French video game publisher Ubisoft revealed plans to eliminate the need for Ubisoft Connect, the brand’s clunky storefront-slash-launcher that boots when players open any owned Ubisoft title in Steam or the Epic Games Store.
Ubisoft shared its plans in a message only visible to Steam users who own Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown, but a new Reddit post from user /u/NostalgiaKeeper007 in the Steam subreddit features a screenshot of Ubisoft’s message. The post’s apropos title, “Finally another launcher out of steam,” works both literally and figuratively.
“Starting with Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown, we are testing a new Ubisoft Connect Services Steam tool that keeps Ubisoft game features such as cross-progression, cross-play, player safety, challenges and rewards, among others, without requiring the Ubisoft Connect PC launcher to be installed or launched.
“This first version is an initial step toward a smoother and more streamlined launch experience on Steam,” the update continues. “We will continue to iterate and improve Ubisoft Connect Services over time, with the goal of delivering the features and services players use and expect while making the Steam experience as seamless as possible.”
“Ubisoft Connect Services will progressively evolve and roll out to more Ubisoft games on Steam in the future.”
The top comment, a scathing one: “Imagine how much they had to lose to admit this was needed.” Other users echoed the sentiment, with many — including the original poster — crossing their fingers for more brands to follow suit. “I hope other see this too specially you EA. [sic]” Ouch.
“Please dear Lord roll it back to previous Ubisoft games so I can play them on steam machine without proton tricks,” another frustrated commenter wrote.
About Ubisoft Connect
Ubisoft Connect, previously known as Uplay or Ubisoft Game Launcher, is a digital hub the brand launched in late 2009 that lets players communicate with friends, track achievements, purchase Ubisoft games, and redeem points for in-game content like cosmetics.
“Ubisoft Connect is a multi-platform ecosystem of player services and the go-to destination for your Ubisoft games,” Ubisoft’s website explains. “It aims to provide the best gaming environment for players to enjoy their games and connect with each other, no matter the platform.”
“Accessible through our desktop app and directly from your games on both PC and console, Ubisoft Connect is a free service that only requires a Ubisoft account.”
The Ubisoft Connect client also serves as a digital rights management (DRM) tool; players must install and run Ubisoft Connect to play any Ubisoft game, whether purchased through the hub itself or a third-party vendor like Steam or Epic Games Store.
No, Ubisoft isn’t the only triple-A studio with a convoluted game client, but it’s a step in the right direction. 2K Games pulled its launcher in November 2024 in what they called a “complete sunset” of the software. Its removal meant gamers could launch their games in Steam without any unnecessary tinkering, updates, or interruptions.
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