How to Install DirectPlay on Windows 11/10 [Complete Guide]

DirectPlay is a crucial feature for gamers using Windows software, as it enables users to enjoy multiplayer games simultaneously online. With DirectPlay, individuals can participate in multiplayer sessions and connect with friends effortlessly. Installing DirectPlay on a Windows computer is straightforward, and there's no need to manually download it from any store. The operating system configures the app to accommodate the games installed on your PC. In this article, we'll explore various methods to install DirectPlay on Windows 10 and Windows 11.

Windows is swiftly advancing its technology to contend with emerging market rivals. The operating system boasts an array of superior features, with more streamlined functionalities replacing outdated ones to cater to contemporary requirements. One such vintage feature is DirectPlay, a specialized multimedia component. As part of Microsoft DirectX, it facilitates network connections over the internet, enabling multiplayer gaming in earlier editions.

In Windows 10/11, the feature is not enabled by default, but the DirectPlay files are still included in the operating system. Therefore, there's no need to download anything; you simply need to activate the feature to make it functional on your PC.

In this article, we will delve into the various methods of installing DirectPlay and explain each step in detail. Keep reading to discover how to proceed with the installation process.

How to Enable DirectPlay in Windows DirectPlay is an API (Application Programming Interface) developed by Microsoft that allows games and other applications to utilize network communication for multiplayer gaming. Although it's not as widely used now, some older games still rely on DirectPlay for online play. Here's how to enable DirectPlay on your Windows computer: 1. **Check Your Windows Version:** - Ensure you're running Windows 10, version 1803 or later, as DirectPlay is included in these versions. 2. **Open the Command Prompt with Admin Privileges:** - Press `Win + X` on your keyboard, then choose "Command Prompt (Admin)" or "Windows PowerShell (Admin)". 3. **Run the Enable-DirectPlayCommand:** - In the Command Prompt, type the following command and press Enter: ``` powershell -ExecutionPolicy Bypass -Command "Add-WindowsCapability -Online -Name 'DirectPlay.Legacy~~~~0.0.1.0'" ``` - This command will add the DirectPlay capability to your system if it's not already present. 4. **Verify the Installation:** - After the command completes, you can verify if DirectPlay is installed by typing the following command and pressing Enter: ``` Get-WindowsCapability -Online | Where-Object {$_.Name -like 'DirectPlay*'} ``` - If DirectPlay is installed, you should see output similar to this: ``` Name : DirectPlay.Legacy~~~~0.0.1.0 State : Added ``` 5. **Restart Your Computer:** - Restart your PC for the changes to take effect. 6. **Try Running the Game:** - Launch the game that requires DirectPlay, and it should now work properly. Keep in mind that even with DirectPlay enabled, compatibility issues with older games might still occur. In those cases, you might need to use compatibility modes or third-party tools to run the game successfully.

Enabling DirectPlay is a straightforward process that can be done quickly once you're familiar with the steps. There are several methods to activate the DirectPlay application, including through the Control Panel, Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM), and PowerShell. Let's explore how to install DirectPlay using these approaches.

Method 1: Enable DirectPlay using Turn Windows features on or off

Follow these steps to learn how to get DirectPlay working on your system.

Step 1. Open the Turn Windows features on or off option from the Control Panel.

Step 2. Scroll down and locate DirectPlay under the Legacy Components.

Step 3. Check both components by clicking the checkbox.

Step 4. Click "OK" and restart the device to see the changes.

The OS will set up the files and enable the app, allowing you to play games that require DirectPlay.

Method 2: Enable DirectPlay with DISM Command

Users can enable DirectPlay by using the DISM command. Follow these steps to learn how to activate the feature via DISM:

Step 1. Click on the "Windows" icon on the taskbar, and search for the Terminal application. You can follow the same steps to accomplish this using the Command Prompt as well.

Step 2. The app will open Powershell (the default window). Copy and paste the following command into the window.

dism /online /Enable-Feature /FeatureName:DirectPlay /All This command translates to: DISM /Online /Enable-Feature /FeatureName:DirectPlay /All

Step 3. Run the command and wait for DISM to set up the DirectPlay files for use.

Step 4. After the process, you will see a Restart prompt. Press Y to restart your device.

Method 3: Enable DirectPlay using PowerShell

Step 1. Press the keys Windows + X together, and then click on "Windows Terminal (Admin)" to open it.

Step 2. This action opens the Powershell window. Now, copy and paste the following command:

Enable-WindowsOptionalFeature -FeatureName "DirectPlay" -All -Online

Step 3. Run the command and wait for the operating system to finish setting up DirectPlay installation.

Step 4. Upon completion, you will see a Restart prompt on the screen. Press Y to restart your device.

Here are three straightforward methods to install or activate DirectPlay. In certain instances, apart from DirectPlay, some games might require an older version of DirectX. You can download this from Microsoft's official website.

Even after enabling DirectPlay and downloading DirectX, if you're still unable to run the Legacy games, it indicates that there's a software component not supporting the feature. In such cases, the issue lies with some software that underpins the frameworks. In the "Turn Windows features on or off" section, you'll find the ".NET Framework", which is one of the primary components of the computer.

Enable the .NET Framework as a preventive step to ensure the smooth and uninterrupted running of the games.

Final Verdict can be translated into English as " Ultimate Ruling" or "Final Judgment."

DirectPlay is already integrated into the operating system; you simply need to install it. Doing so ensures smooth, uninterrupted gameplay for multiplayer titles. There are three straightforward methods to install DirectPlay. Follow these steps to get the software up and running on your OS. You might encounter issues with supporting frameworks due to the absence of DirectX. To resolve this, download DirectX and enable other necessary frameworks to successfully install DirectPlay for your games.

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