Can You Mod Non-Steam Games on Steam? A Comprehensive Guide
The short answer is: no, you cannot directly mod non-Steam games through the Steam Workshop. While you can add a non-Steam game to your Steam library as a shortcut, Steam lacks the necessary integration to handle mods for these games automatically. This is because Steam’s modding infrastructure, primarily the Steam Workshop, is designed to work specifically with games that are officially purchased and managed through the Steam platform.
This article dives deep into the specifics, explaining why this limitation exists and exploring alternative methods for modding games outside of the Steam ecosystem. We’ll also address common questions surrounding adding non-Steam games to Steam and the implications it has for your gaming experience.
Why Steam Can’t Mod Non-Steam Games
The inability to directly mod non-Steam games via Steam stems from the way the Steam Workshop is engineered. The Workshop is a centralized hub for distributing mods, with Steam handling all the technical aspects such as downloading, installing, and managing those mods for Steam-purchased games.
When you add a non-Steam game to Steam, you’re essentially just creating a shortcut. Steam does not ‘recognize’ that you have a copy of the game that is the same as the Steam version, it treats it like any other external application you add. This means Steam has no understanding of the game’s files, folder structure, or modding capabilities. Consequently, Steam cannot:
- Download mods directly from the Steam Workshop for non-Steam games.
- Automatically install those mods into the correct game folders.
- Manage or update the mods for you through the Steam interface.
It’s crucial to understand that adding a non-Steam game only allows you to launch the game through Steam. It does not link the game to a Steam account or enable Steam to handle the game’s specific modding needs.
Alternative Ways to Mod Non-Steam Games
If you’re looking to mod a game that you didn’t purchase on Steam, you’ll need to explore alternative methods. Here are some common approaches:
- Manual Installation: This is the most traditional way of installing mods. You would typically:
- Download mods from reputable websites like Nexus Mods, ModDB, or dedicated forums for the specific game.
- Unpack or copy the mod files to the game’s installation folder.
- Follow specific installation instructions, which may involve editing game configuration files. This method requires more technical knowledge.
- Mod Managers: Many games have dedicated mod managers created by the community. These tools can often automate mod installations, enable, disable mods and sometimes include advanced mod features. Mod managers can often work outside of the steam workshop.
- Game-Specific Modding Communities: Look for forums or online communities dedicated to the game you’re trying to mod. These are often the best places to find resources, tutorials, and help with the modding process. They’ll be your most helpful resource for game-specific modding.
- Epic Games Mod Marketplace: The Epic Games Launcher can handle mod installations for games sold on the Epic Games Store. This works in a similar fashion as the Steam Workshop, with the Epic Games Launcher handling the downloading and installation of compatible mods.
- GOG Galaxy: For games purchased on GOG (Good Old Games), the GOG Galaxy client can sometimes offer community mods and additional game files. It depends on the game being offered and the specific game.
These alternatives require you to manage your mods outside the Steam ecosystem, using specific tools and resources for each game.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
To further clarify the complexities surrounding non-Steam games and modding on Steam, here are 15 frequently asked questions:
1. Can Steam recognize a non-Steam game as the same game as one purchased on Steam?
No, even if you have an identical game purchased outside of Steam, the Steam client won’t recognize it as the official version. Adding a non-Steam game to Steam creates a shortcut, not a connection to Steam’s game database.
2. Can I use Steam Workshop mods with non-Steam games?
No, Steam Workshop is exclusive to games officially purchased through Steam. It cannot manage or install mods for non-Steam games.
3. What happens if I add a non-Steam game to Steam?
It will only create a shortcut within the Steam client, allowing you to launch the game through Steam. It does not provide any Steam features like cloud saves, workshop integration, or verify proof of ownership on your Steam account.
4. Can I get banned for adding a pirated game to Steam as a non-Steam game?
Adding a pirated game as a non-Steam game won’t cause a direct Steam ban. However, the risk comes from possessing the pirated game, which is illegal.
5. Does Steam care about what games I add as non-Steam games?
Steam doesn’t verify or manage the game itself. However, Steam does not endorse or support any activity considered illegal, such as piracy.
6. Can I download Steam Workshop mods manually and then use them with a non-Steam game?
No, you cannot directly download Steam Workshop files. They are integrated in a way that only works with the Steam client.
7. Can I transfer a game license from another platform like Epic Games to Steam?
No, game licenses are platform-specific. You cannot transfer a game purchased on Epic, GOG, or any other platform to Steam. You can add them as non-Steam games however.
8. Can I use Steam overlay with non-Steam games?
Yes, Steam overlay (the in-game menu) should work with most non-Steam games added as shortcuts. This can allow you to track your time or talk to friends through Steam.
9. Are Steam Unlocked games safe to add as non-Steam games?
Steam Unlocked is not a legitimate source for games, and they are often considered a source of pirated software. There is a high risk of downloading malicious software along with pirated games from Steam Unlocked. You should always source games from official stores. Steam will not ban you for adding games downloaded from the internet, but may ban you for other infractions, including piracy.
10. What are Steam’s hidden games?
Steam allows you to hide games from your library. This makes them invisible in your regular library view, but the game is not deleted. They can still be found via other means on the Steam client.
11. Can I use a mod manager for a non-Steam game I added to Steam?
Yes, mod managers can often work independently of Steam. You will still need to install and manage them manually.
12. Will my non-Steam games be deleted if I uninstall Steam?
No, your non-Steam game files will not be deleted when you uninstall Steam. However, you may need to recreate your shortcuts in the new Steam client when you reinstall Steam.
13. Is it illegal to download pirated games?
Yes, downloading and distributing pirated games is illegal and can have legal consequences.
14. Can I play multiplayer with a GOG copy of a game against someone with the Steam version?
Generally, it depends on the game. Many older games do not have crossplay functionality. If the game uses GOG Galaxy or Steam integration, the two users might need to be on the same platform for multiplayer to work. Sometimes community patches may enable crossplay but it isn’t guaranteed.
15. Why is Steam better than other game launchers?
Steam provides the largest gaming library, a large community of players, and a rich integrated modding experience. Each launcher however does have benefits, so the better option depends on the user.
Conclusion
While Steam is a fantastic platform for gaming and modding, it’s essential to understand its limitations regarding non-Steam games. You cannot directly use the Steam Workshop to mod non-Steam games. However, you can still mod them through manual methods, mod managers, and dedicated community resources, allowing for vast customizations outside the Steam ecosystem. By understanding the differences between a Steam game and a non-Steam shortcut you will be better equipped to manage and customize your gaming experience.