Many gamers use Steam to keep track of their playtime and achievements. However, what if you want to track playtime for games that aren’t available on Steam? Fortunately, there’s a way to add and monitor these non-Steam games within Steam’s ecosystem. This article will guide you through the process of setting up Steam to track time for non-Steam games, ensuring you can keep all your gaming stats in one place.
Why Track Non-Steam Games on Steam?
Before we dive into the how-to, let’s discuss why you might want to track non-Steam games on Steam:
- Centralized Tracking: Keep all your gaming stats, including playtime and achievements, in one place.
- Convenience: Launch non-Steam games directly from Steam, making your gaming experience more seamless.
- Consistent Stats: Maintain a consistent record of your gaming history and progress across all games.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Add Non-Steam Games to Steam
Step 1: Open Steam and Access the Library
- Launch Steam: Start by opening the Steam client on your computer.
- Go to Library: Click on the “Library” tab in the top menu to access your game library.
Step 2: Add a Non-Steam Game
- Click on “Add a Game”: In the lower-left corner of the Library screen, click on the “Add a Game” button.
- Select “Add a Non-Steam Game”: A pop-up window will appear. Choose the “Add a Non-Steam Game” option.
Step 3: Choose Your Game
- Browse for the Game: Steam will display a list of programs installed on your computer. Locate the non-Steam game you want to add.
- Select the Game: Check the box next to the game’s name and click on “Add Selected Programs.”
Step 4: Customize Game Settings (Optional)
- Access Properties: After adding the game, you can customize its settings. Right-click the newly added game in your Steam library and select “Properties.”
- Edit Game Details: Here, you can change the game’s name, add custom icons, or adjust launch options if needed.
Step 5: Launch and Track Time
- Launch the Game: Click on the game in your Steam library and press the “Play” button. Steam will now track the time spent playing this game.
- Monitor Playtime: Your playtime for the non-Steam game will be tracked just like it is for your Steam games. You can view this information in your library.
How Steam Tracks Playtime for Non-Steam Games
Steam tracks playtime for non-Steam games using a feature called “Steam Overlay.” This feature allows Steam to monitor the game’s runtime and display it in your library. Here’s how it works:
- Steam Overlay Activation: When you launch a non-Steam game through Steam, the Steam Overlay is activated. This overlay runs in the background and monitors the game’s runtime.
- Playtime Calculation: Steam calculates the total playtime based on the time the game is actively running. This data is then updated in your Steam library.
Tips for Managing Non-Steam Games on Steam
Organize Your Library
To keep your Steam library organized:
- Create a Non-Steam Games Collection: Organize your non-Steam games into a separate collection for easy access.
- Use Custom Icons: Add custom icons to differentiate between Steam and non-Steam games.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If you encounter issues tracking non-Steam games:
- Check Overlay Settings: Ensure that Steam Overlay is enabled in your Steam settings and within the game’s properties.
- Verify Game Paths: Make sure the path to the non-Steam game’s executable is correct.
Adding Games Without Installers
For games that don’t have a typical installer:
- Manually Browse for Executables: Use the “Browse” option in the “Add a Non-Steam Game” window to locate the game’s .exe file manually.
- Create Shortcuts: If necessary, create a shortcut to the game’s executable and add it to Steam using the “Add a Non-Steam Game” feature.
Conclusion
Tracking non-Steam games on Steam can streamline your gaming experience by keeping all your playtime data in one place. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily add and monitor non-Steam games, making it easier to manage your gaming activities and enjoy a more integrated gaming experience. Whether you’re organizing your library or troubleshooting issues, Steam’s features offer a flexible and convenient way to track your entire gaming history.
Feel free to use this guide to enhance your Steam experience and make the most out of your non-Steam games.
