Can I Transfer Division 2 from Ubisoft to Steam? The Definitive Answer & Comprehensive Guide
The short answer is no, you cannot directly transfer The Division 2 from your Ubisoft Connect account to Steam. While cross-progression exists between certain PC platforms, a simple transfer between the two launchers isn’t supported. This means if you bought the game on Ubisoft Connect, you’ll need to purchase it again on Steam to play it through that platform. Let’s delve deeper into this topic and related aspects.
Understanding The Division 2’s Platform Ecosystem
The Division 2’s availability across multiple platforms like Ubisoft Connect, Epic Games Store, and Steam can be a bit confusing. While the game supports cross-progression in some instances (primarily between different PC storefronts like Epic and Ubisoft Connect), the fundamental issue stems from how each platform manages game ownership and licenses.
When you purchase a game on a specific platform, you’re essentially buying a license tied to that platform’s account. This license grants you the right to download, install, and play the game through their service. Consequently, transferring that license to another platform requires a separate purchase on that platform.
Steam and Ubisoft Connect: A Symbiotic, Yet Separate, Relationship
The key thing to remember is that even when you buy The Division 2 on Steam, it still requires Ubisoft Connect to run. This is because Steam acts as a storefront and launcher, but the actual game DRM and online services are managed by Ubisoft Connect. So, buying on Steam essentially links your Steam account to your Ubisoft Connect account and grants you a Steam license, alongside the required Ubisoft Connect license.
This means that purchasing the game on Steam doesn’t magically unlock the game in your existing Ubisoft Connect library if you initially bought it elsewhere. You’re essentially acquiring a new license, specific to Steam.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About The Division 2 and Platform Transfers
Here are 15 frequently asked questions to further clarify the complexities of The Division 2’s platform ecosystem and related issues:
1. If I buy The Division 2 on Steam, will it automatically appear in my Ubisoft Connect library?
No. Purchasing The Division 2 on Steam grants you a Steam license, linked to your Ubisoft Connect account. It doesn’t automatically add the game to your Ubisoft Connect library if you already own it through another source (like directly from Ubisoft Connect). You’ll need to launch the game from Steam, which will then utilize Ubisoft Connect in the background.
2. Can I use the same character across all PC platforms (Steam, Epic, Ubisoft Connect) if I own The Division 2 on each?
Yes. The Division 2 supports cross-progression between PC platforms. As long as you link the same Ubisoft account to each platform (Steam, Epic Games Store, Ubisoft Connect), your progress will be synchronized. You can start playing on Epic, switch to Steam, and continue your game.
3. I bought The Division 2 on Steam, but it still asks me to log in to Ubisoft Connect. Why?
This is normal. The Division 2, even when purchased through Steam, requires Ubisoft Connect to handle DRM, account management, and online services. Think of Steam as a launcher that triggers the Ubisoft Connect launcher.
4. Is The Division 2 crossplay between PC and consoles (PlayStation, Xbox)?
Unfortunately, The Division 2 does not feature crossplay between PC and consoles. Players on PC can only play with other PC players (across different PC storefronts), and console players are restricted to their respective console ecosystems.
5. Is there cross-progression between PC and consoles for The Division 2?
No, there is no cross-progression between PC and consoles. Your progress on PC will not transfer to PlayStation or Xbox, and vice versa. You’d have to start a new character on each platform.
6. I have an old Ubisoft game key. Can I activate it directly on Steam?
Generally, no. Ubisoft keys purchased outside of Steam are designed to be activated on Ubisoft Connect. You can’t activate a Ubisoft Connect key directly on Steam. You may be able to activate a Steam key on Steam, adding the game to your Steam library, but that key had to be purposed for Steam activation to begin with.
7. If I get The Division 2 through a Ubisoft+ subscription, can I play it through Steam?
No. A Ubisoft+ subscription grants you access to Ubisoft games through the Ubisoft Connect launcher. It doesn’t provide a license that you can use on Steam.
8. What happens if I buy The Division 2 on Steam and I already own it on Ubisoft Connect?
You will essentially have two separate licenses for the game. One tied to your Ubisoft Connect account and one tied to your Steam account. You can play it through either launcher, using the same character progress.
9. The Division 2 isn’t available on Steam anymore. Is this true?
No, The Division 2 is available on Steam. There was a period when Ubisoft removed their games from Steam, but they have since returned, including The Division 2.
10. Does The Division 2 on Steam have Steam Achievements?
No, The Division 2 on Steam does not feature Steam Achievements. Achievements are tracked through Ubisoft Connect.
11. Will there be a The Division 3, and will it have crossplay or cross-progression?
Ubisoft has confirmed the development of The Division 3. While it’s too early to definitively say, given the industry trend, there’s a strong possibility it will feature crossplay and cross-progression across all platforms.
12. Why did Ubisoft remove their games from Steam for a while?
Ubisoft’s decision to remove their games from Steam was primarily a business decision to focus on their own platform (Ubisoft Connect) and the Epic Games Store, seeking more favorable revenue sharing terms.
13. Is The Division 2 a good game to play in 2024?
Yes, The Division 2 remains a popular and engaging game in 2024. With continued updates, a dedicated community, and a compelling gameplay loop, it offers plenty of content for both new and returning players. The immersive setting in a post-pandemic Washington D.C., combined with strategic gameplay, makes it a worthwhile experience.
14. Where can I find more information about game design and learning through games?
For insightful research and resources on game design and how games can be used for educational purposes, visit the Games Learning Society website at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/. GamesLearningSociety.org is a great resource.
15. I’m having trouble linking my Ubisoft account to Steam. Where can I get help?
Ubisoft Support is the best resource for assistance with account linking issues. Their website offers detailed guides and troubleshooting steps. You can also contact their support team directly for personalized assistance.
Conclusion: Navigating the Platform Landscape
While transferring The Division 2 directly from Ubisoft Connect to Steam is not possible, understanding the nuances of platform licenses and cross-progression can help you make informed decisions about where to purchase and play the game. Remember that purchasing the game on Steam necessitates Ubisoft Connect, and that cross-progression allows seamless transitions between PC platforms once linked. Enjoy your journey through the streets of Washington D.C., Agent!