Have you tried to open Steam Overlay using the default hotkey, but nothing happened?

Here are some solutions that may help you address the issue.

It’s worth noting that Steam allows users to turn off the overlay for specific games.

Opening the Steam settings.

If the overlay doesn’t work in a particular game, ensure it’s not disabled for that game.

If the feature is already enabled in the Steam tweaks and for the game, apply the remaining fixes.

It’s set to Shift+Tab by default, but it’s possible for you to easily customize it.

Enabling the Steam Overlay in the Steam settings.

Steam Overlay won’t work if a different hotkey is pressed than the one selected in the prefs.

This will ideally prompt the overlay to open and resume working normally.

After that, launch the game and attempt to initiate the overlay.

Opening the properties of a game in Steam.

If it functions correctly this time, identify the conflicting app and refrain from running it simultaneously with Steam.

If such a configuration exists, Steam may prioritize performing the in-game operation rather than opening the overlay.

Start by closing Steam andreopening it with administrator privileges(Windows users).

Enabling Steam Overlay for a particular game.

Right-select “Steam” and select “Run as administrator.”

Inspect background processes and close resource-intensive programs that are running alongside Steam.

Also,Steamrecommends keeping your operating system up-to-date, socheck for pending updates and install them.

Checking the overlay shortcut key in Steam settings.

Try restarting this overlay process to rule out minor issues.

Then, find the “GameOverlayUI.exe” process, right-hit it, and select “End Task.”

Steam will automatically restart this process when you close it.

Running the Steam client as an administrator on Windows.

Then, go back to your game and attempt to fire up the overlay again.

If the issue persists, proceed to the next step.

press it, and hit “Delete” again when a confirmation box appears.

Ending the Steam Overlay process in Task Manager on Windows.

To rule out this possibility, you should verify the integrity of game files.

Steam offers a built-in feature that automatically looks for and repairs corrupt game files.

Launch Steam and head to the “Library” tab.

Deleting in-game ovelay data for a game in Steam.

Right-hit the game where the overlay isn’t working correctly, then select “Properties.”

Check for Firewall Restrictions

Steamrecommends checking firewall restrictions that could hinder overlay operation.

If you’re on Windows, temporarilyturn off the Windows Defender firewalland try activating the overlay again.

Verifying the integrity of game files in Steam.

If it works, the firewall could be the culprit.

If this is the case, you need toadd Steam to your security software’s allow-list.

It’s worth noting that some antivirus programs come with a built-in firewall.

Locating the essential folders to copy from installation location before uninstalling Steam.

If your antivirus includes this feature, add Steam to the allow-list there as well.

If reinstallation becomes necessary,back up your Steam datafirst.

After safeguarding the essential files,uninstall the Steam client on Windowsordelete the app on macOS.

After that, reinstall Steam just as you did before.

Hopefully, the above fixes have helped you revive Steam Overlay.

If the issue persists after reinstalling Steam, you should contact Steam support.