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So, this is something I've been wanting to throw together for a while now. In recent years, I've grown more and more disdain for Windows 10/11 and Microsoft as a whole. There's obviously a myriad of issues with Windows 10 and 11 in general (consistently spying on users, forcing updates, sudden RAM spikes, lack of customization, etc). Let's not forget that Windows 11 requires an active internet connection to even install the OS and forces updates on you no matter what. Windows is a double edged sword: It's generally good in terms of gaming and program compatibility (well, when it doesn't require me to download some patch to fix a game or software that should work but doesn't), but it's also being a nightmare to modify, killed off most of the customization, has a fucky UI, basically the issues I listed above. Now, you might ask:

"Well, Red: Why not just swap to Linux? It's a better alternative to Windows."

Well, my friend that wasn't asking anything, that's not gonna work for me. As much as I love open-source distros and operating systems, Linux really doesn't appeal to me that much. My biggest issue is the general lack of compatibility with most of the programs I use, plus there's not a lot of alternatives to said programs (that I know of or that function similarly) on Linux. It also doesn't help matters that the interface/UI really doesn't appeal to me. A lot of the themes on there look decent, but they lack of the flair I'd like to get out of my OS. I personally prefer to have a lot of style, function and substance for my GUI. I have an (admittedly autistic) obsession with Y2K-style themes, specifically alot of the old HoverDesk, Windowblinds and Winstep themes you'd find on WinCustomize or Deviantart. I also have a metric fuckload of hotkeys that allow me to CONSULT THE MACHINE SPIRIT TO SUMMON MY SERVITORS- I MEAN PROGRAMS AT WILL! (See: being a techpriest.) Also, I like the ability to have the interface disappear when I don't need it, which Winstep Xtreme allows for. Linux just doesn't let me do a lot of that stuff. (If there's any stuff that can do that on Linux, feel free to post a thing in the Shoutbox or email me at this web-zone. I'll return pizza rolls within 28 business days.)

"Then why not use Wine or set up a virtual machine?"

That is easier said than done. While I do know how to use both, I don't feel the hassle involved with resetting ALL of my stuff on a VM is really worth it. See also the reasons I put above. But anyway, I've decided to compile this (not so comprehensive) list of various alternative Windows programs for various purposes (themes, docks, app launchers, etc). Some are paid, some are free and some have shareware alternatives available. (Of course, all of these could be Free if you know where to look but don't tell anyone I said that.) Links are provided below and I'll gradually update it as I go along.