Tell me more ×
Super User is a question and answer site for computer enthusiasts and power users. It's 100% free, no registration required.
up vote 1 down vote favorite

If I am playing Fallout 3 GOTY when another application puts up a dialog box on the desktop (e.g. Java auto updater needs permission) then I am subsequently unable to return to Fallout 3. Sometimes the desktop is shown (at wrong resolution) but clicking the Fallout icon on the taskbar just displays a wide but minimum height empty window (just the usual window decorations). Sometimes I can just see the dialog box but have no mouse cursor. Usually I can use task manager to kill Fallout 3.

The OS is Vista 32-bit. The desktop screen resolution is 1680x1050 but the game runs at 1280x800 for performance reasons.

I've had similar problems with other full-screen games.

Is there any way to prevent this problem or to recover from it so that I can resume the game?

share|improve this question
I normally play in full-screen Window mode to avoid situations like this. – Ramhound Jul 31 '12 at 18:29
1  
I would us alt+tab to cycle back to the game then if it still looks goofy alt enter to switch between window mode and full screen – Phillip R. Jul 31 '12 at 18:47

2 Answers

up vote 0 down vote accepted

I have the same problem with Skyrim (can't switch to it using Taskbar), but using WIN + TAB or ALT + TAB to switch back to it works.

It just takes 10-20 seconds until the screen appears again.

share|improve this answer
up vote 0 down vote

This could be a long shot but can you try setting your desktop resolution to 1280x800 prior to launching Fallout 3 and see if that enables you to switch in and out of it?

share|improve this answer

Your Answer

 
discard

By posting your answer, you agree to the privacy policy and terms of service.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.