Difference between revisions of "Games for Windows - LIVE"
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− | ''' | + | {{Introduction |
+ | |introduction = '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''', often also referred to as '''GFWL''', is an online gaming service and was also a storefront developed by [[Company:Microsoft|Microsoft]]. | ||
+ | Together with distributing games under both the ''GFWL'' and less-restrictive ''[[Wikipedia:Games for Windows|Games for Windows]]''<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20100213120112/http://www.microsoft.com/games/en-US/aboutGFW/pages/forpublishers.aspx For Publishers | Games for Windows]</ref> branding through the ''Marketplace'' client, '''Games for Windows - LIVE''' also offers distinguishable features such as Xbox LIVE achievements, social networking and in some cases, cross-platform multiplayer with [[Wikipedia:Xbox 360|Xbox 360]] consoles. | ||
+ | |||
+ | Games distributed through the ''Marketplace'' were usually protected with its' own DRM, with all '''GFWL''' releases also requiring activation through a [[#DRM|product key]]. Note that most games used additional third-party DRM such as [[SecuROM]]. Some '''GFWL''' games have also been released on [[Steam]], see the [[The Big List of 3rd Party DRM on Steam#Games for Windows Live|Big List of 3rd Party DRM on Steam]] for exact information. | ||
+ | |||
+ | |release history = Games for Windows - LIVE was officially launched on May 29th, 2007 with [[Shadowrun]] releasing on Windows PCs. | ||
+ | |||
+ | |current state = With the ''Marketplace'' client's official closure on August 25th, 2013,<ref name="Marketplace-Closing">[https://web.archive.org/web/20130826071447/http://support.xbox.com:80/en-US/games/pc-games/pc-marketplace-closing Wayback Machine: PC Marketplace closing | PC Marketplace - Xbox.com]</ref> multiple publishers and developers have, over time, removed the '''GFWL''' service entirely from their games on digital distribution platforms and future retail releases,<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131103151106/http://www.destructoid.com/batman-arkham-games-drop-games-for-windows-live-263745.phtml|title=Batman: Arkham games drop Games for Windows Live - Destructoid|date=2023-09-27}}</ref><ref>{{Refurl|url=https://store.steampowered.com/news/app/22300/view/3056247583169814761|title=Fallout 3 - Update 1.7.0.4 on Steam News|date=2023-09-27}}</ref> although the ''Marketplace'' client was supposed to allow downloading existing purchases after the closure, it has degraded steadily since 2018<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://steamcommunity.com/app/105400/discussions/0/3277925755432043509/|title=Steam Community - There was an error retrieving your purchase history|date=2018-02-26}}</ref><ref>{{Refurl|url=https://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/xbox/forum/all/i-will-continue-insisting-for-the-games-for/ae8a7b21-9243-4672-9c2b-8c8509c79b04?page=1|title=I will continue insisting for the Games for Windows Marketplace to be repaired by Microsoft by Cosminiion on Microsoft Community|date=2023-09-27}}</ref> and made entirely non-functional in 2022. Note that at least as of 2024, the online services (activation, authentication, and online profiles) are still working.<ref>{{Refcheck|user=Mirh|date=2024-04-18|comment=}}</ref> | ||
+ | }} | ||
+ | |||
+ | '''General information''' | ||
{{ii}} '''Requires installation of the [[#Download|latest version]] to function on Windows 8 and later.''' | {{ii}} '''Requires installation of the [[#Download|latest version]] to function on Windows 8 and later.''' | ||
− | {{ii | + | {{ii}} Uses the same Microsoft/Xbox account across other services and as such is only available in regions that [http://www.xbox.com/regions Xbox Live supports]; Users outside those regions must use a [[#Creating a local profile|local profile]]. |
− | + | {{mm}} [https://support.xbox.com/help/account-profile/browse Official Xbox Live account support] | |
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==Download== | ==Download== | ||
# Remove any existing versions of the GFWL Marketplace and LIVE Redistributable. | # Remove any existing versions of the GFWL Marketplace and LIVE Redistributable. | ||
# Download and install the [https://community.pcgamingwiki.com/files/file/1012-microsoft-games-for-windows-live/ Games for Windows - LIVE software.] | # Download and install the [https://community.pcgamingwiki.com/files/file/1012-microsoft-games-for-windows-live/ Games for Windows - LIVE software.] | ||
− | #* Note that the included GFWL Marketplace is non-functional | + | #* Note that the included GFWL Marketplace is non-functional since 2022 and can be ignored after the installation.<ref>{{Refcheck|user=Aemony|date=2022-08-15|comment=}}</ref> |
− | # Launch a GFWL title and sign in using the in-game overlay and login prompt that appears. Please note that the first sign-in for a game tend to take quite some time and the process might seem to be stuck for | + | # Launch a GFWL title and sign in using the in-game overlay and login prompt that appears. Please note that the first sign-in for a game tend to take quite some time and the process might seem to be stuck for a few minutes before completion.<ref>{{Refcheck|user=Aemony|date=2022-08-15|comment=This is something that have been the case the last few years — the first sign-in to a game on a system takes forever before it finishes, though subsequent sign-ins for that game takes the expected couple of seconds.}}</ref> |
==Games for Windows - LIVE== | ==Games for Windows - LIVE== | ||
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{{ii}} Local profiles can't be used for games that are multiplayer-only or always-online (e.g. [[Age of Empires Online]]). | {{ii}} Local profiles can't be used for games that are multiplayer-only or always-online (e.g. [[Age of Empires Online]]). | ||
