Can You Remote Play Non-Steam Games?
Yes, absolutely! You can remote play non-Steam games using the Steam platform. While Steam Remote Play is primarily designed for games purchased through the Steam store, it offers a clever workaround that allows you to stream and play games from other sources on your devices. This includes titles from other launchers, emulators, or even locally installed applications. It opens up a world of possibilities for playing your entire gaming library remotely. Let’s delve into how this is achieved and what you need to consider.
How to Remote Play Non-Steam Games
The key to making this work is the “Add a Non-Steam Game to My Library” feature within the Steam client. This isn’t about purchasing or transferring licenses; it’s simply creating a shortcut within your Steam library that allows you to launch and stream the application. Here’s the straightforward process:
- Open the Steam Client: Launch the Steam application on the computer where the non-Steam game is installed. This computer will act as your streaming host.
- Access the “Games” Menu: At the top of the Steam window, click on the “Games” menu.
- Select “Add a Non-Steam Game to My Library…”: From the drop-down menu, choose this option. A window will appear listing programs installed on your computer.
- Browse for Your Game: If the game isn’t listed, click “Browse…“. Navigate to the location where the game’s executable file (.exe) is saved and select it.
- Add the Program: Click “Add Selected Programs“. The non-Steam game will now appear in your Steam library.
Once added, the game will appear in your Steam library alongside your purchased games. You’ll also find it accessible on devices using Steam Link, or through Steam Remote Play, effectively enabling you to stream it to other computers, phones, tablets, or even your Steam Deck.
Important Considerations
- Steam Link App: To remote play on devices other than your host PC, you will need to install the free Steam Link app.
- Streaming Quality: The quality of your remote play experience heavily relies on your network connection. Both the host and remote devices need a stable and fast internet connection.
- Surround Sound: Be aware that surround sound is not officially supported when streaming and is converted to stereo.
- Voice Chat: Similarly, voice recording over streaming is not officially supported. You may need to use third-party voice chat services.
- Official Support: While this method generally works well, Valve does not officially guarantee the functionality of streaming non-Steam games. You might encounter occasional quirks or unexpected behaviors.
- No Game Ownership on Steam: Adding a non-Steam game only creates a shortcut. It doesn’t grant you ownership on Steam, and you won’t receive Steam updates or other Steam-specific features for these games.
Related Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 15 frequently asked questions regarding remote play and non-Steam games, providing additional information and clarifying potential concerns:
1. Can I Remote Play Games from Other Launchers?
Yes, absolutely. By adding the .exe file of games from launchers like Epic Games Store, GOG Galaxy, or Ubisoft Connect to your Steam library as non-Steam games, you can effectively remote play those games.
2. Does Steam Remote Play Require a Steam Account for Both Players?
For most scenarios, yes. However, Steam’s Remote Play Together feature has been expanded to allow users to invite friends to play without a Steam account using the Steam Link app and a beta version of the client. The host needs a Steam account, but the invitee does not.
3. How Do I Use Remote Play Anywhere?
To use Remote Play anywhere, ensure that your host computer is running, and you have a reliable internet connection. On your receiving device (phone, tablet, another PC) install the Steam Link app, and log in using the same Steam account. You should be able to see and access your library on the host PC.
4. Can I Transfer Game Licenses From Other Stores to Steam?
No, you cannot transfer game licenses. Adding a game from another launcher only allows you to launch it through Steam, it does not transfer ownership of the game to Steam or provide updates through Steam.
5. Is Steam Link Free?
Yes, the Steam Link app is completely free and available on all major devices and platforms, including Android, iOS, and even smart TVs.
6. Can I Remote Play Games on My Phone or Tablet?
Yes. By installing the Steam Link app on your phone or tablet, you can stream and play your games remotely as long as you have a stable internet connection.
7. Will Steam Detect Pirated Games Added to My Library?
No, Steam is not designed as anti-piracy software. It will not detect or prevent you from adding pirated games to your library as non-Steam games. However, it’s important to be aware of the legal implications of using pirated software.
8. Is it Legal to Download Games from Sites like SteamUnlocked?
No, SteamUnlocked is not a legal platform. They distribute copyrighted content without proper licenses. Downloading games from such sites is illegal and exposes you to risks like malware.
9. What Happens If I Add a Non-Steam Game?
Adding a non-Steam game will create a shortcut in your library that allows you to launch the game within Steam. It will not add a license or give you access to Steam’s automatic updating feature for that particular title.
10. How Do I Set up Remote Play Together with a Friend?
Once you launch a game, on your system tray (bottom right on Windows) there’s a steam/portal logo, click on it and select your friend to play with. Once you invite someone, they will be sent the game feed. Alt+tab back into the game.
11. Can I Play Steam Games on Non-PC Platforms?
Yes, using Steam Remote Play, you can play your Steam games on your phone, tablet, TV, or even another PC, as long as you have a stable network connection.
12. Does Steam Require a Constant Connection to Play Games?
Games purchased and played through Steam do generally require the Steam client to be online. Many games can be played offline after an initial authentication. Non-Steam games will generally not have this requirement through Steam.
13. Can I Stream My Game to a Smart TV?
Yes, if your smart TV supports the Steam Link app, you can stream your games directly to your TV. Check your TV’s app store to verify compatibility.
14. Why Is My Remote Play Not Working?
Common reasons include poor network connectivity, outdated drivers, or having remote features disabled on your host device or console. Make sure both host and remote devices are properly configured and on the same network.
15. Is the Steam Deck a Good Device for Remote Play?
The Steam Deck is an excellent device for remote play, providing a handheld and portable platform to play games from your home computer. Its built-in screen and controls make it seamless to enjoy your entire game collection from anywhere.
Conclusion
In summary, remote play for non-Steam games is a practical feature enabled by Steam’s “Add a Non-Steam Game” capability. It allows users to enjoy a much broader spectrum of games remotely, even if they are not purchased directly through Steam. While there are some limitations, such as surround sound and voice support, the flexibility and accessibility that it provides are extremely valuable. Always prioritize stable network connections for smooth gameplay, and be sure to respect copyright laws when sourcing your games. This feature allows gamers to have access to more of their library, and it’s another great tool in the arsenal of the PC gaming experience.