Ubisoft is finally removing one of the biggest frustrations surrounding its PC games, testing a new system that allows Steam players to launch supported titles without installing or opening the Ubisoft Connect PC launcher.

The change begins with Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown, but Ubisoft has already confirmed that the new system will gradually expand to additional games on Steam.

Ubisoft Connect Launcher Is No Longer Required for The Lost Crown

Ubisoft is introducing a new tool called Ubisoft Connect Services, which integrates many of the company’s existing online features directly into the Steam experience.

“Starting with Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown, we are testing a new Ubisoft Connect Services Steam tool that keeps Ubisoft game features such as cross-progression, cross-play, player safety, challenges and rewards, among others, without requiring the Ubisoft Connect PC launcher to be installed or launched.”

This means players can retain Ubisoft features such as cross-progression and challenges without being forced through a second standalone launcher after starting a game from Steam.

Ubisoft describes the current implementation as an initial test rather than the finished version.

“This first version is an initial step toward a smoother and more streamlined launch experience on Steam.”

More Ubisoft Games Will Follow

The good news is that this isn’t limited to Prince of Persia.

Ubisoft confirmed that Ubisoft Connect Services will progressively roll out to more of its Steam library, although the company hasn’t announced which games will receive support next.

That could eventually make a significant difference for franchises such as Assassin’s Creed, Far Cry and Rainbow Six, although none of those series have been specifically confirmed for the new system yet.

Ubisoft Connect itself isn’t disappearing. Instead, Ubisoft is moving the services players actually use into a more seamless Steam integration, removing the requirement to install and launch the separate PC client for supported games.

For PC players who simply want to press Play on Steam and immediately launch their game, it’s a small change that could make Ubisoft’s entire Steam presence considerably more convenient.