− | {{Fixbox|description=Create local profile|ref=<ref>{{Refcheck|user= | + | {{Fixbox|description=Create local profile|ref=<ref>{{Refcheck|user=SargeCassidy|date=2021-09-20|comment=Tested with a retail installation of Fable III. Once the GFWL overlay pop-up appeared, I was able to follow the instructions and create a local profile.}}</ref>|fix= |
# While in any game sign out of your existing profile (if you are signed in), then choose Create New Profile. | # While in any game sign out of your existing profile (if you are signed in), then choose Create New Profile. | ||
# Choose Create New Profile again. | # Choose Create New Profile again. | ||
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{{Fixbox|description=Back up XLive folder|ref={{cn|date=April 2017}}|fix= | {{Fixbox|description=Back up XLive folder|ref={{cn|date=April 2017}}|fix= | ||
# Back up the game's normal save folder. | # Back up the game's normal save folder. | ||
− | # Back up the XLive folder: | + | # Back up the XLive folder: {{file|{{p|localappdata}}\Microsoft\XLive|folder}}. |
# Restore everything to the same locations. | # Restore everything to the same locations. | ||
}} | }} | ||
===Moving saves between gamertags=== | ===Moving saves between gamertags=== | ||
− | {{ii}} If you rename your gamertag or switch to a different one your existing saves won't be shown in-game.<ref> | + | {{ii}} If you rename your gamertag or switch to a different one your existing saves won't be shown in-game.<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://www.reddit.com/r/Games/comments/vs0zd/psa_if_you_change_your_windows_live_gamer_tag/|title=PSA: If you change your Windows Live gamer tag name, all of your GFWL save games will disappear.|date=17 May 2023}}</ref> |
{{Fixbox|description=Move saves to new gamertag|fix= | {{Fixbox|description=Move saves to new gamertag|fix= | ||
− | # Log into the game with | + | # Log into the game with the new gamertag and save the game to make the new folder, then exit the game. |
− | # Go to the game's save folder | + | # Go to the game's save folder (e.g. for [[Fallout 3]] this is {{file|{{p|userprofile}}\Documents\My Games\Fallout3\Saves|folder}}). |
# Move everything from the old gamertag's folder to the new one, replacing all existing files. | # Move everything from the old gamertag's folder to the new one, replacing all existing files. | ||
− | # If it worked | + | # If it worked, the saves will now show up in-game under the new gamertag. |
− | {{--}} Some games specifically block saves being moved between profiles so this may not work for all games.<ref>{{Refcheck|user= | + | {{--}} Some games specifically block saves being moved between profiles so this may not work for all games.<ref>{{Refcheck|user=SargeCassidy|date=2022-08-17|comment=This is the case for Fable III, at the very least. Opening the file and changing the gamertag within the game's save/following the above instructions both (separately or at the same time, doesn't matter) result in the game assuming the save is corrupt and forces to create a new save. }}</ref> |
}} | }} | ||
===Backing up installers=== | ===Backing up installers=== | ||
{{ii}} Installation files are normally deleted after installation is complete; you can back them up to avoid having to download them again. | {{ii}} Installation files are normally deleted after installation is complete; you can back them up to avoid having to download them again. | ||
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− | {{Fixbox|description=Backing up installers | + | {{Fixbox|description=Backing up patch update installers|ref=<ref>{{Refcheck|user=SargeCassidy|date=2024-01-21|comment=Using those instructions, I have been able to back up patches for games like Fable III, Dark Souls and BioShock 2.}}</ref>|fix= |
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# Allow the game to download the update in-game when prompted. | # Allow the game to download the update in-game when prompted. | ||
# Cancel the UAC prompt or installer window when it appears. | # Cancel the UAC prompt or installer window when it appears. | ||
# Go to the updates folder, found in the following location by default: | # Go to the updates folder, found in the following location by default: | ||
− | #* Vista and later: | + | #* Vista and later: {{file|{{p|localappdata}}\Microsoft\XLive\Updates|folder}} |
− | #* Windows XP: | + | #* Windows XP: {{file|{{p|userprofile}}\Local Settings\Application Data\Microsoft\XLive\Updates|folder}} |
− | # Copy the installation files somewhere else then allow the game to retry the update installation | + | # Copy the installation files somewhere else, then allow the game to retry the update installation. |
− | # To reinstall the update from | + | # To reinstall the update from the backup, extract the {{file|.cab}} file(s) and run the executablee (or {{file|.msi}}). |
}} | }} | ||
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===Zero Day Piracy Protection (ZDPP)=== | ===Zero Day Piracy Protection (ZDPP)=== | ||
− | '''Zero Day Piracy Protection (ZDPP)''' was an additional DRM check used to prevent access to | + | '''Zero Day Piracy Protection (ZDPP)''' was an additional DRM check used to prevent pre-release access to games through their retail copies. It relied on an online service to decrypt critical ''AES-128'' encrypted game files that were stored on the disc. When the user tried to launch the game after its installation had completed the '''Zero Day Piracy Protection Tool''' would be launched instead. This tool connected and transmitted the ID of the protected game to Microsoft's online ZDP service hosted [https://zdp.gamesforwindows.com/Zdp/Zdp.svc/ here]. The online service would then look up the release date for the requested game ID and validate if the date have passed. Upon confirming the release date as passed, the service would respond with the decryption keys for the relevant files which allowed the local tool to decrypt them and grant user access to the game. |
