Adding Microsoft Store and Xbox Game Pass games to your Steam library allows you to launch and manage these titles from one central platform, enhancing your gaming experience. While Steam is the dominant launcher for PC games, many players prefer to keep all their titles organized in one place. This guide walks you through the process of integrating games purchased via Microsoft Store and Xbox Game Pass into Steam, making it easier to launch, organize, and even add custom overlays or controls. Before starting, ensure you have a working Windows PC, installed Steam, and access to your Microsoft Store and Xbox accounts. No additional software is necessary, but some familiarity with Steam’s interface will help.
What You’ll Need
- A Windows PC with Steam installed
- An active Microsoft account with access to Microsoft Store or Xbox Game Pass
- The games you want to add installed or ready to install from Microsoft Store/Xbox Game Pass
- Optional: A game controller or peripherals for better experience
Step-by-Step
- Open Steam and Create a New Non-Steam Game Entry — Launch Steam, then click on the ‘Games’ menu at the top. Select ‘Add a Non-Steam Game to My Library…’ from the dropdown. In the window that appears, browse through the list or click ‘Browse…’ to locate the game’s executable file (usually found in the installation folder of Microsoft Store or Xbox app). If the game isn’t listed, you’ll need to locate its executable manually.
- Locate the Game Executable — Microsoft Store and Xbox Game Pass games are installed in specific directories. Typically, they are stored in:
C:\Program Files\\WindowsApps(requires special permissions)C:\\Users\\\YourUsername\\\AppData\\\Local\\\Packages- Find the Executable File — Use File Explorer to navigate to the game’s installation folder, then locate the main executable (.exe) file. Right-click the file and select 'Create shortcut'. Move this shortcut to a known location, such as your desktop.
- Add the Shortcut to Steam — Return to Steam's 'Add a Non-Steam Game' window. Click 'Browse...' and navigate to the shortcut you just created. Select it and click 'Open'. The game will now appear in your Steam library under 'Games'.
- Rename and Customize Your Entry — Once added, right-click the game in your Steam library and select 'Properties'. Here, you can rename it, assign custom icons, or add launch options if needed. This step helps organize your library and makes it easier to identify the game later.
- Add to Your Library and Launch — After customization, click 'Add Selected Programs'. You can now launch the game directly from Steam, even though it technically runs outside of Steam. For a seamless experience, consider setting launch options or creating custom shortcuts for convenience.
- Optional: Enable Steam Overlay or Controller Support — If you want to use Steam's overlay features, activate them in Steam settings under 'In-Game'. For controller support, ensure your game supports input devices, and configure controller settings in Steam.
Note: Accessing WindowsApps folder requires changing permissions, which can be complex. Alternatively, some games install in the default Program Files or in your custom install directory if you selected one during setup.
Common Mistakes
- Incorrect Executable Path: Always verify that the executable file is correct. Using the wrong file will prevent the game from launching properly.
- Permissions Issues with WindowsApps Folder: Accessing this folder requires changing permissions, which can be tricky. Avoid editing permissions unless comfortable with Windows security settings.
- Not Adding the Correct Shortcut: Sometimes, users add shortcuts to launcher files instead of the actual game executable, causing launch failures.
- Ignoring Game Compatibility: Some games may not run smoothly outside their native launcher due to DRM or other restrictions. Test each game after adding it.
- Forgetting to Rename or Organize: Without proper organization, your library can become cluttered, making it hard to find games later.
Tips
- Use Descriptive Names: When renaming games in Steam, include platform info or version details for quick identification.
- Create Desktop Shortcuts: For easy access, create desktop shortcuts for your games, especially if you prefer not launching from Steam every time.
- Backup Game Executables: Keep copies of game executables or shortcuts in a dedicated folder in case you need to reinstall or move files.
- Use Steam's Big Picture Mode: For console-like experience, launch Steam in Big Picture Mode to manage your non-Steam games more comfortably.
- Automate Updates: Remember that updates for these games won't be handled through Steam. Keep track of updates manually or set notifications.
Troubleshooting
If the game doesn't launch or appears in Steam but doesn't run correctly:
- Verify Executable Path: Recheck the path to the game’s executable. Make sure it points to the correct .exe file.
- Run as Administrator: Some games require administrator privileges. Right-click the executable or shortcut and select 'Run as administrator'.
- Check Compatibility Settings: Right-click the game’s executable, choose 'Properties', then go to the 'Compatibility' tab. Enable compatibility mode for your Windows version if needed.
- Update Graphics Drivers and Windows: Ensure your system is fully updated, including graphics drivers, to prevent compatibility issues.
- Reinstall the Game: If issues persist, try reinstalling the game and updating the executable path in Steam.
- Disable Antivirus Temporarily: Sometimes, security software blocks execution. Disable temporarily to test if this is the cause.
- Use Compatibility Mode for Steam: If Steam itself has issues, run Steam in compatibility mode or as administrator.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I add all Microsoft Store games to Steam?
- Not all, especially if they are UWP (Universal Windows Platform) apps that run in sandbox mode. However, many traditional Win32 games can be added similarly.
- Will adding games to Steam affect their performance?
- No, adding a game as a non-Steam game doesn't impact its performance. It simply creates a shortcut within Steam.
- Can I launch Xbox Game Pass games from Steam?
- Yes, after adding their executable files, you can launch Xbox Game Pass titles from Steam, but they still require the Xbox app or store to run properly.
- Will I receive updates for these games through Steam?
- No, updates must be managed through the Microsoft Store or Xbox app, as Steam won't handle updates for non-Steam games.
- Is this method legal and safe?
- Yes, adding shortcuts and launching games through Steam is legal. Just ensure you're complying with the game's licensing terms.
- Can I add Epic Games Store titles this way?
- While possible, it’s more complex due to Epic’s different installation structure. The method is similar but may require extra steps.
By following these steps and tips, you can streamline your gaming setup, making it easier to access all your favorite titles from one launcher. Remember, the process may require some trial and error, especially with permissions and executable locations, but once set up, it greatly enhances your gaming convenience.
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How to Add Microsoft Store and Xbox Game Pass Games to Steam Library