Windows 10: Icons broken after switching from Game window to desktop

I have stumbled on a quite peculiar problem.

I have a 1st generation Surface Book with a fully updated Windows 10.

I installed a game from Steam Dark Souls II, then alt+tabbed it, and after that desktop icons become "broken".

All desktop icons were grouped at the same location, one above the other. Their active area spanned the whole screen, not just the icon.


https://imgur.com/LOPkJIe


The image above shows me hovering the mouse cursor on top of the screen, the icon itself is nowhere to be seen, but its active area spans the whole top row.

I've tried to hide system desktop icons My Computer and Recycle Bin and delete all programs shortcuts, and then add again, but the problem was the same. I tried to change resolution, DPI scaling, connect another monitor, restart, shut down, enter tablet mode, with no success in resolving the problem.

I also tried to restart the game, change game resolution settings, alt+tab again, but the problem stayed the same.


In the dialog to show system desktop icons, I noticed that icons aren't shown...or probably are but I can't find them.


https://imgur.com/nxG61Xx


Only desktop icons are affected. Taskbar, wallpaper, lock screen, mouse cursor, are all fine.


Anyone got an idea on how to solve this?


Thank you.



***Original title: Icons "broken" after alt-tabbing a game on Surface Book***

:)

 

Remove Linux Desktop Icons

I am not sure whether this will work (Ubuntu does not have icons like that on the desktop by default), but I suggest opening the trash bin and sweeping the icons into the window showing the trash bin.

 

Windows vista x64 computer icon always changing

what icons are you referring to?
In the Windows Explorer list or desktop?

 

Desktop Icons Won't Stay Put

Hi Laurie,

As per the issue description I understand that you are facing issues with desktop icons.

I suggest you try the following step in order to arrange the icons.

• Right click on the desktop.
• Click on view
• Check the option auto arrange icons.

Let us know if this helps.

Thanks.