− | The online service stopped working sometime between 2018 and 2020,<ref>{{Refcheck|user=Aemony|date=2022-09-15|comment=In February of 2018 was when I investigated Dark Souls, and at the time the online service worked.}}</ref> meaning retail discs of ZDPP protected games will not longer work after installation unless the decrypted files | + | The online service stopped working sometime between 2018 and 2020,<ref>{{Refcheck|user=Aemony|date=2022-09-15|comment=In February of 2018 was when I investigated Dark Souls, and at the time the online service worked.}}</ref> meaning retail discs of ZDPP protected games will not longer work after installation unless the decrypted files are retrieved through another means. A common method is by manually installing the patches released for the game as they usually come with a decrypted copy of the game executable. |
===Module Authentication (MA)=== | ===Module Authentication (MA)=== | ||
− | '''Module Authentication (MA)''' is an protection measure meant to prevent debugging and/or cheats by verifying protected executable files.{{note|Not a lot of information is available on this module, but [https://www.slideshare.net/arkaray72/defense-against-the-dark-arts-of-game-piracy-and-cheating this presentation] mentions it in context of anti-cheat measures.<ref>{{Refcheck|user=Aemony|date=2022-03-20|comment=Comment (optional)}}</ref> Additionally, it is also mentioned in the EULA for the original version of ''[[Bulletstorm]]''.<ref>https://media.contentapi.ea.com/content/dam/eacom/en-us/eula/eula-bulletstorm-ea-pcf-combined-07-12-10-2-2.pdf</ref>}} | + | '''Module Authentication (MA)''' is an protection measure meant to prevent debugging and/or cheats by verifying protected executable files.{{note|Not a lot of information is available on this module, but [https://www.slideshare.net/arkaray72/defense-against-the-dark-arts-of-game-piracy-and-cheating this presentation] mentions it in context of anti-cheat measures.<ref>{{Refcheck|user=Aemony|date=2022-03-20|comment=Comment (optional)}}</ref> Additionally, it is also mentioned in the EULA for the original version of ''[[Bulletstorm]]''.<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://media.contentapi.ea.com/content/dam/eacom/en-us/eula/eula-bulletstorm-ea-pcf-combined-07-12-10-2-2.pdf|title=media.contentapi.ea.com|date=17 May 2023}}</ref>}} |
==Issues unresolved== | ==Issues unresolved== | ||
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}} | }} | ||
− | + | ===Games not saving under Windows 8 and newer=== | |
− | + | {{Fixbox|description=Reinstall client in Windows 7 compatibility mode and as administrator|ref=<ref>{{Refurl|url=http://www.alialsawaf.com/post/36741943821/how-to-fix-games-for-windows-live-on-windows-8-pro|title=How to fix Games for Windows Live on Windows 8 Pro x64 (And Windows 10 too!)|date=17 May 2023}}</ref>|fix= | |
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− | ===Games not saving under Windows 8 | ||
− | {{Fixbox|description= | ||
# Uninstall Microsoft Games for Windows – LIVE Redistributable. | # Uninstall Microsoft Games for Windows – LIVE Redistributable. | ||
# Uninstall Microsoft Games for Windows Marketplace. | # Uninstall Microsoft Games for Windows Marketplace. | ||
# Reboot Windows. | # Reboot Windows. | ||
# Download the [[#Download|latest version]] of the Games for Windows Marketplace Client installer. | # Download the [[#Download|latest version]] of the Games for Windows Marketplace Client installer. | ||
− | # | + | # Run the installer in [[Windows Compatibility Mode|compatibility mode]] for Windows 7 and as administrator. |
− | # | + | # Run a GFWL game and retrieve the gamertag profile if necessary. |
− | |||
}} | }} | ||
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====In-game interface does not open==== | ====In-game interface does not open==== | ||
{{Fixbox|description=[[#Crashes, errors, impossible to log-in|Reinstall client]]|ref={{cn|date=April 2017}}}} | {{Fixbox|description=[[#Crashes, errors, impossible to log-in|Reinstall client]]|ref={{cn|date=April 2017}}}} | ||
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====Code: 8015403A error==== | ====Code: 8015403A error==== | ||
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====Code: 80048821 error==== | ====Code: 80048821 error==== | ||
− | {{Fixbox|description=If two-factor authentication is enabled, [https://account.live.com/proofs/AppPassword create a new app password]|ref=<ref> | + | {{Fixbox|description=If two-factor authentication is enabled, [https://account.live.com/proofs/AppPassword create a new app password]|ref=<ref>{{Refurl|url=http://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/forum/windows_7-gaming/games-for-windows-live-marketplace-code-80048821/544365d0-8289-4327-a8d8-9e85eb77dc72?msgId=9d540aa4-a189-4ebe-bda5-567b6fd49f6e&rtAction=1374348981862|title=Games For Windows live marketplace Code: 80048821 - Microsoft Community|date=May 2023}}</ref>}} |
{{Fixbox|description=Try "Sign in with a different gamertag" in the Windows Live ID dropdown menu|ref={{cn|date=April 2017}}}} | {{Fixbox|description=Try "Sign in with a different gamertag" in the Windows Live ID dropdown menu|ref={{cn|date=April 2017}}}} | ||
====Password contains special characters==== | ====Password contains special characters==== | ||
− | {{ii}} Passwords need to be under 16 [[Wikipedia:ASCII#Printable characters|ASCII]] characters<ref>[http://thenextweb.com/microsoft/2012/09/21/this-ridiculous-microsoft-longer-accepts-long-passwords-shortens/ Microsoft No Longer Accepts Long Passwords, Shortens Them For You | The Next Web]</ref><ref> | + | {{ii}} Passwords need to be under 16 [[Wikipedia:ASCII#Printable characters|ASCII]] characters<ref>[http://thenextweb.com/microsoft/2012/09/21/this-ridiculous-microsoft-longer-accepts-long-passwords-shortens/ Microsoft No Longer Accepts Long Passwords, Shortens Them For You | The Next Web]</ref><ref>{{Refurl|url=http://webapps.stackexchange.com/questions/79382/is-it-true-that-microsoft-doesnt-allow-more-than-16-characters-in-their-hotmail/#88412|title=security - Is it true that Microsoft doesn't allow more than 16 characters in their Hotmail password? - Web Applications Stack Exchange|date=17 May 2023}}</ref> |
