplay will be saved automatically. You can find your recordings in the Captures folder, which is located in the Videos directory on your PC.
Step 5: Review and Edit Your Recording
Navigate to the Captures folder to view and edit your recorded gameplay video.
You can use built-in Windows tools like the Photos app to make quick edits, or transfer your video to a more advanced video editing software if you need more features.
After completing these steps, your gameplay will be saved as a video file on your PC. From here, you can share it with friends, upload it to YouTube, or keep it for your own entertainment.
Tips for Recording Gameplay on PC Windows 11
- Check System Requirements: Ensure your PC meets the minimum requirements for both the game and the recording software.
- Optimize Settings: Adjust in-game settings and recording settings to balance performance and video quality.
- Use a Microphone: If you want to include voice commentary, make sure you have a good quality microphone.
- Monitor Storage Space: Keep an eye on your storage space to ensure you don’t run out of room while recording.
- Close Unnecessary Applications: Close other applications to free up system resources for smoother recording.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I access my gameplay recordings on Windows 11?
Your gameplay recordings are saved in the Captures folder, which is located in the Videos directory on your PC.
Can I record gameplay without the Xbox Game Bar?
Yes, you can use third-party software like OBS Studio or Fraps to record gameplay on Windows 11.
How do I enable the Xbox Game Bar on Windows 11?
Go to Settings > Gaming > Xbox Game Bar and toggle the switch to enable it.
Can I include my webcam in the recording?
Yes, the Xbox Game Bar allows you to include webcam footage by adding the Camera widget.
Is there a time limit for recording gameplay?
No, there is no specific time limit, but longer recordings will consume more storage space and system resources.
Summary
- Open Xbox Game Bar with
Win + G. - Click the record button.
- Start playing your game.
- Stop recording by pressing
Win + Gand clicking the stop button. - Review and edit your recording in the Captures folder.
Conclusion
Recording gameplay on PC Windows 11 is a simple and effective way to capture your best gaming moments. Whether you’re aiming to create content for YouTube, share your achievements with friends, or simply keep a record of your gaming experiences, the Xbox Game Bar provides an easy-to-use solution built right into the operating system.
Don’t forget to optimize your settings, check your system requirements, and manage your storage space to ensure the best recording experience. For more advanced features, you might consider exploring third-party recording software.
Now that you know how to record gameplay on PC Windows 11, go ahead and capture those epic moments in your favorite games. Happy gaming and recording!
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.