How to Uninstall a Game That Won’t Uninstall: A Comprehensive Guide

So, you’ve got a digital gremlin on your hands – a game that refuses to leave your system peacefully. Don’t fret! This is a common problem, and there are several tried-and-true methods to exorcise that stubborn software. The core approach involves escalating measures, starting with the simplest and moving towards more forceful techniques. Here’s the lowdown:

1. The Standard Uninstall: Always begin with the built-in uninstallers.
   • Windows: Go to Settings > Apps > Apps & features. Locate the game, click on it, and select “Uninstall”. Follow the on-screen prompts. Sometimes, a dedicated uninstaller is located within the game’s installation folder (often found in Program Files or Program Files (x86)).
   • Android: Go to Settings > Apps & notifications > See all apps. Tap the app, and select “Uninstall”. Alternatively, long-press the app icon on your home screen or app drawer and drag it to the “Uninstall” option (if available).
2. Control Panel to the Rescue: If the Settings app fails, try the classic Control Panel. Search for “Control Panel” in the Windows search bar, open it, and navigate to Programs > Programs and Features. Find the game and click “Uninstall/Change”.
3. Third-Party Uninstallers: The Heavy Hitters: When the standard methods fail, it’s time to call in the professionals. Revo Uninstaller, IOBit Uninstaller, and GeekUninstaller are excellent tools. These uninstallers not only remove the main program files but also scan for and delete residual files, registry entries, and associated data that can clutter your system. The paid versions usually offer more aggressive scanning and forced uninstall options. These applications are specifically designed to not only uninstall programs but also remove residual files and registry entries left by the program.
4. The Program’s Own Uninstaller: Many games come with their own dedicated uninstaller program, usually located in the game’s installation directory. Navigate to the directory (e.g., C:Program FilesGameName) and look for an executable file named “uninstall.exe” or something similar. Run it.
5. Microsoft’s Install and Uninstall Troubleshooter: Microsoft provides a troubleshooter specifically designed to fix problems that prevent programs from being installed or uninstalled. Download and run this tool. It can automatically detect and fix common issues.
6. Forced Uninstall (Use with Caution!): If all else fails, some third-party uninstallers offer a “forced uninstall” option. This should be used as a last resort, as it can potentially remove files that are not directly related to the game. This may cause other programs to stop working.
7. Safe Mode: Sometimes, other programs or processes interfere with the uninstallation process. Restart your computer in Safe Mode. In Safe Mode, only essential Windows services and drivers are loaded, reducing the chances of conflicts. Then, try uninstalling the game using one of the methods above. At the sign-in screen, hold down the Shift key while selecting Power > Restart. After the PC restarts to the Choose an option screen, select Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup Settings > Restart. After the PC restarts, there is a list of options. Select 4 or F4 to start the PC in Safe Mode.
8. Registry Editing (Advanced Users Only!): This is a risky procedure and should only be attempted by experienced users. Incorrectly editing the registry can cause serious system problems. Before proceeding, back up your registry!
   • Open the Registry Editor (regedit).
   • Search for the game’s name in the registry (Edit > Find).
   • Carefully delete any keys and values associated with the game.
   • Be extremely cautious and only delete entries you are sure are related to the game.
9. Take Ownership and Delete Manually: If you can’t delete the game’s folder, you may need to take ownership of the folder and its contents.
   • Right-click on the game’s folder and select “Properties”.
   • Go to the “Security” tab and click “Advanced”.
   • Click “Change” next to “Owner” and enter your username. Click “OK”.
   • Check the box that says “Replace owner on subcontainers and objects” and click “Apply”.
   • Grant yourself full control permissions.
   • Now you should be able to delete the folder.
10. System Restore: As a last resort, you can try performing a system restore to a point before the game was installed. This will revert your system to a previous state, effectively removing the game. Open Control Panel and search for Recovery, and then click System Restore.

Remember to restart your computer after each attempt, especially after using a third-party uninstaller or editing the registry. Patience and persistence are key!

FAQs: Uninstalling Troubles & Solutions

Here are some frequently asked questions to further assist you in tackling uninstall challenges.

Why can’t I uninstall this game?