{{Fixbox|description=Change incompatible password|ref={{cn|date=July 2016}}|fix= | {{Fixbox|description=Change incompatible password|ref={{cn|date=July 2016}}|fix= | ||
− | # Go to https://account.live.com/Password/Change | + | # Go to [https://account.live.com/Password/Change the password change form]. |
# Set a new password that is 16 characters or less and has only ASCII characters. | # Set a new password that is 16 characters or less and has only ASCII characters. | ||
− | # Try signing in with | + | # Try signing in with the new password. |
}} | }} | ||
====Cannot connect in-game==== | ====Cannot connect in-game==== | ||
− | + | The Microsoft account might be able to log into other Microsoft services but not GfWL. | |
{{Fixbox|description=Attempt workarounds|ref={{cn|date=July 2016}}|fix= | {{Fixbox|description=Attempt workarounds|ref={{cn|date=July 2016}}|fix= | ||
* "Sign in as a different user", then re-enter the same account credentials. | * "Sign in as a different user", then re-enter the same account credentials. | ||
− | *# Open an administrator | + | *# Open an administrator level command prompt. |
*# Enter <code>netsh.exe interface ipv4 show interfaces</code> and note the number it returns. | *# Enter <code>netsh.exe interface ipv4 show interfaces</code> and note the number it returns. | ||
− | *# Identify | + | *# Identify the used Local Area Connection, then type in <code>netsh interface ipv4 set subinterface 10 mtu=1492 store=persistent</code><br>Replace "10" with the value for the Local Area Connection from the first command's results. This may need to be run every time the game is started. |
− | {{ii}} This problem arises because GFWL tries to alter | + | {{ii}} This problem arises because GFWL tries to alter the [[Wikipedia:Maximum transmission unit|network connection's MTU]] before using it. |
}} | }} | ||
====DNS lookup failed to locate the LIVE servers==== | ====DNS lookup failed to locate the LIVE servers==== | ||
{{mm}} ''"Can't connect to LIVE. A DNS lookup failed to locate the LIVE servers."'' | {{mm}} ''"Can't connect to LIVE. A DNS lookup failed to locate the LIVE servers."'' | ||
− | + | {{Fixbox|description=Flush all DNS entries in cache & change default DNS servers to OpenDNS servers|ref=<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/forums/t/529115/dns-lookup-failed-i-have-no-idea-what-this-is-or-how-to-fix-it-what-do-i-do/?p=3327400|title=DNS lookup failed? I have no idea what this is or how to fix it. What do I do?|date=May 2023}}</ref>|fix= | |
− | {{Fixbox|description=Flush all DNS entries in cache & change default DNS servers to OpenDNS servers|ref=<ref> | ||
Flush the DNS entries from your DNS cache | Flush the DNS entries from your DNS cache | ||
− | # | + | # Run the command prompt as administrator. |
− | # Type the following: | + | # Type the following: <code>ipconfig /flushdns</code> |
# Press Enter. | # Press Enter. | ||
− | # | + | # Exit the command prompt. |
− | Change | + | Change the DNS servers to OpenDNS servers |
− | # Open the Control Panel | + | # Open the Control Panel. |
# Under the 'Network and Internet' header click 'View network status and tasks'. | # Under the 'Network and Internet' header click 'View network status and tasks'. | ||
− | # Select the current network used for | + | # Select the current network used for teh used Internet connection, right-click on it and select 'Properties' from the context menu. |
# Select 'Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)' from the 'This connection uses the following items' box. Click 'Properties' button. | # Select 'Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)' from the 'This connection uses the following items' box. Click 'Properties' button. | ||
# Click the checkbox labelled 'Use the following DNS server addresses:' | # Click the checkbox labelled 'Use the following DNS server addresses:' | ||
− | # In the 'Preferred DNS server:' box | + | # In the 'Preferred DNS server:' box, enter <code>208.67.222.222</code>. |
− | # In the 'Alternative DNS server:' box | + | # In the 'Alternative DNS server:' box enter <code>208.67.220.220</code>. |
− | # Click 'OK' and then click 'Close' for | + | # Click 'OK' and then click 'Close' for Internet connection's Properties window. |
− | # Sign out of | + | # Sign out of the Windows account or restart the computer for changes to take affect. |
}} | }} | ||
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| [[Osmos]] || [[Company:Hemisphere Games|Hemisphere Games]] || || August 17, 2009 || {{Tickcross|true}} || {{Tickcross|false}} | | [[Osmos]] || [[Company:Hemisphere Games|Hemisphere Games]] || || August 17, 2009 || {{Tickcross|true}} || {{Tickcross|false}} | ||
|- | |- | ||
− | | [[World of Goo]] || [[Company:2D Boy|2D Boy]] || || October 13, 2008 || {{Tickcross|true}} || {{Tickcross|false}} | + | | [[World_of_Goo_(2008)| World of Goo (2008)]] || [[Company:2D Boy|2D Boy]] || || October 13, 2008 || {{Tickcross|true}} || {{Tickcross|false}} |
|} | |} | ||
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|- | |- | ||
|[[BioShock 2]] | |[[BioShock 2]] | ||
− | |Steam version migrated to Steamworks. All product keys activate on Steam.<ref> | + | |Steam version migrated to Steamworks. All product keys activate on Steam.<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://store.steampowered.com/news/11567/|title=News - BioShock 2 Updated|date=17 May 2023}}</ref> |
|- | |- | ||
|[[BlazBlue: Calamity Trigger]] | |[[BlazBlue: Calamity Trigger]] | ||
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|[[Fallout 3]] | |[[Fallout 3]] | ||
