Ubisoft is currently testing a new approach to launching its games on Steam, aiming to reduce the friction caused by its proprietary Ubisoft Connect launcher. For years, playing a Ubisoft game purchased through Steam has required users to first open Steam, then launch Ubisoft Connect, and finally start the game itself. This multi-launcher system is a common practice among publishers like EA and Rockstar as well.
The publisher's initial foray into this streamlined experience began with the launch of Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown. While the full Ubisoft Connect application will no longer be necessary to launch these specific titles, its services will still run in the background. This allows for features such as cross-progression, cross-play, player safety, and the management of challenges and rewards through a new "Ubisoft Connect Services Steam tool." This approach is reminiscent of how Diablo 4 requires a Battle.net account but does not necessitate running the Battle.net application to play.
According to a Steam announcement, this initial version represents "an initial step toward a smoother and more streamlined launch experience on Steam." Ubisoft plans to continue developing and improving these services with the goal of making the Steam experience as seamless as possible for players. This new method is also slated to be rolled out to other Ubisoft games in the future.
This move may address long-standing player frustrations with Ubisoft Connect. In a previous assessment of PC gaming launchers, Ubisoft Connect was ranked near the bottom, with its most notable feature being the addition of more in-game monetization and earning opportunities to already content-rich games. The inconvenience of navigating multiple launchers has, in some cases, deterred players from engaging with titles, even when they might otherwise be inclined to play.