Revamp Your Game Library: A Comprehensive Guide to Changing Non-Steam Game Icons
Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.
- Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
- Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
- Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.
- Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
- Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
- Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.
So, you’ve got a fantastic collection of non-Steam games filling up your hard drive. But staring at those generic, default icons on your desktop or in your Steam library just isn’t cutting it, is it? You want to inject some personality, some flair, some YOU into your gaming experience. Well, you’ve come to the right place! This guide will walk you through the process of changing those lackluster icons into eye-catching works of art.
The Quick Answer: How to Change a Non-Steam Game Icon
The method for changing a game icon depends on where you want to change it: on your desktop, on your taskbar, or within your Steam library. Let’s break down each scenario:
Changing the Desktop Icon
- Right-click on the game’s desktop icon.
- Select “Properties” from the context menu.
- Click on the “Shortcut” tab (if it’s available; some shortcuts might lack this).
- Click the “Change Icon…” button.
- Browse to the location of your desired .ico file (or a .exe or .dll containing icons).
- Select the icon you want to use.
- Click “OK” on both the “Change Icon” window and the “Properties” window.
Changing the Taskbar Icon
Changing the taskbar icon requires a slightly different approach because Windows pins the original executable, not necessarily the shortcut.
- Unpin the game from your taskbar (if it’s already pinned).
- Follow the steps above to change the desktop icon.
- Pin the newly modified desktop icon to the taskbar. The taskbar icon should now reflect the change.
- If the above steps failed, hold SHIFT and right-click the program’s icon on the taskbar. Click Properties, go to the Shortcut tab, and click Change Icon. Choose an icon from the list or browse for another icon file.
- Click OK to save the changes.
Changing the Icon in Steam
Changing the icon within your Steam library applies only to games you’ve added as “Non-Steam Games.”
- Find the Game in your library.
- Right-click on the game in your Steam library.
- Select Properties.
- Next to the game title and near the existing icon, click the icon to change the game icon.
- Click “Change artwork…” and choose from the file.
Dive Deeper: Understanding Icon Files and Creation
Before you dive in, it’s essential to understand a few things about icon files. The ideal format is .ico, a dedicated icon format that can contain multiple resolutions of the same icon, ensuring it looks crisp at different sizes. You can find free icon packs online or even create your own using icon editing software. Programs like GIMP or specialized icon editors can help you create your own custom icons.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What file types can I use for a game icon?
Ideally, you should use .ico files. However, Windows also allows you to extract icons from .exe (executable) and .dll (dynamic link library) files. If you’re using Steam, using .png files are acceptable for header and logo images.
2. How do I create my own .ico file?
You’ll need dedicated icon editing software. Some popular options include:
- IcoFX: A powerful and feature-rich icon editor (paid).
- Greenfish Icon Editor Pro: A free and capable icon editor.
- GIMP with the ICO plugin: A free and open-source image editor that can be extended to support .ico files.
3. Where can I find free icon packs?
Numerous websites offer free icon packs. Some popular sources include:
- IconArchive: A vast library of free icons.
- Flaticon: Offers a wide range of icons, including free and premium options.
- The Noun Project: Focuses on simple, minimalist icons.
4. Why doesn’t the “Change Icon…” button appear in the Shortcut tab?
This usually happens if you’re not dealing with a proper shortcut or if the game is installed in a way that doesn’t create a standard shortcut. Try creating a new shortcut manually by right-clicking on the game’s executable file and selecting “Create shortcut.”
5. The icon changed, but it looks blurry or pixelated. Why?
This is likely due to the icon’s resolution being too low. Make sure your .ico file contains multiple resolutions, including larger sizes (e.g., 256×256 or higher).
6. How do I add a non-Steam game to Steam?
Go to Games > Add a Non-Steam Game to My Library and choose the game you want to add. If it’s not listed, click Browse and find the game’s executable file (.exe). Click Add Selected Programs, and the game will be listed in your Steam library.
7. How do I add custom artwork (header, logo) to a non-Steam game in Steam?
In your Steam library, click the non-Steam game. On the game page, right-click the blank header image to see the available options:
- Set Custom Background: To add a custom hero image.
- Set Custom Logo: To add a logo to your game.
8. How can I enable Steam Input for a non-Steam game?
Steam Input usually works automatically for most games added to Steam. However, you can force it by right-clicking the game in your Steam library, going to Properties, and then the Controller tab. From there, you can select “Enable Steam Input” or adjust the controller configuration.
9. Why is Steam Big Picture mode running poorly (low FPS)?
The new Big Picture interface can sometimes suffer from performance issues. Try minimizing the window size or updating your graphics drivers. Some users have reported that reverting to the old Big Picture mode resolves performance problems, which can be done temporarily by interacting with the window menu options(“Steam”, “View”, etc.”) and then press Alt + Enter.
10. Does adding a non-Steam game give me Steam achievements or cloud saves?
No. Adding a non-Steam game only creates a shortcut within your Steam library. It doesn’t grant access to Steam achievements, cloud saves, or other Steam-specific features.
11. How do I change the game icon on my taskbar?
First, unpin the existing icon. Then, change the desktop icon as described above and re-pin it to the taskbar. If that doesn’t work, hold SHIFT and right-click the icon on the taskbar, select Properties, go to the Shortcut tab, and change the icon from there.
12. Can Steam detect if I have pirated games added as non-Steam games?
No. Steam does not actively scan your computer for pirated games. It only manages the games you’ve purchased through the Steam platform. Adding a pirated game as a non-Steam game won’t trigger any action from Steam. However, using pirated software is generally illegal and unethical.
13. What is Steam Overlay, and does it work with non-Steam games?
The Steam Overlay is an in-game interface that provides access to Steam features like friends list, chat, web browser, and settings. It usually works with non-Steam games, but it’s not guaranteed. To enable it, make sure the Steam Overlay is enabled globally in Steam settings and that the game is added as a non-Steam game.
14. Is there a shortcut to quickly switch between old and new Steam Big Picture modes?
Yes, interact with the window menu options(“Steam”, “View”, etc.”) and then press Alt + Enter. This allows you to switch between old and new modes.
15. Where can I learn more about game design and the power of games in education?
Explore the world of game-based learning and its impact on education by visiting the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org. This is a community that explores how games are transforming the way we learn and think about education. Join the community by visiting the website: https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/.
Conclusion
Customizing your game icons is a simple but satisfying way to personalize your gaming experience. By following these steps and understanding the nuances of icon files and Steam integration, you can transform your game library into a visually appealing and organized collection. Happy gaming!