|GFWL removed from Steam version.<ref name="Fallout 3 GFWL removed">[https://store.steampowered.com/news/app/22370/view/2993196769824312887 Fallout 3: Game of the Year - Update 1.7.0.4]</ref> | |GFWL removed from Steam version.<ref name="Fallout 3 GFWL removed">[https://store.steampowered.com/news/app/22370/view/2993196769824312887 Fallout 3: Game of the Year - Update 1.7.0.4]</ref> | ||
+ | |- | ||
+ | |[[FlatOut: Ultimate Carnage]] | ||
+ | |GFWL removed in Collector's Edition update.<ref name="FlatOut Ultimate Carnage GFWL removed">[https://store.steampowered.com/news/app/12360/view/4148449764353159269 Announcing FlatOut: Ultimate Carnage Collector's Edition!]</ref> GFWL can be accessed if still desired through the '''gfwl''' Steam beta (does not generate a GFWL key). | ||
|- | |- | ||
|[[Gotham City Impostors]] | |[[Gotham City Impostors]] | ||
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|- | |- | ||
|[[Insanely Twisted Shadow Planet]] | |[[Insanely Twisted Shadow Planet]] | ||
− | |Steam version migrated to Steamworks. GFWL removed.<ref> | + | |Steam version migrated to Steamworks. GFWL removed.<ref>{{Refurl|url=http://michelgagne.blogspot.com/2013/12/insanely-twisted-shadow-planet-goes.html|title=Insanely Twisted Shadow Planet Goes GFWL-Free with New Indie Bundle|date=17 May 2023}}</ref> |
|- | |- | ||
|[[Iron Brigade]] | |[[Iron Brigade]] | ||
− | |GFWL was removed in the Steam Matchmaking update.<ref> | + | |GFWL was removed in the Steam Matchmaking update.<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://steamcommunity.com/app/115120/discussions/0/617336568087988501/|title=Update: GFWL Gone, progress wiped :: Iron Brigade General Discussions|date=17 May 2023}}</ref> |
|- | |- | ||
|[[Ms. Splosion Man]] | |[[Ms. Splosion Man]] | ||
− | |Steam version migrated to Steamworks on June 20, 2014.<ref> | + | |Steam version migrated to Steamworks on June 20, 2014.<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://steamcommunity.com/games/105420/announcements/detail/1407687862584831495|title=Steamworks update! - Steam Community :: Group Announcements :: Ms. Splosion Man|date=17 May 2023}}</ref> Other versions are not affected. GFWL can be accessed if still desired<ref>https://steamcommunity.com/app/105420/discussions/0/522729358512938354/#c45350244936638030</ref> |
|- | |- | ||
|[[Red Faction: Guerrilla]] | |[[Red Faction: Guerrilla]] | ||
− | |Steam version migrated to Steamworks.<ref name="Red Faction: Guerrilla">[https://steamcommunity.com/games/RedFactionGuerrilla/announcements/detail/168086566375667735 Red Faction Guerrilla Steam Edition LIVE - Steam Community :: Group Announcements :: Red Faction: Guerrilla Steam Edition]</ref> | + | |Steam version migrated to Steamworks.<ref name="Red Faction: Guerrilla">[https://steamcommunity.com/games/RedFactionGuerrilla/announcements/detail/168086566375667735 Red Faction Guerrilla Steam Edition LIVE - Steam Community :: Group Announcements :: Red Faction: Guerrilla Steam Edition]</ref> GFWL can be accessed if still desired through the '''gamesforwindowslivelegacy''' Steam beta (does not generate a GFWL key). |
|- | |- | ||
|[[Resident Evil 5]] | |[[Resident Evil 5]] | ||
− | |Steam version migrated to Steamworks. Retail product keys activate on Steam.<ref> | + | |Steam version migrated to Steamworks. Retail product keys activate on Steam.<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://steamcommunity.com/games/21690/announcements/|title="Gold Edition" Content Now Available! - Steam Community :: Group Announcements :: Resident Evil 5 / Biohazard 5|date=17 May 2023}}</ref> GFWL can be accessed if still desired, see game page. |
|- | |- | ||
|[[Super Street Fighter IV: Arcade Edition]] | |[[Super Street Fighter IV: Arcade Edition]] | ||
− | |Steam version migrated to Steamworks.<ref> | + | |Steam version migrated to Steamworks as Ultra Street Fighter IV.<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://store.steampowered.com/news/13497/|title=Just Updated with Steamworks - Super Street Fighter® IV Arcade Edition, 75% off!|date=9 June 2023}}</ref> GFWL saves can be optionally imported. All product keys activate on Steam. |
|- | |- | ||
|[[Toy Soldiers]] | |[[Toy Soldiers]] | ||
− | |Steam version gives choice of GFWL or Steamworks (saves and achievements are separate for each). GFWL completely optional.<ref> | + | |Steam version gives choice of GFWL or Steamworks (saves and achievements are separate for each). GFWL completely optional (GFWL keys cannot be generated or retrieved).<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://store.steampowered.com/news/9054/|title=News - Toy Soldiers Product Update|date=17 May 2023}}</ref> |
|- | |- | ||
|[[Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War II]] | |[[Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War II]] | ||
− | |GFWL has been removed.<ref> | + | |GFWL has been removed.<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://steamcommunity.com/app/15620/discussions/0/616187203947612034/|title=Dawn of War II Patch Notes and Updates :: Warhammer® 40,000™: Dawn of War® II General Discussions|date=9 June 2023}}</ref> A GFWL downgrade is available, see game page. |
|- | |- | ||
|[[Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War II: Chaos Rising]] | |[[Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War II: Chaos Rising]] | ||
− | |GFWL has been removed.<ref> | + | |GFWL has been removed.<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://steamcommunity.com/app/20570/discussions/0/616187203947439283/|title=Dawn of War II - Chaos Rising Patch Notes/Updates :: Warhammer® 40,000™: Dawn of War® II - Chaos Rising™ General Discussions|date=9 June 2023}}</ref> A GFWL downgrade is available, see game page. |
|} | |} | ||
Revision as of 12:50, 12 May 2024
Developers | |
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Microsoft | |
Release dates | |
Windows | May 29, 2007 |
Games for Windows - LIVE, often also referred to as GFWL, is an online gaming service and was also a storefront developed by Microsoft.
