Ubisoft Begins Removing Mandatory Connect Launcher From Steam Games, Starting With Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown
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10.09.2026 22:59
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2 min read
French publisher Ubisoft has taken a long-awaited step toward PC gamers by testing launches for its Steam titles without requiring users to open and keep its proprietary Ubisoft Connect launcher in memory. The metroidvania Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown became the first game to feature the new authorization system.
Background services replace heavy launcher
In a fresh content update for the game, the developers integrated a library called Ubisoft Connect Services. This component handles all online account functions—cross-platform cloud saves, in-game reward synchronization, online challenges, and anti-cheat systems—while running as an unobtrusive background process inside the game itself.
As noted by GamesRadar+, this brings a long-awaited end to the “double launch” hassle for users. Players no longer need to wait for a third-party client to update, enter passwords, or keep an extra app running during a gaming session.
The update is particularly significant for handheld owners. As GamingBolt highlights, third-party publisher clients on devices like the Steam Deck and Windows handhelds frequently caused crashes, broke controls, and froze upon losing internet connection during sleep mode. Launches now happen natively right from the Steam library.
Phasing out forced software
The metroidvania Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown on Steam launched in August 2024 and until recently strictly required a pre-installed Ubisoft Connect launcher.
Ubisoft clarifies that the current implementation is the first stage of a program to simplify access to its catalog in third-party storefronts. The company is not abandoning Connect services altogether, but recognizes the need to remove unnecessary barriers for PC players.
The main intrigue for the community is the schedule for bringing the technology to other franchises. Ubisoft officially confirmed its intention to scale the Connect Services system to its remaining titles on Steam, though the publisher will announce specific update timelines for flagship franchises such as Assassin’s Creed, Far Cry, and Rainbow Six Siege separately.
