Xbox app and Microsoft Store won't accept XboxGames folder after reinstalling Windows 11

Villads Borup 0 Reputation points
2026-10-10T14:10:35.07+00:00

Hi,

I’m having an issue with the Xbox app and Microsoft Store that started after I reinstalled Windows 11, while keeping all my files but no apps or software. Everything worked fine before the reinstall.

Now I can’t install games that require Gaming Services because the Xbox app refuses to accept my C:\XboxGames folder.

My original folder was reported as being in use, so I renamed it to XboxGames.old and created a new duplicate C:\XboxGames folder. I then again tried reinstalling Gaming Services. However, the Xbox app still refuses to use the newly generated folder and tells me it's in use. Using any other folder tells me to try another folder.

User's image

I’ve already tried completely uninstalling and reinstalling Gaming Services multiple times, along with other standard troubleshooting steps, but nothing has fixed it.

Some additional checks:

  • My C: drive is healthy and has around 480 GB free.
  • Gaming Services is installed and reports status Ok.
  • The hidden .GamingRoot file exists on C:.
  • sfc /scannow found no integrity violationsUser's image

Has anyone encountered this after reinstalling Windows 11? I’m looking for a solution beyond reinstalling Gaming Services or resetting the Xbox app and Microsoft Store again.

Thanks :)

Windows for home | Windows 11 | Files, folders, and storage
0 comments

1 answer

Sort by: Most helpful
Most helpful Newest Oldest
  1. Hendrix-V 19,940 Reputation points Microsoft External Staff Moderator
    2026-10-11T04:36:32.05+00:00

    Hi Villads Borup,

    Since Gaming Services reports OK, the drive has sufficient free space, and sfc /scannow found no integrity issues, I would avoid reinstalling Gaming Services again for now.

    Instead, please try the built-in Drive compatibility tool:

    • Open the Xbox app.
    • Select your profile picture > Support.
    • Select Drive compatibility tool.
    • Follow the prompts, then restart Windows and test the installation again.

    If the problem remains, also run Profile picture > Support > Gaming Services Repair Tool > Start Troubleshooting. This is Microsoft's dedicated tool for Gaming Services installation and related Xbox app issues.

    If neither tool resolves the folder detection issue, I’d recommend contacting Xbox Support, as further investigation may be needed rather than repeatedly reinstalling the same components.

    I hope this helps get the installation location recognized again.

    Was this answer helpful?

Your answer

Answers can be marked as 'Accepted' by the question author and 'Recommended' by moderators, which helps users know the answer solved the author's problem.