Yeah, when I first found out they were 'removing' the classic theme, I really wasn't happy. But knowing how Windows visual styles work, I figured they hadn't removed it, but had instead burred it deep under windows. And after doing some research, I found out I was right!

I also use Classic Shell (great application) so the Start Screen not working properly isn't really a big deal to me. But I thought I'd mention it just in case.

I really don't know of any way to disable the window fading (without disabling the maximize/minimize animations as well) unfortunately. That would be nice though.

There's more discussion on the classic theme in other places, but it is quite a small number (all things considered). I was wondering why Microsoft had removed it in the first place, and I really do think it was for their image. I think that people see computers using the classic theme, and automatically assume windows is old and outdated, despite the fact that those computers are running Windows 7. I'm sure Microsoft is aware of this, and decided that their image was more important than giving users the choice of using that interface. Actually, I think that can be said about a lot of things. I mean, is it just me, or has advanced customization been becoming less and less of a thing since Windows Vista? I think so, and I'm not a fan of that.

Anyways, there's my short rant on that particular subject. But like I said, there are some discussions about the classic theme on other websites (I even remember a few discussions here on Eight Forums). I'm not sure if you've already seen those, but check them out if you'd like.

Originally Posted by Jody Thornton

Go to the link and scroll halfway down. Is there ANY way to make Windows 8 look like that SAFELY?

Disable Aero on Windows 8? - Super User

As a quick aside (does anyone have a screenshot of the Basic Theme that is included with Windows 8?

Nobody upvoted that answer :-( I am currently banned from SuperUser by an automatic system for receiving very few upvotes.

I can't believe it's Windows 8, but it's running nicely.

You may want to tune your ClassicShell more classic: enable 3D borders, make the selection 1-colored, take the icon image from
%SystemRoot%\Branding\ShellBrd\shellbrd.dll, 1077 (this will bring the Windows emblem).

By the way, what is the background you use?

You can upload it to ITmages - image hosting I will be glad.

Nevermind. I've already found it.

Some virus scanners are reporting this file as w8classic.zip as viruses/pup/spyware just thought you should know that. Maybe that why the link in being cut off.

Well I wouldn't be too worried about it being a virus/malware, as the source code is included in the download.