Ubisoft games on Steam may soon no longer require the pesky Connect launcher, thanks to a new tool the publishers are testing

Ubisoft has confirmed a Steam announcement about testing a new Ubisoft Connect Services Steam tool, which allows players to access features like cross-progression and cross-play without installing the Ubisoft Connect launcher. The tool is initially being tested on Prince of Persia The Lost Crown, visible only to owners of the game on Steam. The announcement, shared on Reddit, states the tool aims to streamline the Steam experience by removing the need for Ubisoft's launcher while maintaining game features. Ubisoft describes this as an initial step toward a smoother launch experience on Steam, with plans to expand the tool to more games over time.

The tool is designed to eliminate the need for Ubisoft's PC launcher, which has long been criticized by players for adding unnecessary steps when launching games. By integrating Ubisoft Connect Services directly into Steam, the publisher seeks to reduce friction for players who prefer not to use separate launchers. The announcement emphasizes improving the Steam experience while maintaining core features like challenges, rewards, and player safety. Ubisoft has not widely publicized the development, despite its potential to address a common player frustration.

If successful, the tool could gradually roll out to Ubisoft's entire library of Steam games, removing a long-standing annoyance for players. The initial testing phase focuses on Prince of Persia The Lost Crown, with no timeline provided for broader implementation. The move aligns with growing industry efforts to simplify PC gaming experiences by reducing reliance on proprietary launchers. Ubisoft has not yet responded to requests for further details about the testing timeline or scope.

Players who own Prince of Persia The Lost Crown on Steam can currently view the announcement in the game's Steam news feed. The tool is part of Ubisoft's broader goal to deliver features players expect while making the Steam experience more seamless. Ubisoft Connect Services will evolve over time, with no specific features or games confirmed for future updates. The publisher has not indicated whether additional incentives or changes will accompany the tool's rollout.