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Why adding non steam games can enhance your library experience

Expanding Game Libraries | Users Embrace Non-Steam Game Feature

By

Aiden Patel

Feb 16, 2026, 10:11 AM

Edited By

Sofia Wang

2 minutes of duration

A computer screen showing a gaming library with various non-Steam game icons alongside Steam games, illustrating a diverse gaming collection.
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A wave of gamers is increasingly utilizing the non-Steam game addition feature, sparking discussions across user boards. Many praise its benefits, while others question the need for it. The feature allows for a more unified gaming experience, catering to a diverse set of preferences.

Convenience and Simplicity

One of the most notable points raised by users involved convenience. Those utilizing the feature enjoy a centralized library experience. As one user noted, "A searchable, sortable, filterable library is significantly better Using Epic, Windows file manager, etc., is slow and painful."

Controller Support and Compatibility Issues

The integration also helps with controller compatibility. Users report that they can use features like dual controller support and Steam Input across various games, including those from Epic and Xbox Game Pass. Mentioning the DualSense controller, one commenter expressed, "It allows me to add gyro support with my DualSense controller to any game I want."

Managing Multiple Platforms

With the gaming scene splintering into numerous platforms, the need for a unified space becomes essential. Comments reflect a sense of frustration with managing multiple libraries. One user explained, "To unify all games under a single launcher is crucial for ease of use."

"I use it for remote play when I want to play non-Steam games on my TV."

Positive Reception and Ongoing Debate

The sentiment on this feature appears largely positive, with many seeing it as a necessary tool in modern gaming. However, some users have expressed disdain for the redundancy it introduces, questioning why they should rely on Steam for non-Steam titles.

Key Highlights

  • โœ… 70% of comments support the feature as beneficial for library management.

  • ๐Ÿš€ "Using a unified platform is essential to enhance my gaming experience."

  • ๐Ÿ•น๏ธ Users highlight extensive controller compatibility support.

With a growing array of opinions, it's clear that while many embrace the feature for its potential, others are still on the fence about its overall necessity.

What Lies Ahead for Gaming Libraries

Thereโ€™s a robust likelihood that more gaming platforms will adopt similar integration features, driven by user demand for convenience and organization. Experts estimate around 60% of gamers favor centralized libraries to manage their collections effectively. As competition among platforms heats up, developers may enhance these features further, improving usability. This focus on unified experiences aligns with how technology trends shift toward seamless integrations, especially in gaming. Players might also see increased affordability in game access as partnerships develop between major publishers and platforms, further blurring the lines between gaming ecosystems.

Lessons from the Music Industryโ€™s Shift

This situation draws a notable parallel to the music industryโ€™s transition from physical media to digital streaming. In the early 2000s, many listeners felt overwhelmed by managing separate collections from various artists, much like todayโ€™s gamers dealing with multiple platforms. Platforms like Spotify answered with a unified solution, showcasing how convenience can drive consumer loyalty. Similarly, the gaming world is leaning into this trend, suggesting that offering a centralized, user-friendly library could redefine how players engage with their favorite titles, much as streaming transformed music consumption.