Fallout 4 has captivated gamers worldwide with its expansive open world and immersive storytelling. However, some players encounter a frustrating issue: the game not displaying in full screen. This problem can hinder your gameplay experience, making it difficult to enjoy all that the wasteland has to offer. In this extensive guide, we will delve into the causes behind Fallout 4’s failure to launch in full screen mode and provide you with effective solutions to resolve this issue.
Understanding the Full Screen Issue in Fallout 4
When you start Fallout 4, several display options come into play. Depending on your hardware, drivers, and settings, the game may struggle to run in full screen mode. Some players report that the game either launches in windowed mode or flickers when attempting to switch to full screen. Several factors contribute to these issues, from incorrect game settings to compatibility problems with your graphics card.
Common Causes Behind Fallout 4 Full Screen Glitches
Before diving into the solutions, it is essential to understand what might be causing the problem. Here are some common causes:
1. Graphics Driver Issues
Graphics drivers are paramount in ensuring that games run smoothly. An outdated or corrupted driver can lead to various display problems, including issues with full screen mode.
2. Incorrect Game Settings
Game settings can also play a crucial role. Launching Fallout 4 with certain configurations can inadvertently default to windowed mode, regardless of your preferences.
3. Monitor Settings
Sometimes, the problem lies in the monitor settings. An incorrect resolution or refresh rate can prevent Fallout 4 from switching to full screen.
4. Overlay Applications
Applications like Discord, Nvidia GeForce Experience, or other overlay tools can interfere with game settings, causing disruptions and display issues.
Step-by-Step Solutions to Fix Fallout 4 Full Screen Not Working
Now that we understand the potential causes, let’s explore solutions that may help you fix the full screen issue in Fallout 4.
Step 1: Update Your Graphics Drivers
Updating your graphics drivers is crucial. Here’s how to do it:
- Identify your graphics card manufacturer (Nvidia, AMD, or Intel).
- Go to the official website of your graphics card manufacturer.
- Download the latest driver compatible with your operating system.
- Install the driver and restart your computer.
Updating your drivers can resolve many display-related issues and enhance gaming performance.
Step 2: Adjust In-Game Settings
Another essential step is adjusting your in-game settings. Follow these instructions:
- Launch Fallout 4.
- Navigate to the “Options” menu in the main game menu.
- Select “Display.”
- Set the “Resolution” to match your monitor’s native resolution.
- Ensure the “Windowed Mode” option is set to “Full Screen.”
- Apply the changes and restart the game.
These adjustments can often resolve full screen issues.
Step 3: Modify .ini Files
Editing the Fallout 4 configuration files can be a useful workaround if other methods fail. Here’s how to do it:
Finding the Configuration Files
-
Navigate to the following directory:
Documents\My Games\Fallout4. -
Locate the Fallout4.ini file and open it with a text editor like Notepad.
Editing the Files
- Within the Fallout4.ini file, look for the following lines:
bFull Screen=0 bBorderless=1
- Change these values to:
bFull Screen=1 bBorderless=0
- Save the changes and close the text editor.
These modifications can help force the game into full screen mode.
Step 4: Check Your Monitor Settings
Sometimes, the monitor settings may need adjustments. Ensure you perform the following:
- Right-click on your desktop and select “Display settings.”
- Verify that your monitor is set to its native resolution.
- Check the refresh rate under the “Advanced display settings” section. Ensure it matches the settings supported by both your monitor and graphics card.
Proper monitor settings can have a significant impact on game performance and display.
Step 5: Disable Overlay Applications
Many players overlook overlay applications as a source of display issues. To disable them:
- Open the respective applications (e.g., Discord, Nvidia GeForce Experience).
- Find the overlay settings and disable any features that may interfere with game performance.
By removing these overlays, you may resolve any hindrances to game display.
Advanced Solutions for Persistent Issues
If the previous steps didn’t resolve the issue, consider trying some more advanced solutions.
Step 6: Use the Steam Launch Options
If you purchased Fallout 4 through Steam, using launch options can sometimes help. Here’s how:
- Open Steam and navigate to your Library.
- Right-click on Fallout 4 and select “Properties.”
- In the “General” tab, find the “Launch Options” field and add:
-fullscreen
- Close the Properties window and launch the game.
This command directly instructs the game to launch in full screen mode.
Step 7: Verify Game Files
Corrupted game files can also lead to issues. To verify the integrity of your game files:
- Open Steam and go to your Library.
- Right-click on Fallout 4 and select “Properties.”
- Go to the “Local Files” tab and click on “Verify Integrity of Game Files.”
Steam will scan for any corrupted files and replace them automatically, potentially resolving your full screen issues.
When All Else Fails: Reinstall Fallout 4
If none of the above solutions work, consider reinstalling the game. Sometimes, a clean installation can resolve persistent problems that other methods haven’t addressed.
- Back up your save files located in
Documents\My Games\Fallout4. - Uninstall Fallout 4 via Steam.
- Restart your computer.