Together with distributing games under both the GFWL and less-restrictive Games for Windows[1] branding through the Marketplace client, Games for Windows - LIVE also offers distinguishable features such as Xbox LIVE achievements, social networking and in some cases, cross-platform multiplayer with Xbox 360 consoles.
Games distributed through the Marketplace were usually protected with its' own DRM, with all GFWL releases also requiring activation through a product key. Note that most games used additional third-party DRM such as SecuROM. Some GFWL games have also been released on Steam, see the Big List of 3rd Party DRM on Steam for exact information.
Games for Windows - LIVE was officially launched on May 29th, 2007 with Shadowrun releasing on Windows PCs.
With the Marketplace client's official closure on August 25th, 2013,[2] multiple publishers and developers have, over time, removed the GFWL service entirely from their games on digital distribution platforms and future retail releases,[3][4] although the Marketplace client was supposed to allow downloading existing purchases after the closure, it has degraded steadily since 2018[5][6] and made entirely non-functional in 2022. Note that at least as of 2024, the online services (activation, authentication, and online profiles) are still working.[7]
General information
- Requires installation of the latest version to function on Windows 8 and later.
- Uses the same Microsoft/Xbox account across other services and as such is only available in regions that Xbox Live supports; Users outside those regions must use a local profile.
- Official Xbox Live account support
Download
- Remove any existing versions of the GFWL Marketplace and LIVE Redistributable.
- Download and install the Games for Windows - LIVE software.
- Note that the included GFWL Marketplace is non-functional since 2022 and can be ignored after the installation.[8]
- Launch a GFWL title and sign in using the in-game overlay and login prompt that appears. Please note that the first sign-in for a game tend to take quite some time and the process might seem to be stuck for a few minutes before completion.[9]
Games for Windows - LIVE
Creating a local profile
- Local profiles don't need internet access.
- Multiplayer, achievements, DLC downloading and in-game patching are unavailable (many games can be patched manually; refer to the individual game pages for details).
- Local profiles can't be used for games that are multiplayer-only or always-online (e.g. Age of Empires Online).
Create local profile[10] |
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|
Backing up saves
Back up XLive folder[citation needed] |
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|
Moving saves between gamertags
- If you rename your gamertag or switch to a different one your existing saves won't be shown in-game.[11]
Move saves to new gamertag |
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|
Backing up installers
- Installation files are normally deleted after installation is complete; you can back them up to avoid having to download them again.
Backing up patch update installers[13] |
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|
DRM
There are two types of GFWL activation, Server-Side Activation (SSA) and Legacy (Per-Title 5x5). Both can also utilize Zero Day Piracy Protection (ZDPP) to prevent access to games before the release date. ZDPP protected titles are marked as such.
Server-Side Activation (SSA)
- Server-Side Activation (SSA) include a unique product key with the game. The key is permanently bound to the Microsoft account, similar to Steam. These games have no activation limits.
- If an SSA product key is bound to an account that is not in a supported region the key will be lost (and, consequently, access to the game).
- SSA implementations are flexible and it is up to game developers how much of the product should be restricted behind the activation.[Note 1]
Legacy (Per-Title 5x5)
- Simple product key check; requires internet access for online profile but does not attach the key to the Microsoft account.
- Activation limit between 10-20 (usually 15) for online profiles. Then, the game must be purchased again.
Zero Day Piracy Protection (ZDPP)
Zero Day Piracy Protection (ZDPP) was an additional DRM check used to prevent pre-release access to games through their retail copies. It relied on an online service to decrypt critical AES-128 encrypted game files that were stored on the disc. When the user tried to launch the game after its installation had completed the Zero Day Piracy Protection Tool would be launched instead. This tool connected and transmitted the ID of the protected game to Microsoft's online ZDP service hosted here. The online service would then look up the release date for the requested game ID and validate if the date have passed. Upon confirming the release date as passed, the service would respond with the decryption keys for the relevant files which allowed the local tool to decrypt them and grant user access to the game.
The online service stopped working sometime between 2018 and 2020,[15] meaning retail discs of ZDPP protected games will not longer work after installation unless the decrypted files are retrieved through another means. A common method is by manually installing the patches released for the game as they usually come with a decrypted copy of the game executable.
Module Authentication (MA)
Module Authentication (MA) is an protection measure meant to prevent debugging and/or cheats by verifying protected executable files.[Note 2]
Issues unresolved
- If you still have any issues with GFWL, use XLiveLess
Issues fixed
Crashes, errors, impossible to log-in
Reinstall updated client[citation needed] |
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|
Games not saving under Windows 8 and newer
Reinstall client in Windows 7 compatibility mode and as administrator[18] |
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|
Sign-in problems
In-game interface does not open
Reinstall client[citation needed] |
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Code: 8015403A error
Try to log in website[citation needed] |
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Code: 80048821 error
If two-factor authentication is enabled, create a new app password[19] |
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Try "Sign in with a different gamertag" in the Windows Live ID dropdown menu[citation needed] |
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Password contains special characters
Change incompatible password[citation needed] |
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|
Cannot connect in-game
The Microsoft account might be able to log into other Microsoft services but not GfWL.
