Can not take ownership of exe file in XboxGames folder (installed by Game Pass)

RossCarlson · Sep 6, 2023

Long story short I need to modify starfield.exe with a HEX editor so I can get 32:9 aspect ratio support for Starfield - I've tried everything I can think of to take permissions of the file and everything fails with access denied. I can/have taken ownership of literally every other file/folder in c:\XboxGames\Starfield *except* for starfield.exe - I assume this is some special permissions for DRM like purposes.

I've used the takeownership registry hack, I've tried elevating myself to administrator using psexec (a SysInternals tool), and nothing. When I go the standard route and click on "Change" next to owner at the top rather than getting the standard pop up to let me select a user everything just blinks and grays out.

Before I click "Change"

After I click change

Thanks!

:)

SwordofWhedon

Xbox games are encrypted and cannot be modified

Tezzarrific

they can under steam, it is needed to allow ultrawide amongst other things. besides its a bethesda game, they are made for modding.

Hahn - MSFT

Hi RossCarlson,

Welcome to Microsoft Community.

I'm Hahn and I'm here to help you with your concern.

The issue you're encountering with starfield.exe could indeed be related to DRM (Digital Rights Management) protections, which are designed to prevent unauthorized access or modification of certain files, especially in the context of games and software distributed through services like Xbox Game Pass.

If the file is protected by DRM, it may be extremely difficult or even impossible to modify it without violating the terms of service or breaking the DRM protections, which can have legal and technical consequences. Attempting to bypass or tamper with DRM systems may result in your account being banned, and it's generally not advisable.

I would recommend reaching out to the game's developer or publisher for support or suggestions. They may have official channels or updates to address such issues, or they can provide guidance on how to achieve your goal within the bounds of their terms of service and software licensing agreements.

I hope this helps. If there is anything not clear, please do not hesitate to let me know.

Your Sincerely

| Microsoft Community Support Specialist

pmt83

Hello,

Thanks for reaching out! I'm Microsoft user like you.

I will not suggest you to change .exe file as may be get corrupted or malfunctions.

However you can try to Boot your Windows into safe mode and see if you can edit file after making sure backup.

In case of additional questions, reach out back to me, and I will be happy to help and try our best to resolve your issue.

Best Regards,

Prakash

JosefLBohorquez

Hi Trevor, try taking ownership of the XboxGames folder itself and not only the .exe

Can not take ownership of exe file in XboxGames folder (installed by Game Pass)