Are you a fan of using Steam’s Big Picture mode for a more immersive gaming experience, but finding that it’s not working as expected? Don’t worry, you’re not alone.
Many gamers encounter issues with Steam’s Big Picture mode, but the good news is that there are solutions available to get it up and running smoothly again.
In this blog, we’ll explore some troubleshooting steps and fixes to help you resolve the issue and get back to enjoying your favorite games in Big Picture mode, clear steam’s cache data. Additionally, you can
How To Fix Steam Big Picture Mode Not Working?
To fix Steam big picture mode not working, you can run Steam as an administrator, enable big picture mode on startup, and clear Steam’s cache data. Additionally, you can update the graphics driver to fix the issue.
1. Run Steam As An Administrator
Sometimes, Steam requires administrative privileges to perform certain tasks or to make changes to your system that are necessary for Big Picture mode to function properly. Here’s how you can run Steam with administrative rights:
- Close Steam if it’s currently running.
- Navigate to the location where Steam is installed (usually C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam).
- Right-click on Steam.exe and select “Properties.”
- Click on the “Compatibility” tab.
- Check the box that says “Run this program as an administrator.”
- Click “Apply,” then “OK.”
- Double-click Steam.exe to run Steam with administrative privileges.
- Try to open Big Picture mode.
2. Enable Big Picture Mode On Startup
Big Picture mode offers a console-like experience that can be set to start automatically.
For Windows:
- Open Steam.
- Click “Steam” > “Settings.”
- Go to “Interface.”
- Check “Start Steam in Big Picture Mode.”
- Click “OK.”
- Exit and restart Steam.
For Mac:
- Open Steam.
- Click “Steam” > “Preferences.”
- Go to “Interface.”
- Check “Start Steam in Big Picture Mode.”
- Click “OK.”
- Quit and restart Steam.
3. Clear Steam’s Cache Data
Over time, Steam accumulates cache data that can sometimes interfere with its functionality. Clearing this cache can resolve issues with Big Picture mode not launching correctly
For Windows:
- Open Steam.
- Go to “Steam” > “Settings.”
- Select “Downloads.”
- Click “Clear Download Cache.”
- Confirm with “OK.”
- Log in again.
For Mac:
- Open Steam.
- Go to “Steam” > “Preferences.”
- Select “Downloads.”
- Click “Clear Download Cache.”
- Confirm with “OK.”
- Log in again.
4. Update Graphics Drivers
Big Picture mode is a graphics-intensive feature that relies on your computer’s GPU. Ensuring that your graphics drivers are up to date is crucial for the mode to run smoothly
- Open “Device Manager”
- Expand “Display adapters” to see GPU model.
- Visit your GPU manufacturer’s website (NVIDIA, AMD, Intel).
- Locate the drivers/support section.
- Enter GPU model and OS to find the driver.
- Download and install the driver.
- Restart your computer.
5. Check Steam Client Beta Participation
Participating in the Steam Client Beta program can offer early access to new features, but it can also introduce new bugs or compatibility issues with features like Big Picture mode
For Windows:
- Open Steam.
- Select “Steam” > “Settings.”
- Click “Account” > “Change…” under Beta participation.
- Choose “NONE – Opt out of all beta programs.“
- Hit “OK” and restart Steam.
For Mac:
- Open Steam.
- Choose “Steam” > “Preferences.”
- Click “Account” > “Change…” under Beta participation.
- Select “NONE – Opt out of all beta programs.”
- Click “OK” and restart Steam.
6. Uninstall And Reinstall Steam
When all else fails, a fresh install of Steam can sometimes be the best solution. This can clear up any corrupt files or settings that may be causing issues with Big Picture mode
For Windows:
Uninstall Steam from the Control Panel, reboot, then download and reinstall from Steam website.
Now, login, and test Big Picture mode.
For Mac:
Delete Steam from Applications, reboot, download from the Steam website, and reinstall.
Now, log in, and check Big Picture mode.
7. Contact Steam Support
If you’ve exhausted all other troubleshooting steps and Big Picture mode is still not functioning, it’s time to reach out to the experts for help
- Visit Steam Support, login, and select your issue.
- Choose “Steam” > the Big Picture mode issue, then submit your request with details of prior troubleshooting steps.