FAQ

Does Homebase replace the Windows shell? No. It's a normal program that runs full screen. The desktop, taskbar and your other programs are still there; Home + B or the quick menu's Desktop mode takes you to them.

Does it need an internet connection or an account? No. Your library is read from disk. The internet is only used for things that need it anyway: streaming apps, Steam artwork downloads and site icons.

Which stores are supported? Steam directly, plus any game or program you can point at. Other launchers' games can be added from their install folders or with Add app.

Can I use my own browser? Web apps use your default browser when it's Chromium-based (Edge, Chrome, Brave and others), otherwise another installed Chromium browser.

Can the controller drive the whole PC? Mostly. Homebase itself, apps and websites, desktop mode, launchers and dialogs all work with it, and games without controller support can use it as a mouse and keyboard. The exceptions are Windows security prompts (UAC), which no program can send input to, and anti-cheat games that ignore simulated input.

Does it work without a controller? Yes. Keyboard and mouse work everywhere, including paste in text fields and right-click for options.

Can it start with the PC like a console? Yes: Settings → Start with Windows and Start in full screen.

Is anything sent anywhere? No. Homebase has no telemetry. Profiles, PIN hashes and settings stay in the local data folder.

Who makes it? Homebase is written by Rique and released under the GPL-3.0-or-later license.