Want to seamlessly integrate your GOG and Steam libraries? This guide will walk you through the process, explaining how to link your GOG games to Steam and enjoy the benefits of having all your games in one place. While you can't directly link the two platforms in the way you might link, say, your Playstation Network account to a specific game, there are several workarounds to achieve a similar effect.
Why Link GOG to Steam?
Before diving into the methods, let's explore why you might want to link your GOG and Steam libraries. Many gamers appreciate having all their games accessible through a single launcher. This simplifies game management, provides a unified view of your gaming library, and improves overall organization. While GOG and Steam are distinct platforms, linking them (indirectly) provides several benefits:
- Centralized Game Library: Easily access all your games without switching between different launchers.
- Improved Organization: Keep track of your entire game collection in one convenient location.
- Streamlined Game Launching: Launch games from a single platform, eliminating the need to navigate multiple launchers.
Methods to Achieve a "Linked" Experience
There isn't a direct "link" button between GOG and Steam. However, we can achieve a similar effect using these methods:
1. Using Steam's "Add a Non-Steam Game to My Library" Feature
This is the most straightforward method for many GOG games:
- Locate the game executable: Find the .exe file for your GOG game. This is typically located in the game's installation folder.
- Open Steam: Launch the Steam client.
- Add a Non-Steam Game: Go to your Steam library and click on "Add a Non-Steam Game to My Library."
- Browse and select: Navigate to the folder where your GOG game's executable is located and select it.
- Game added!: The game will now appear in your Steam library. You can launch it directly from Steam.
Important Considerations:
- Not all GOG games work: This method might not work flawlessly for all GOG games, particularly those with complex launchers or additional dependencies. Some might require specific command line arguments to function correctly from within Steam.
- No integration: This is simply a shortcut. The game is not "linked" in the sense of shared achievements or overlays. It's simply a convenient way to access it from within the Steam library.
2. Using a Third-Party Game Launcher
Several third-party game launchers allow you to import games from multiple platforms into a unified interface. These launchers often offer features that go beyond a simple shortcut, providing additional functionality like integrated achievements tracking (although even this is usually limited). Research different launchers to determine which features best suit your needs. Be cautious when downloading third-party applications and always download from reputable sources.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Game doesn't launch: Double-check that you've selected the correct executable file. You may need to run the game as administrator.
- Game crashes: This could be due to compatibility issues or conflicting software. Try verifying the game's files through the GOG Galaxy client.
Conclusion
While you can't directly link GOG to Steam, these workarounds offer a convenient solution for managing your games from one platform. By using Steam's "Add a Non-Steam Game" feature or exploring third-party game launchers, you can enjoy the benefits of a consolidated game library, streamlining your gaming experience. Remember to always download software from trusted sources to ensure the safety of your system.
