How to Add Non-Steam Games to Steam Library

Adding non-Steam games to your Steam library is a simple process that allows you to organize and launch all your games from a single platform. This guide will walk you through the steps, ensuring you can quickly integrate your favorite non-Steam titles into your Steam experience.

Similar to how you might organize your physical game collection, adding non-Steam games to your Steam library provides a centralized hub for all your gaming needs. It simplifies launching games, tracking playtime, and even utilizing Steam’s controller configurations for non-Steam titles. Why juggle multiple launchers when you can streamline everything within Steam?

Adding Games Through the “Add a Game” Feature

The primary method for adding non-Steam games involves utilizing Steam’s built-in “Add a Game” functionality. This feature is easily accessible and provides a straightforward way to integrate external games.

1. Open your Steam client.
2. Navigate to the bottom left corner and click “Add a Game.”
3. Select “Add a Non-Steam Game.”
4. A window will appear displaying a list of programs installed on your computer. Locate and select the executable file (.exe) of the game you wish to add. If the game isn’t listed, you can browse your computer’s file system to find it.
5. Click “Add Selected Programs.”

Once added, the non-Steam game will appear in your Steam library, ready to be launched. You can rename these entries to match your preferences and even categorize them within your library. This feature is particularly useful for managing a large and diverse game collection, much like keeping track of how many games are there in the world.

Customizing Your Non-Steam Game Entries

Adding a game is just the first step. Steam allows you to customize these entries for a more personalized experience. Renaming games, adding custom artwork, and even setting launch options can further enhance your library organization.

Renaming Games

To rename a non-Steam game entry:

1. Right-click the game in your Steam library.
2. Select “Properties.”
3. In the “General” tab, modify the “Name” field.
4. Click “Close.”

This is particularly helpful for games with long or confusing titles, making it easier to find what you’re looking for. You can use this same process to learn how to add ffxiv as a non-steam game.

Adding Custom Artwork

Adding custom artwork can personalize your library and make it more visually appealing. While Steam doesn’t directly support custom artwork for non-Steam games, third-party tools and community resources can help achieve this.

Setting Launch Options

Launch options allow you to modify how a game starts, enabling specific settings or configurations.

1. Right-click the game in your library.
2. Select “Properties.”
3. In the “General” tab, find “Set Launch Options.”
4. Enter the desired launch options. Each game has its own specific launch options, so consult the game’s documentation for details.
5. Click “OK.”

Troubleshooting Common Issues

While adding non-Steam games is usually straightforward, occasional issues can arise. Here are some common problems and solutions:

• Game Not Launching: Ensure the correct executable file is selected and that the game launches correctly outside of Steam.
• Controller Issues: If your controller isn’t working, try configuring it within Steam’s Big Picture mode. Steam offers extensive controller support, even for non-Steam games. If you’re having trouble finding a game within Big Picture, you can look into how to unhide games on steam deck.
• Performance Problems: Performance issues are usually related to the game itself, not Steam. Consult the game’s documentation or online forums for troubleshooting tips.

“Adding non-Steam games to your library is a great way to centralize your gaming experience,” says Alex Lee, a veteran game developer. “It simplifies game management and allows you to leverage Steam’s features for all your titles.”

Utilizing Steam’s Features with Non-Steam Games

Once added to your Steam library, non-Steam games can benefit from various Steam features. These include:

• Controller Configuration: Steam’s controller configuration tools allow you to use a wide variety of controllers with non-Steam games.
• Overlay: The Steam Overlay provides access to friends, chat, screenshots, and other features while playing.
• Playtime Tracking: Steam tracks your playtime for non-Steam games, just like it does for Steam games.

This integration seamlessly blends your entire gaming collection into a unified platform. Sometimes, you might want to selectively share what you’re playing. For tips on managing your visibility, check out our guide on how to hide a game on steam from friends.

Using a Steam Controller with a Non-Steam Game

Why Add Non-Steam Games to Your Library?

Consolidating your games within a single platform offers significant benefits. It streamlines your gaming experience, eliminates the need for multiple launchers, and allows you to leverage Steam’s features for all your titles, whether they’re from Steam or not. Much like staying up-to-date with patches through resources like how to update the game, managing your library effectively enhances your overall gaming experience.

Conclusion

Adding non-Steam games to your Steam library is a quick and easy way to centralize your gaming experience. By following these steps, you can bring all your favorite games together under one roof, simplifying launching, organizing, and enjoying your entire game collection.

FAQ

1. Can I add any non-Steam game to my Steam library? Yes, you can add virtually any game, regardless of where it was purchased.
2. Will adding a non-Steam game to Steam affect its performance? No, adding a game to Steam doesn’t alter its files or performance.
3. Do I need to purchase games on Steam to add them to my library? No, purchasing games on Steam is not a requirement for adding them to your library.
4. Can I remove a non-Steam game from my Steam library? Yes, you can easily remove non-Steam games from your library at any time.
5. Will adding a non-Steam game to Steam unlock achievements? No, achievements are specific to Steam games and won’t be unlocked for non-Steam titles.
6. Can I use the Steam Overlay with non-Steam games? Yes, the Steam Overlay generally works with non-Steam games, allowing you to access chat, screenshots, and other features.
7. Does adding a non-Steam game to Steam allow me to use Steam cloud saves? No, Steam cloud saves are typically not available for non-Steam games.