Genshin Impact: Why Isn’t This Colossus Conquering Steam? (And Where To Actually Play It)
Ready to explore Teyvat? You’ve heard of epic quests and elemental powers. Characters are so captivating, they could inspire vast fan art. You’re prepared for Genshin Impact. However, Steam does not have the game. You might wonder why. Don’t worry. We’ll uncover the mystery quickly.
Platform Availability: Genshin Impact’s Grand Tour (Without Steam)
Let’s talk about the missing game on Steam. Despite its huge popularity, Genshin Impact is not on Valve’s platform. But you can still play it elsewhere. You just need to know where to look. There are options beyond Steam. They might surprise you.
PC Pilgrimage: Official Website & Epic Games Store
For PC players, Genshin Impact can be downloaded directly from two places, sidestepping Steam. Think of it as a scenic detour. Here are your two main options:
- The Official Genshin Impact Website: Visit the official Genshin Impact website. Click the “PC Download” button and you’re all set. It’s a straightforward method. Download the installer, install, and play. You get it straight from the source.
- Epic Games Store: The Epic Games Store has Genshin Impact ready for you. If you’re already using this platform, it’s very easy. Open the launcher, search for “Genshin Impact,” and hit install. IGN verifies this, stating, “You can go to the Epic Games Store, download it and play.” It’s a second way to access Teyvat quickly.
So remember, for PC gamers, forget about Steam. Instead, use the official website or the Epic Games Store. It’s unusual in a Steam-dominated world, but diversity is key, right?
PlayStation Paradise: PS4 & PS5 Adventures
Good news for console gamers on PlayStation. Genshin Impact launched as a PlayStation game. Whether you own a PS4 or PS5, Teyvat is waiting. Sony promotes the game, inviting players to “Uncover Teyvat’s secrets in a massive open-world RPG.” It premiered on PS4 in 2020 and joined PS5 the next year. Genshin Impact has gained a strong PlayStation following.
Mobile Mayhem: iOS & Android on the Go
Genshin Impact isn’t just for large screens. It’s also available on iOS and Android. Whether you prefer iPhone or Android devices, you can explore Teyvat anywhere. This mobile access has boosted Genshin Impact’s popularity, allowing players to enjoy it anytime. The presence on mobile ensures everyone can join in.
Xbox Expedition: Series X/S & Cloud Gaming Conquest
For Xbox enthusiasts, Genshin Impact is now available. Xbox Series X|S and Xbox Cloud Gaming support Genshin Impact from Version 5.2. Microsoft announced, “Genshin Impact has arrived on Xbox Series X|S and Cloud Gaming.” This recent expansion enhances the game’s reach. The cloud gaming option is noteworthy as it allows broader playability.
Steam Deck Saga: Venturing into Unofficial Territory
The Steam Deck is Valve’s portable gaming device. Can it run Genshin Impact? Yes, but it’s unofficial. The game is not in the Steam store. You can add Genshin Impact to your Steam library with some tech know-how. Several sources confirm this method works.
Stealth Installation: Adding Genshin Impact as a Non-Steam Game
To add Genshin Impact to your Steam Deck, follow these steps:
- Desktop Mode Dive: Switch the Steam Deck to Desktop Mode for easier access.
- Official Website Infiltration: Open a web browser. Go to the official Genshin Impact website for the download.
- Client Download Deployment: Download the PC client installer, saving it to an accessible location.
- Steam Library Insertion: Go back to Steam. Click “Add a Game”, then “Add a Non-Steam Game.”
- Executable Extraction: Browse for the installer you saved earlier.
- Proton Protocol Activation: Right-click “Genshin Impact” in your library. Go to “Properties” and select “Force the use of a specific tool.” Choose “Proton Experimental.” This allows running Windows games on Linux-based systems.
You’ll have now tricked Steam into running Genshin Impact, making it seem official.
Controller Configuration: Gamepad Gymnastics
A final important step is configuring your controller. Set it to “Gamepad with Joystick (or Mouse Trackpad).” You may also need to adjust settings in Genshin Impact to recognize the controller. Smooth controls ensure enjoyable gameplay. No one wants issues in crucial battles.
Beyond Steam’s Gates:
Alternative Avenues to Adventure
Steam is not the way to access Genshin Impact. Let’s look at other options for Teyvat. We mentioned a few already. Let’s clarify your choices apart from Steam:
Epic Games Store Encore: A Familiar Frontier
The Epic Games Store is a simple and valid option to play Genshin Impact on PC. If you use the Epic Games Launcher for Fortnite or Rocket League, adding Genshin Impact is easy. It serves as an alternative to Steam, giving PC users another official way to play.
Official Website Oasis: Direct Download Destination
The official Genshin Impact website is the main place to download the game. PC players who want to skip third-party launchers can download it directly from the source. This method ensures you get the game from HoYoverse, the creators. It also helps you stay updated.
HoYoPlay Haven: HoYoverse’s Home Turf
HoYoverse offers its own launcher named HoYoPlay. This launcher connects to all HoYoverse PC games, including Honkai: Star Rail and Zenless Zone Zero, along with Genshin Impact. If you enjoy other HoYoverse games, HoYoPlay offers easy access. It gathers their games in a single space.
Cloud Gaming Corridor: GFN’s Gateway to Genshin
For players with weaker PCs or those who like cloud gaming, GeForce NOW (GFN) offers streaming for Genshin Impact. Cloud gaming lets you play without installing the game. It runs on remote servers and streams it to your device. Genshin Impact can run on smartphones, tablets, and basic laptops, broadening access to the game.
HoYoverse Account Harmony: Linking Limitations
A quick note about account linking: if you play on Huawei or Steam servers, there are limits. “Huawei and Steam servers do not support linking HoYoverse accounts.” This applies mainly to some regions or specific platforms. Most players on PC, PlayStation, or mobile have smooth linking. Keep this in mind if using less common platforms.
Microsoft Store Mystery: Xbox App Enigma
Now, a mention of the Microsoft ecosystem. You may want to check the Microsoft Store or Xbox app for Genshin Impact. However, it is not available for direct download there. “No, you can’t find Genshin Impact through the Microsoft Store or Xbox app.” Its absence feels strange since it is available on Xbox consoles. The PC ecosystem differs. Genshin Impact chose the Epic Games Store and direct downloads for Windows PCs. Despite not being on the Microsoft Store, the game is accessible on Xbox Series X/S and Xbox Cloud Gaming, letting players experience Teyvat on these platforms.
So, that’s the story. The absence of Genshin Impact on Steam is clear now. While it is not on Steam’s digital shelves, Teyvat is open on many other platforms. Whether you are a PC player, console user, mobile gamer, or a Steam Deck fan, there is a way to enjoy your Genshin Impact journey. Venture forth, Traveler, and explore! Just not through Steam, for now.
