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Improving your mouse response in older games

Edit your mouse settings to improve movement in game

mech warrior changing mouse settings.jpg

To make your mouse movement smoother when playing old games from 1998 on Windows, you can try adjusting the mouse pointer settings. Here’s how you can do it:

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  1. Adjust Pointer Precision (Enhance Pointer Precision):

    • This setting affects how Windows interprets mouse movements. Sometimes, turning this off can provide more predictable movement in older games.

    • Go to Control Panel (or Settings in newer versions of Windows) > Mouse.

    • In the Pointer Options tab, uncheck the box that says Enhance pointer precision.

    • Apply the changes.
       

  2. Change Pointer Speed:

    • You can adjust the pointer speed to suit your preference. A lower speed might help in achieving smoother movements in some older games.

    • In the Pointer Options tab, adjust the Pointer Speed slider to a lower setting.

    • Apply the changes.
       

  3. Disable Mouse Acceleration:

    • Mouse acceleration can interfere with precise movements in some games, especially older ones that expect a consistent mouse response.

    • While not directly available in the mouse settings, you may need to adjust this through additional software or registry tweaks. However, ensure you understand the changes you make, as incorrect modifications can affect your system's performance.
       

  4. Run the Game in Compatibility Mode:

    • Right-click on the game's executable file or shortcut.

    • Select Properties.

    • Go to the Compatibility tab.

    • Check Run this program in compatibility mode for: and select an older version of Windows that the game was designed for, such as Windows 98 or Windows XP.

    • Apply the changes.
       

  5. Lower Desktop Resolution:

    • Some older games may perform better if your desktop resolution matches the game's resolution or is set to a lower resolution.

    • Right-click on your desktop and select Display Settings.

    • Under Resolution, choose a lower resolution temporarily while playing the game.
       

These adjustments should help improve the mouse movement and overall gameplay experience in older games on a modern Windows system.

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