Do You Need Uplay for Far Cry 3 on Steam? The Definitive Guide
Yes, absolutely. If you’re looking to play Far Cry 3 on Steam, you will inevitably need Ubisoft Connect, previously known as Uplay. While you may purchase the game through Steam, the integration with Ubisoft’s platform is mandatory. This means that when you launch Far Cry 3 through Steam, Ubisoft Connect will launch as well, and you’ll be required to log in with a Ubisoft account. This integration is not optional; it is part of how Ubisoft’s games function, regardless of where you buy them. Understanding how these two platforms interact is key to a seamless gaming experience. You are effectively purchasing a license on Steam, and Ubisoft Connect acts as the game’s digital rights management (DRM) and central hub. The game will not run without it.
Understanding the Interplay Between Steam and Ubisoft Connect
Why Ubisoft Connect is Necessary
It’s important to understand why Ubisoft games like Far Cry 3 require their own launcher, even when purchased on Steam. Ubisoft Connect acts as a central hub for all things Ubisoft, including game libraries, social features, cloud saves, and access to online services like multiplayer. Even when you buy a game on a third-party platform such as Steam, you’re still buying a license to play the game that ties into your Ubisoft account. The game’s actual files are linked to your account via Ubisoft Connect.
How it Works in Practice
The process is relatively straightforward, albeit requiring some extra steps:
- You purchase Far Cry 3 on Steam.
- You launch the game from your Steam library.
- If not already installed, Ubisoft Connect will prompt you to install the client.
- You’ll then need to log in to your existing Ubisoft account or create a new one if you don’t have one already.
- The game will then be linked to your Ubisoft account, and you can begin playing.
- In subsequent launches, both Steam and Ubisoft Connect may be automatically run, depending on your settings.
The User Experience
While the initial setup may seem a little cumbersome due to the requirement of a separate launcher and account, this ensures consistent access to your game from any platform that uses your Ubisoft account. It also provides access to community features, achievements, challenges and reward systems for the game, which are tied to your account. While there is an additional layer of software in the form of Ubi Connect, you do not require it to be constantly opened while playing. Once UbiConnect authenticates the game, it can often be run from Steam without the Connect App being open.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Far Cry 3 and Ubisoft Connect
Here are 15 FAQs to give you a comprehensive understanding of how Far Cry 3 and Ubisoft Connect work together.
1. Can I play Far Cry 3 without Ubisoft Connect if I bought it on Steam?
No, unfortunately, Ubisoft Connect is mandatory to play Far Cry 3, regardless of whether you purchased it on Steam. The game is linked to your Ubisoft account through this platform.
2. Do I need to create a Ubisoft account to play Far Cry 3 on Steam?
Yes, you will need to create a Ubisoft account if you don’t have one already. This account is necessary to launch the game and access its features.
3. If I buy a Ubisoft game on Steam, does it also appear in my Ubisoft Connect library?
Yes, after the initial setup and linking of your Steam and Ubisoft accounts, the game will appear in your Ubisoft Connect library.
4. What happens if I try to launch Far Cry 3 on Steam without Ubisoft Connect installed?
Steam will prompt you to install Ubisoft Connect and log in before you can launch the game.
5. Can I transfer my Far Cry 3 purchase from Steam to Ubisoft Connect, and vice-versa?
No, game licenses are not transferable between Steam and Ubisoft Connect. If you purchase on Steam you must always launch it through Steam to play, however it will always be activated in the Connect launcher.
6. Does Ubisoft Connect run in the background while I’m playing Far Cry 3?
Yes, Ubisoft Connect will generally run in the background to provide access to its features like friends lists, game status and cloud saves. However, you can often shut the app down entirely after the authentication process.
7. Can I disable the Ubisoft Connect overlay while playing Far Cry 3?
Yes, you can disable the in-game overlay in the Ubisoft Connect settings to improve game performance and experience if desired.
8. Is there any way to play Far Cry 3 completely offline?
Yes, Far Cry 3 does include an offline mode for single-player once the game has been activated. You can enjoy the campaign without an active internet connection.
9. Will my game saves be shared between Steam and Ubisoft Connect?
Your game saves are generally linked to your Ubisoft account and are usually synchronized through Ubisoft Connect cloud saves. However, they will not usually be accessible if you launch it through Steam without Ubi Connect also being active.
10. If I have a Ubisoft game on another platform, can I link it to Steam?
No, Ubisoft Connect accounts can be linked to various platform accounts (PSN, Xbox, Switch), but this does not transfer games across platforms. You cannot transfer a game purchase between them.
11. Why does Ubisoft require a separate launcher, when Steam already handles games?
Ubisoft uses its own launcher to manage all of its games from a single account, providing consistent features and services regardless of where the game was purchased. This is standard practice across most game publisher’s digital platforms.
12. Is Far Cry 3 cross-platform?
No, Far Cry 3 is not cross-platform. Save data, gameplay and online multiplayer is typically limited to the platform you purchased the game.
13. Are there any benefits to having a Ubisoft account, other than playing Far Cry 3?
Yes, a Ubisoft account gives you access to rewards, achievements, friend systems and cross-game features like in-game unlocks across the Ubisoft universe.
14. What happens if I uninstall Ubisoft Connect after launching Far Cry 3 on Steam?
You will not be able to launch Far Cry 3 if Ubisoft Connect is not installed and linked to the game licence. You will be prompted to reinstall it.
15. Does having Ubisoft Connect affect my computer’s performance when playing Far Cry 3?
Ubisoft Connect might have a minor impact on performance, but most modern systems handle it without noticeable issues. It depends on your PC’s specifications, and you can disable the in-game overlay to minimize any impact.
Conclusion
To wrap things up, you absolutely need Ubisoft Connect to play Far Cry 3 on Steam. The game requires Ubisoft’s ecosystem to function correctly, providing a central hub for your game library, account management, and access to online features. While it might seem like an extra layer, understanding the interplay between the two platforms ensures a smoother gaming experience. With the information provided, you should now be well-equipped to get started with Far Cry 3 on Steam. Happy gaming!