Attempt workarounds[citation needed] |
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|
DNS lookup failed to locate the LIVE servers
- "Can't connect to LIVE. A DNS lookup failed to locate the LIVE servers."
Flush all DNS entries in cache & change default DNS servers to OpenDNS servers[22] |
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Flush the DNS entries from your DNS cache
Change the DNS servers to OpenDNS servers
|
List of games using Games for Windows - LIVE
Server-Side Activation (SSA) titles
- This section is automated; refer to the individual game pages to add or update entries.
Legacy (Per-Title 5x5) titles
- This section is automated; refer to the individual game pages to add or update entries.
No results
Only on the Games for Windows Marketplace
- These games only had Games for Windows - LIVE when purchased from the Games for Windows Marketplace.
- These versions were removed for purchase on August 25, 2013 following the Marketplace's closure,[2] and eventually removed for download in 2015.
Server-Side Activation (SSA) titles
Game | Developer | Publisher | First release | Local profile | ZDPP |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Dark Void | Airtight Games | Capcom | January 19, 2010 | ||
Game Room | Krome Studios | Microsoft Game Studios | March 24, 2010 | ||
Mahjong Wisdom | Creat Studios | TikGames | March 7, 2007 | ||
Tinker | Fuel Industries | Microsoft | September 23, 2008 | ||
Where's Waldo? The Fantastic Journey | Ludia | Microsoft Game Studios | September 22, 2009 |
Legacy (Per-Title 5x5) titles
Game | Developer | Publisher | First release | Local profile | ZDPP |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Osmos | Hemisphere Games | August 17, 2009 | |||
World of Goo (2008) | 2D Boy | October 13, 2008 |
List of games formerly using Games for Windows - LIVE
- These games have had Games for Windows - LIVE removed from certain versions in favour of Steam or other services.
Name | Notes |
---|---|
Ace Combat: Assault Horizon - Enhanced Edition | Steam version migrated to Steamworks. Retail product keys activate on Steam.[23] |
Batman: Arkham Asylum | GFWL and SecuROM removed from Steam version. All product keys activate on Steam. Non-GOTY keys are upgraded to GOTY version.[24] |
Batman: Arkham City | GFWL and SecuROM removed from Steam version. All product keys activate on Steam. Non-GOTY keys are upgraded to GOTY version.[24] |
BioShock 2 | Steam version migrated to Steamworks. All product keys activate on Steam.[25] |
BlazBlue: Calamity Trigger | Re-released without GFWL. The original version cannot be upgraded. |
Dark Souls: Prepare to Die Edition | Steam version migrated to Steamworks on February 16, 2015. All product keys activate on Steam.[26] |
Dead Rising 2 | Steam version migrated to Steamworks on March 17, 2015.[27] Retail product keys activate on Steam.[28] |
Dead Rising 2: Off the Record | Steam version migrated to Steamworks on March 17, 2015.[27] Retail product keys activate on Steam.[28] |
DiRT 3 | Steam version owners received DiRT 3 Complete Edition which does not use GFWL. Retail product keys activate on Steam.[29] |
Fallout 3 | GFWL removed from Steam version.[30] |
FlatOut: Ultimate Carnage | GFWL removed in Collector's Edition update.[31] GFWL can be accessed if still desired through the gfwl Steam beta (does not generate a GFWL key). |
Gotham City Impostors | Free to Play version does not use GFWL. |
Grand Theft Auto IV / Grand Theft Auto: Episodes from Liberty City | Steam versions merged and changed in March 2020 to remove GFWL and replace its functionality with that of Rockstar Games Launcher.[32] |
Insanely Twisted Shadow Planet | Steam version migrated to Steamworks. GFWL removed.[33] |
Iron Brigade | GFWL was removed in the Steam Matchmaking update.[34] |
Ms. Splosion Man | Steam version migrated to Steamworks on June 20, 2014.[35] Other versions are not affected. GFWL can be accessed if still desired[36] |
Red Faction: Guerrilla | Steam version migrated to Steamworks.[37] GFWL can be accessed if still desired through the gamesforwindowslivelegacy Steam beta (does not generate a GFWL key). |
Resident Evil 5 | Steam version migrated to Steamworks. Retail product keys activate on Steam.[38] GFWL can be accessed if still desired, see game page. |
Super Street Fighter IV: Arcade Edition | Steam version migrated to Steamworks as Ultra Street Fighter IV.[39] GFWL saves can be optionally imported. All product keys activate on Steam. |
Toy Soldiers | Steam version gives choice of GFWL or Steamworks (saves and achievements are separate for each). GFWL completely optional (GFWL keys cannot be generated or retrieved).[40] |
Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War II | GFWL has been removed.[41] A GFWL downgrade is available, see game page. |
Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War II: Chaos Rising | GFWL has been removed.[42] A GFWL downgrade is available, see game page. |
Notes
- ↑ Four typical configurations are mentioned as examples in a presentation by Microsoft:[14]
- While offline: Singleplayer is accessible. While connected to LIVE: Multiplayer, achievements, DLCs are accessible.
- While offline: Nothing is accessible. Having connected once to LIVE: Singleplayer is accessible. While connected to LIVE: Multiplayer, achievements, DLCs are accessible.
- While offline: Nothing is accessible: While connected to LIVE: Singleplayer, Multiplayer, achievements, DLCs are accessible.
- While offline: Demo with only the first few levels are accessible. While connected to LIVE: Singleplayer, Multiplayer, achievements, DLCs are accessible.