- Reinstall Fallout 4 from Steam.
Always remember to back up your saves before taking such steps.
Conclusion
Experiencing full screen issues in Fallout 4 can be frustrating, especially when you’re eager to explore the vast post-apocalyptic world. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you should be well-equipped to troubleshoot and resolve the problem effectively.
Whether it’s updating drivers, adjusting settings, or verifying game files, taking these measures can significantly enhance your gaming experience. The key is to be patient and methodical in your approach. If all else fails, do not hesitate to reach out to the gaming community or the game’s support team for assistance. With a little perseverance, you’ll be back in the wasteland, ready to take on whatever challenges come your way!
What causes Fallout 4 full screen not to work?
The issue of Fallout 4 not entering full screen mode can arise from various sources, including graphics settings, display resolution mismatches, or corrupted game files. A common cause is the game running in windowed mode or borderless windowed mode due to changes in settings or updates. Additionally, if your monitor’s refresh rate or resolution isn’t correctly set in the game, it can lead to full screen not functioning as expected.
Another potential reason could be conflicting software that interferes with the game’s display settings, such as overlay applications or screen recording software. These applications may prevent the game from switching to full screen, causing it to stay in a windowed mode instead. Ensuring that all related applications are closed can help resolve the issue.
How can I enable full screen mode in Fallout 4?
To enable full screen mode in Fallout 4, you first need to access the game’s settings menu. Launch the game and navigate to the Options menu, then select the Display settings. Here, you will find the Display Mode option, where you can switch from Windowed or Borderless to Full Screen. After making the adjustment, remember to save the changes before exiting the menu.
If the full screen mode is still not working after applying the setting, consider adjusting your desktop resolution to match the in-game resolution. It’s advisable to set both to the same values to ensure compatibility and prevent any potential issues. Restarting the game after these adjustments can help solidify the changes made in the display settings.
What should I do if changing the settings doesn’t work?
If changing the display settings does not resolve the full screen issue, the next step is to verify the integrity of the game files. This can be done through the game launcher or the Steam platform by right-clicking on Fallout 4 in your library, selecting Properties, and then choosing the Local Files tab. From here, select ‘Verify Integrity of Game Files.’ This process will check for any corrupted or missing files and replace them automatically.
After verifying the game files, consider updating your graphics card drivers, as outdated drivers might cause compatibility issues with the game. Visit the official website of your graphics card manufacturer to download and install the latest drivers. Once the update is complete, restart your computer and launch Fallout 4 again to see if the full screen problem has been resolved.
Are there any specific software that I should close to fix this issue?
Yes, certain background applications can interfere with Fallout 4’s ability to run in full screen mode. Common culprits include overlay programs like Discord, NVIDIA GeForce Experience, and any screen recording software, such as OBS or Fraps. Closing these applications can help eliminate conflicts that prevent the game from properly utilizing full screen mode.
Additionally, check for any other software that might alter display settings or overlays, such as custom desktop managers or third-party utility tools. By closing these programs before launching the game, you can potentially reduce the chances of encountering display issues and ensure a smoother gaming experience.
What settings should I check if I have multiple monitors?
When using multiple monitors, it’s essential to ensure that Fallout 4 is launched on the primary display, as multi-monitor setups can cause issues with full screen mode. You can specify which monitor is your primary in your computer’s display settings, typically found by right-clicking on the desktop and selecting Display Settings. Once you have designated your primary monitor, restart the game to see if it allows full screen.
Another aspect to consider is the arrangement of your monitors. Make sure that the resolution and refresh rate of your primary monitor are consistent with what is set in Fallout 4. Mismatched display settings can lead to complications. Adjusting these settings within Windows and the game should minimize any issues related to multiple displays.
How can I fix Fallout 4’s full screen using the configuration file?
Editing the configuration file can be an effective solution for resolving full screen issues in Fallout 4. Start by navigating to the Fallout 4 folder located in your Documents directory, and look for the Fallout4.ini file. Open this file with a text editor such as Notepad. Look for the [Display] section and locate the line that reads “bFull Screen=0.” Change this value from 0 to 1 to enable full screen mode.
After making this change, save the file and exit the text editor. Additionally, you might want to check other relevant settings in the configuration file, like resolution settings, to ensure everything is aligned with your monitor’s capabilities. Restart the game after making these changes and see if the full screen mode is functioning correctly.
Can I use mods to fix the full screen issue in Fallout 4?
Yes, using mods can sometimes help resolve full screen issues in Fallout 4, particularly if they are designed to enhance the game’s graphical performance or fix bugs. Popular mods like the Fallout 4 Patch can address various issues, including display problems, by ensuring that the game runs with optimal settings. Always make sure to read user feedback and installation instructions carefully when choosing mods to ensure compatibility.
However, keep in mind that using mods can introduce new issues if not managed correctly. It is recommended to backup your game files and save before implementing any mods. If you encounter further problems, you can disable the mods and try launching the game in its original form to see if the full screen issue persists.