Ubisoft to Eliminate Ubisoft Connect Requirement for Steam Games
- Ubisoft will no longer require Ubisoft Connect for games on Steam starting with Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown.
- They are testing a new “Ubisoft Connect Services Steam Tool” to maintain features like cross-progression without the launcher.
- This tool is expected to roll out to more Ubisoft titles on Steam in the future.
UPDATE 11TH SEPTEMBER 9.30AM BST: Ubisoft has made a public statement regarding changes to Ubisoft Connect.
ORIGINAL STORY 10TH SEPTEMBER 3.45PM BST: Ubisoft has announced plans to eliminate the requirement for its connection platform, Ubisoft Connect, to launch every time a game is started on Steam. Ubisoft Connect, which was previously known as Uplay, serves as both a store and launcher for Ubisoft titles and activates every time a player launches a Ubisoft game purchased through Steam or the Epic Games Store.
Beginning with Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown, the necessity for Ubisoft Connect to start will be removed. Ubisoft indicated via a post on Steam, accessible only to players who own the game, that it is currently testing a new “Ubisoft Connect Services Steam Tool” designed to maintain features such as cross-progression, cross-play, and in-game rewards without the need for the Ubisoft Connect PC launcher to be installed or active.
Ubisoft is reported to have stated, “This first version is an initial step toward a smoother and more streamlined launch experience on Steam,” as highlighted by Reddit user NostalgiaKeeper007.
According to Ubisoft, the development of the tool will continue, aiming to enhance the features and services players expect while ensuring a seamless experience on Steam.
Furthermore, Ubisoft has indicated that this tool “will progressively evolve and roll out to more Ubisoft games on Steam in the future.” However, it remains uncertain whether future purchasers will need to link their Ubisoft account to Steam, which is currently required with Ubisoft Connect.
This approach, involving dual launchers, is not exclusive to Ubisoft; however, other publishers like EA typically do not bundle their launchers with all Steam titles. Instead, a lighter version may operate in the background, minimizing user disruption.
News Courtesy of Eurogamer
