Navigating the world of PC gaming often means juggling multiple platforms and libraries. While Steam remains the dominant hub for many gamers, not all titles from the Microsoft Store or Xbox Game Pass can be added directly to your Steam collection. Fortunately, there are effective methods to incorporate these games into your Steam library, allowing for a more streamlined and organized gaming experience. This guide walks you through the process of adding UWP-based games—those built on the Universal Windows Platform—to Steam, so you can launch, organize, and even customize them just like native Steam titles.
When you purchase or download games from the Microsoft Store or through a PC Game Pass subscription, they are often built on UWP (Universal Windows Platform). This architecture was originally designed for tablets and Windows RT devices, which struggled to gain widespread adoption. As a result, many UWP apps, including games, are stored and run differently than traditional Windows applications. While this setup enhances security and reduces piracy, it also complicates the process of adding these titles to Steam, since they can’t be added as typical executable files. Steam’s native system doesn’t recognize UWP apps, preventing direct integration.
However, by using specialized software like UWPHook, you can bypass these restrictions. This utility allows you to “reveal” UWP games to Steam’s framework, making it possible to add them as non-Steam games. Consequently, you gain the ability to launch these titles from the Steam library, assign custom artwork, and keep everything neatly organized. This approach effectively bridges the gap between the Microsoft Store ecosystem and Steam’s user-friendly interface.
Installing and Using UWPHook
UWPHook is a straightforward tool created by developer Brian Lima that simplifies the process of integrating UWP games into Steam. With it, you can generate a list of installed UWP apps, select the titles you wish to add, and export them directly into your Steam library. To begin, download the installer from Lima’s official GitHub page. The installation process is quick and straightforward, and once completed, you’re ready to start adding your Microsoft Store and Game Pass titles.
Once UWPHook is installed, follow these steps:
- Launch the UWPHook application.
- Click the refresh button located at the top-right corner to scan your system for all installed UWP apps.
- Browse through the list to find your Microsoft Store or Xbox Game Pass titles. Select the checkbox next to each game you want to add.
- Hit the “Export selected apps to Steam” button at the bottom right.
- After a brief moment, a notification will confirm the successful addition.
- Restart your Steam client to see the new entries in your library.
From this point, you can launch these games directly from Steam, just like any native title. Many games downloaded through a Game Pass subscription do not require the Xbox app to be running during gameplay, though some titles might still need it active in the background.
Connecting to SteamGridDB for Custom Artwork
Adding visual flair to your library improves navigation and overall aesthetics. Since UWP games added via UWPHook lack artwork by default, you can enhance their appearance through SteamGridDB, a community-driven database of game logos, backgrounds, and icons. To utilize this feature, you’ll need to generate a Steam API key, which allows UWPHook to automatically fetch relevant artwork.
Follow these steps:
- Visit the SteamGridDB website.
- Log in with your Steam credentials, ensuring your Steam Authenticator is ready.
- Access your account preferences and generate an API key.
- Open UWPHook and click the gear icon to open settings.
- Paste your API key into the designated field and save the settings.
Once configured, UWPHook will automatically search for and download appropriate artwork for the UWP titles you’ve added. You can further customize or update artwork manually within Steam if desired. For more advanced customization, exploring resources like the official Game Dev Tycoon modding API can offer additional insights into modifying game assets and enhancing your library’s appearance.
Adding Microsoft Store and Xbox Game Pass titles to your Steam library is a practical way to keep all your games accessible from one central hub. By leveraging tools like UWPHook and integrating with SteamGridDB, you can enjoy a cohesive and visually appealing gaming setup, regardless of where your games originate.