- ↑ Not a lot of information is available on this module, but this presentation mentions it in context of anti-cheat measures.[16] Additionally, it is also mentioned in the EULA for the original version of Bulletstorm.[17]
References
- ↑ For Publishers | Games for Windows
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 Wayback Machine: PC Marketplace closing | PC Marketplace - Xbox.com
- ↑ Batman: Arkham games drop Games for Windows Live - Destructoid - last accessed on 2023-09-27
- ↑ Fallout 3 - Update 1.7.0.4 on Steam News - last accessed on 2023-09-27
- ↑ Steam Community - There was an error retrieving your purchase history - last accessed on 2018-02-26
- ↑ I will continue insisting for the Games for Windows Marketplace to be repaired by Microsoft by Cosminiion on Microsoft Community - last accessed on 2023-09-27
- ↑ Verified by User:Mirh on 2024-04-18
- ↑ Verified by User:Aemony on 2022-08-15
- ↑ Verified by User:Aemony on 2022-08-15
- This is something that have been the case the last few years — the first sign-in to a game on a system takes forever before it finishes, though subsequent sign-ins for that game takes the expected couple of seconds.
- ↑ Verified by User:SargeCassidy on 2021-09-20
- Tested with a retail installation of Fable III. Once the GFWL overlay pop-up appeared, I was able to follow the instructions and create a local profile.
- ↑ PSA: If you change your Windows Live gamer tag name, all of your GFWL save games will disappear. - last accessed on 17 May 2023
- ↑ Verified by User:SargeCassidy on 2022-08-17
- This is the case for Fable III, at the very least. Opening the file and changing the gamertag within the game's save/following the above instructions both (separately or at the same time, doesn't matter) result in the game assuming the save is corrupt and forces to create a new save.
- ↑ Verified by User:SargeCassidy on 2024-01-21
- Using those instructions, I have been able to back up patches for games like Fable III, Dark Souls and BioShock 2.
- ↑ Defense Against the Dark Arts of Game Piracy and Cheating - Gamefest 2010 presentation by Arka Ray on protecting PC games from piracy and cheating. - last accessed on 2022-03-20
- ↑ Verified by User:Aemony on 2022-09-15
- In February of 2018 was when I investigated Dark Souls, and at the time the online service worked.
- ↑ Verified by User:Aemony on 2022-03-20
- ↑ media.contentapi.ea.com - last accessed on 17 May 2023
- ↑ How to fix Games for Windows Live on Windows 8 Pro x64 (And Windows 10 too!) - last accessed on 17 May 2023
- ↑ Games For Windows live marketplace Code: 80048821 - Microsoft Community - last accessed on May 2023
- ↑ Microsoft No Longer Accepts Long Passwords, Shortens Them For You | The Next Web
- ↑ security - Is it true that Microsoft doesn't allow more than 16 characters in their Hotmail password? - Web Applications Stack Exchange - last accessed on 17 May 2023
- ↑ DNS lookup failed? I have no idea what this is or how to fix it. What do I do? - last accessed on May 2023
- ↑ Ace Combat Assault Horizon enhanced Edition title Update - Game for Windows Live functionalities replaced by Steamworks funtionalities. - Steam Community :: Group Announcements :: ACE COMBAT™ ASSAULT HORIZON Enhanced Edition
- ↑ 24.0 24.1 Important Batman Arkham Announcement - Steam Community :: Group Announcements :: Batman: Arkham City GOTY
- ↑ News - BioShock 2 Updated - last accessed on 17 May 2023
- ↑ HOW TO: Replace Games for Windows Live functionality with Steamworks functionality in Dark Souls™ Prepare To Die Edition for PC :: Dark Souls: Prepare to Die Edition General Discussions
- ↑ 27.0 27.1 Dead Rising 2 and Off the Record now on Steam, on sale - Steam Community :: Group Announcements :: Dead Rising 2
- ↑ 28.0 28.1 Steamworks Migration / Troubleshooting FAQ (Updated!) :: Dead Rising 2 General Discussions
- ↑ DiRT 3 Complete Edition - Now Available With 100% Less GFWL
- ↑ Fallout 3: Game of the Year - Update 1.7.0.4
- ↑ Announcing FlatOut: Ultimate Carnage Collector's Edition!
- ↑ Grand Theft Auto IV and Grand Theft Auto: Episodes from Liberty City updates to remove Games for Windows Live - Rockstar Games Customer Support - last accessed on 2020-03-25
- "As a result of this update the following services will no longer be available in Grand Theft Auto IV: Complete Edition - Games for Windows Live, Multiplayer mode, Leaderboards"
- ↑ Insanely Twisted Shadow Planet Goes GFWL-Free with New Indie Bundle - last accessed on 17 May 2023
- ↑ Update: GFWL Gone, progress wiped :: Iron Brigade General Discussions - last accessed on 17 May 2023
- ↑ Steamworks update! - Steam Community :: Group Announcements :: Ms. Splosion Man - last accessed on 17 May 2023
- ↑ https://steamcommunity.com/app/105420/discussions/0/522729358512938354/#c45350244936638030
- ↑ Red Faction Guerrilla Steam Edition LIVE - Steam Community :: Group Announcements :: Red Faction: Guerrilla Steam Edition
- ↑ "Gold Edition" Content Now Available! - Steam Community :: Group Announcements :: Resident Evil 5 / Biohazard 5 - last accessed on 17 May 2023
- ↑ Just Updated with Steamworks - Super Street Fighter® IV Arcade Edition, 75% off! - last accessed on 9 June 2023
- ↑ News - Toy Soldiers Product Update - last accessed on 17 May 2023
- ↑ Dawn of War II Patch Notes and Updates :: Warhammer® 40,000™: Dawn of War® II General Discussions - last accessed on 9 June 2023
- ↑ Dawn of War II - Chaos Rising Patch Notes/Updates :: Warhammer® 40,000™: Dawn of War® II - Chaos Rising™ General Discussions - last accessed on 9 June 2023