Why Can’t I Play Ubisoft Games on Steam Deck?
Direct Answer:
Ubisoft games are not compatible with the Steam Deck due to the company’s decision to only release new titles on their own store or the Epic Games Store. This means that games like Assassin’s Creed, Far Cry, and Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon will not be available on the Steam Deck, at least not as a direct download.
Why is Ubisoft Not on Steam?
In 2019, Ubisoft announced that it would be abandoning Steam as a digital distribution platform and instead focus on releasing its games on its own store, known as the Ubisoft Store, and the Epic Games Store. This decision was made as part of a broader strategy to increase the company’s control over its games and relationships with players.
What is the Ubisoft Store?
The Ubisoft Store is a digital storefront that allows players to purchase and download Ubisoft games directly from the company. The store offers a range of benefits, including exclusive content, early access to betas, and a more streamlined purchasing process. The store is available on PC, as well as on consoles like the PlayStation and Xbox.
Why is Ubisoft Focusing on the Epic Games Store?
Ubisoft’s decision to release its games on the Epic Games Store is part of a broader trend in the gaming industry. The Epic Games Store offers a more favorable revenue split for developers compared to Steam, which takes a 30% cut of all game sales. The Epic Games Store also offers more control over game releases and updates, as well as a more direct relationship with players.
What Are the Consequences for Steam Deck Owners?
For Steam Deck owners, this means that they will not be able to purchase or download Ubisoft games directly on their device. This may be a significant disappointment for fans of the company’s games, who may be looking forward to playing them on the go. However, it’s worth noting that there are still many great games available on the Steam Deck that don’t require Ubisoft titles.
Table: Ubisoft Games Not Available on Steam Deck
| Game Title | Platform | Release Date |
|---|---|---|
| Assassin’s Creed Odyssey | PC, Console | October 2018 |
| Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon Wildlands | PC, Console | February 2017 |
| Far Cry 5 | PC, Console | March 2018 |
| The Division 2 | PC, Console | March 2019 |
| Rainbow Six Siege | PC, Console | December 2015 |
Can I Play Non-Steam Games on Steam Deck?
Yes, it is possible to play non-Steam games on the Steam Deck, but it requires some setup. To play a non-Steam game on the Steam Deck, you will need to enable the "Steam Beta" on both your Steam client and your Steam Deck. From there, you can select the game you want to install and Steam will check if any PC on your network already has the game installed.
Conclusion:
Unfortunately, Ubisoft games are not compatible with the Steam Deck due to the company’s decision to release its games on its own store and the Epic Games Store. While this may be disappointing for some fans, there are still many great games available on the Steam Deck that don’t require Ubisoft titles. By enabling the Steam Beta and following the steps outlined above, Steam Deck owners can still play non-Steam games on their device.