Install Ubisoft Connect on Steam Deck: Easy Guide

This guide provides a step-by-step walkthrough for installing Ubisoft Connect on your Steam Deck, addressing common compatibility issues and troubleshooting "Connection Lost" errors. We'll leverage Proton, the compatibility layer, to run this Windows application on your Linux-based handheld.

Before You Begin: Prerequisites

Before we start, ensure you have the following:

• A fully charged Steam Deck.
• A stable internet connection.
• Familiarity with the Steam Deck's Desktop Mode (a standard computer interface).

Installing Ubisoft Connect: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Enter Desktop Mode: Access the Steam Deck's Desktop Mode (usually via the power menu). This provides a more traditional computing environment.

2. Download the Installer: Open a web browser (Firefox or Chrome are pre-installed). Navigate to the official Ubisoft Connect website and download the Linux version of the installer. Using the wrong version (Windows) will prevent installation.

3. Locate the Installer: The downloaded installer file (.run extension) will be in your "Downloads" folder.

4. Run the Installer (Securely): Instead of double-clicking, right-click the installer file and select "Run in Terminal." This opens a command-line window, providing clearer feedback during installation. Follow the on-screen instructions.

5. Create a Dedicated Folder (Recommended): Organize your files by creating a new folder for Ubisoft Connect and its games (e.g., /home/deck/Games/Ubisoft). This improves organization and simplifies future access.

6. Add to Steam Library: Open Steam. Go to "Add a Non-Steam Game to My Library" and locate the Ubisoft Connect executable file (within the folder created in step 5). Add it to your Steam library.

7. Proton Compatibility (If Necessary): If Ubisoft Connect doesn't launch, experiment with different Proton versions. When adding the game to Steam, you can select which Proton version to use. Trying several versions is sometimes necessary due to compatibility differences between Proton and game variations. Why? Different Proton versions offer varying levels of compatibility with different games.

Troubleshooting: Addressing Common Issues

Even with careful installation, problems can arise. Let's tackle the most common ones:

"Connection Lost" Errors

This usually indicates a networking problem. Try these solutions in order:

1. Restart: Restart both your Steam Deck and your router/modem. A simple reboot often resolves minor network connectivity glitches. Did it work? If yes, great! If not, move to the next step.

2. Verify Internet Connection: Ensure your internet is working correctly on other devices. Does your internet work on another device? If yes, the problem is with your Steam Deck's configuration. If not, the problem is with your internet service.

3. Advanced Network Configuration (If Necessary): If the above steps fail, consider adjusting your MTU (Maximum Transmission Unit) settings. Search online for "adjusting MTU settings on Steam Deck" for specific instructions. This involves modifying your network's data packet size limits.

Ubisoft Connect Won't Launch

• Verify Installation: Double-check you downloaded the correct Linux version and are pointing to the right executable file when adding it to Steam.
• Verify Game Files: Within Steam, right-click on Ubisoft Connect in your library and select "Properties". Then, click the "LOCAL FILES" tab, and click "Verify Integrity of Game Files". This checks for corrupted or missing files.
• Update Software: Ensure your Steam Deck's operating system and Ubisoft Connect are up-to-date. Outdated software can cause unexpected compatibility problems.

Conclusion

You've successfully navigated the installation process! Explore your Ubisoft game library. If you encounter further issues, community forums (like the Steam community) and Ubisoft support can offer additional assistance. Remember to be patient—troubleshooting can sometimes take a little time and persistence.

Helpful Tips

• Use a file manager (pre-installed on your Steam Deck) for easier file navigation.
• Leverage the Steam community for assistance with specific problems.
• Regularly update your Steam Deck system and software to benefit from bug fixes and improved compatibility.