Several reasons can cause uninstallation issues: The game may be running in the background (check Task Manager), the installation is corrupted, you lack administrator privileges, another program is interfering with the process, or the uninstaller itself is damaged. Bloatware is an issue that millions of phones are affected by. That’s the collective name for the (usually superfluous) software that carriers and manufacturers like to pre-load on their devices. In most cases, these apps can’t be uninstalled as they’re labeled as part of the operating system.

How do I force a program to uninstall if the uninstaller doesn’t work?

Third-party uninstallers like Revo Uninstaller Pro offer a “forced uninstall” feature. This method aggressively removes files and registry entries associated with the game, even if the standard uninstaller fails. However, use this as a last resort due to potential system instability. Uninstall from the Control Panel (for programs) In the search box on the taskbar, type Control Panel and select it from the results. Select Programs > Programs and Features. Press and hold (or right-click) on the program you want to remove and select Uninstall or Uninstall/Change.

Does uninstalling a game delete all its files?

Ideally, yes, uninstalling a game should remove all its files. However, some games leave behind residual files, temporary data, saved games, or registry entries. This is why using a third-party uninstaller is often recommended, as they are designed to remove these leftover remnants. When you uninstall a game, some of its files and data might still remain on your device, which can take up valuable storage space. This often happens because the game leaves behind temporary or cache files, system files, or configuration files that are necessary for the proper functioning of your device.

Can I uninstall system apps on Android without rooting?

Generally, no. System apps are essential for the Android operating system’s functionality, and they cannot be uninstalled without rooting the device. Rooting grants you administrative access to the system, allowing you to remove these apps, but it also voids your warranty and poses security risks. As a word of warning, uninstalling system apps has the potential to break the system, so only uninstall the apps that you are sure of.

How do I uninstall a game on Steam?

In your Steam library, right-click on the game and select Manage > Uninstall. Steam will then remove the game files from your computer. Verify game files if the uninstall fails. This ensures that no required file is missing, and that all game files are present and not corrupted.

How do I uninstall a game on Origin?

In the Origin client, right-click on the game and select Uninstall. Origin will then remove the game files from your computer.

How do I uninstall a game on Epic Games Launcher?

In the Epic Games Launcher library, click the three dots next to the game and select Uninstall. The launcher will then remove the game files from your computer.

Is it safe to use third-party uninstallers?

Reputable third-party uninstallers like Revo Uninstaller, IObit Uninstaller, and GeekUninstaller are generally safe to use. However, always download them from their official websites to avoid downloading malware or bundled software. Be cautious when granting them permissions, and always read the on-screen prompts carefully.

How do I delete a corrupted program’s files?

If a program is corrupted, it may not uninstall properly. In this case, you can try deleting the program’s folder manually (after taking ownership if necessary). You can also use a third-party uninstaller’s “forced uninstall” feature to remove any remaining files and registry entries.

Does deleting an app from the App Store uninstall it from my device?

No. Deleting an app from the App Store only removes it from your purchase history. To uninstall it from your iPhone, tap and hold the app icon until it jiggles, then tap the “x” and select “Delete”.

How can I permanently delete games from the Play Games app?

Open the Play Games app, go to Settings > Delete Play Games account & data. Under “Delete individual game data,” find the game and tap Delete. On your Android phone or tablet, open the Play Games app. At the top of the screen, tap More. Settings. Tap Delete Play Games account & data. Under “Delete individual game data,” find the game data you want to remove and tap Delete.

What is bloatware, and why can’t I uninstall it?

Bloatware refers to pre-installed apps on your device that you may not want or need. These apps are often installed by the manufacturer or carrier and may not be easily uninstalled because they are considered part of the operating system.

Can I reinstall a deleted app without paying again?

Yes. You can use apps you bought on Google Play on any Android device without the need to pay again. Each device must be signed in to the same Google Account. You can also reinstall an app you bought but deleted. Also, if you turn off an app that comes with your device, you can turn it back on.

How do I find unnecessary programs on my computer?

Go to your Control Panel in Windows, click on Programs and then on Programs and Features. You’ll see a list of everything that’s installed on your machine. Go through that list, and ask yourself: do I really need this program?

Will uninstalling a game free up storage space?

Yes, uninstalling a game will free up storage space by removing the game files from your device. However, some residual files may remain, so using a third-party uninstaller can help to maximize the space freed up.

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