Windows 11 introduced a sleek, modern interface, but many users miss the familiarity and functionality of Windows 10. Fortunately, with the right tools and tweaks, you can restore classic Windows 10 features while enjoying the benefits of Windows 11. This guide explores how to customize Windows 11 to bring back beloved elements like the classic context menu, taskbar behavior, and nostalgic games such as Solitaire and Minesweeper.

Why Restore Classic Windows 10 Features?

Windows 11’s redesign prioritizes aesthetics, but some changes impact productivity and user experience. For example:
- The centered taskbar may feel unnatural for long-time Windows users.
- The simplified context menu hides advanced options behind extra clicks.
- Classic games like FreeCell and Hearts are no longer pre-installed.

Restoring these features can improve workflow efficiency and evoke a sense of digital nostalgia.

Restoring the Classic Windows 10 Taskbar

Windows 11’s taskbar is locked to the bottom of the screen and lacks some customization options. To revert to the Windows 10-style taskbar:

  1. Use Winaero Tweaker – A free tool that unlocks hidden Windows settings.
    - Download and install Winaero Tweaker.
    - Navigate to Taskbar settings and enable Use Old Taskbar.

  2. Move the Taskbar to the Left
    - Right-click the taskbar > Taskbar settings > Taskbar behaviors.
    - Change Taskbar alignment to Left.

  3. Enable Never Combine Mode
    - Open Taskbar settings > Taskbar behaviors.
    - Adjust Combine taskbar buttons to Never.

Bringing Back the Classic Context Menu

The Windows 11 context menu hides options like Copy as path and Open with behind a Show more options button. To restore the full menu:

  1. Registry Editor Method
    - Press Win + R, type regedit, and hit Enter.
    - Navigate to:
    HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Classes\CLSID\{86ca1aa0-34aa-4e8b-a509-50c905bae2a2}\InprocServer32
    - Right-click the Default value, modify it, and leave it empty.
    - Restart your PC.

  2. Winaero Tweaker Method
    - Open Winaero Tweaker > Classic Full Context Menu.
    - Toggle the setting and restart Explorer.

Reviving Classic Windows Games

Windows 11 no longer includes classic games like Solitaire, Minesweeper, and FreeCell. Here’s how to get them back:

Option 1: Microsoft Solitaire Collection (Free with Ads)

  • Available on the Microsoft Store.
  • Includes Klondike, Spider, FreeCell, Pyramid, and TriPeaks.

Option 2: Open-Source Alternatives

Option 3: Retro Game Packs

Additional Windows 10 Customizations

Restore the Old Start Menu

  • Use Start11 (paid) or Open-Shell (free) to bring back the Windows 10-style Start menu.

Disable Rounded Corners

  • Winaero Tweaker includes an option to revert to sharp window corners.

Bring Back the Control Panel

  • Search for Control Panel in the Start menu or pin it to the taskbar.

Conclusion

Windows 11 offers a fresh look, but for users who prefer the classic Windows 10 experience, customization tools like Winaero Tweaker and registry edits can restore familiar features. Whether it’s the taskbar, context menu, or nostalgic games, these tweaks help bridge the gap between old and new.

For more Windows customization guides, stay tuned to WindowsNews.ai!