How to Download Ubisoft Connect on Steam Deck: A Step-by-Step Guide

Want to play your Ubisoft games on your Steam Deck? This guide provides a step-by-step walkthrough to successfully download and use Ubisoft Connect, even if you're not a tech expert. We'll cover everything from initial setup to troubleshooting common issues. Let's get started!

Getting Started: Prerequisites

Before we begin, ensure you have the following:

1. Steam Account: A valid Steam account is required to access the Steam client and manage games on your Steam Deck.
2. Ubisoft Account: You'll need an active Ubisoft account to log in and access your purchased or claimed games on the Ubisoft Connect platform.
3. Internet Connection: A stable internet connection is crucial for downloading the Ubisoft Connect client and your games. Download sizes can be significant.
4. Updated Steam Deck Firmware: Ensure your Steam Deck is running the latest stable firmware. Check for updates in the system settings for optimal performance and compatibility.

Installing Ubisoft Connect: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Downloading the Ubisoft Connect Installer

1. Open your Steam Deck's web browser (e.g., Chrome, Firefox).
2. Navigate to the official Ubisoft website. A simple web search will quickly locate it.
3. Find the download link for the Ubisoft Connect PC installer. Download the installer file. Note the download location; you'll need it in the next step.

Step 2: Adding Ubisoft Connect as a Non-Steam Game

1. Open the Steam client on your Steam Deck.
2. Click "Add a Game," then select "Add a Non-Steam Game to My Library."
3. Locate the downloaded Ubisoft Connect installer file (likely in your "Downloads" folder).
4. Select the installer. Ubisoft Connect will now appear in your Steam library.

Step 3: Configuring Proton Compatibility

Proton is a compatibility layer that allows Windows applications to run on your Steam Deck's Linux-based system.

1. Right-click Ubisoft Connect in your Steam library.
2. Select "Properties."
3. Go to the "Compatibility" tab.
4. Check "Force the use of a specific Steam Play compatibility tool."
5. Choose a recent Proton version (Proton 7 or later is generally recommended).
6. Save the settings.

Step 4: Creating a Dedicated Game Directory (Recommended)

Creating a dedicated folder for your Ubisoft games improves organization and simplifies management. This also helps prevent potential file conflicts.

1. Create a new folder. A suggested location is /home/deck/.local/share/Steam/steamapps/compatdata/YOUR_UBISOFT_CONNECT_ID/pfx/drive_c/users/steamuser/documents/ubisoft/ubisoft game launcher. Replace YOUR_UBISOFT_CONNECT_ID with the actual ID found by right-clicking Ubisoft Connect in your Steam library, selecting "Manage," and then "Browse Local Files."
2. (Optional but Helpful): Consider creating a symbolic link (symlink) to simplify file management for Steam. Numerous online tutorials explain how to create symlinks if needed.

Step 5: Launching and Installing Games

1. Launch Ubisoft Connect from your Steam library.
2. Log in using your Ubisoft account credentials.
3. You can now browse and install your Ubisoft games. Note that some games might require additional configuration or may have compatibility limitations. Online communities are valuable resources for resolving game-specific issues.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

Even with careful execution, you may encounter issues. Here are some common problems and solutions:

• Connection Errors: If you can't connect to Ubisoft Connect, restart your internet connection. Adjusting your MTU (Maximum Transmission Unit) settings might be necessary; many online guides detail how to do this. An MTU value between 1400 and 1500 is often effective.

• Launch Failures: Try updating Proton to the latest version. Ensure correct file paths. If the problem persists, consult online forums and communities for solutions specific to your issue.

• Game Crashes: Ensure your game's system requirements are compatible with the Steam Deck's specifications. Check for available updates or patches for the game itself.

Key Takeaways

• Installing Ubisoft Connect on a Steam Deck involves using Proton for compatibility.
• Creating a dedicated game directory is highly recommended for organization.
• Troubleshooting often involves checking for firmware updates, Proton version, and network settings (especially MTU).

Remember, online communities dedicated to Steam Deck and Ubisoft Connect users are excellent resources for resolving more complex issues. Happy gaming!