Streamline Your Library: The Ultimate UWPHook Setup Tutorial
PC gaming is fractured across multiple launchers. Steam, Epic Games Store, and GOG all compete for your attention. However, Windows Store and Xbox App games (Universal Windows Platform, or UWP) are the hardest to centralize. They lock their executable files behind strict Windows permissions.
UWPHook solves this problem. This light, open-source tool lets you add any UWP or Xbox Game Pass title to Steam. Doing this unlocks the Steam Overlay, enables Steam Controller support, and centralizes your library. Here is how to set it up perfectly. Why Use UWPHook?
Steam Input: Use Nintendo, PlayStation, or generic controllers seamlessly with Xbox App games.
Steam Overlay: Chat with friends and take screenshots without leaving your game.
In-Home Streaming: Broadcast Windows Store games to your Steam Deck or TV via Remote Play.
Clean Interface: Keep your entire digital ecosystem inside one launcher. Step 1: Download and Install UWPHook Navigate to the official GitHub repository for UWPHook. Download the latest executable installer (UWPHook.exe). Run the installer and follow the on-screen prompts. Launch the application once installation finishes. Step 2: Link Your UWP Games Open UWPHook.
Click the Refresh button (circular arrow icon) in the top right corner. The software will scan your PC for installed Windows Store apps and games. Scroll through the generated list.
Check the box next to every game you want to export to Steam.
Click the Export selected apps to Steam button in the bottom right corner. Step 3: Restart and Verify Steam
Completely close Steam. Click Steam in the top left corner of the Steam client and select Exit. Relaunch Steam. Open your Library tab.
Look for the newly added titles. They will appear as non-Steam shortcuts. Launch a game through Steam to test functionality. Step 4: Add Custom Artwork (Optional)
Steam shortcuts created by third-party tools look generic. You can fix this easily with custom grid art. Go to SteamGridDB in your web browser.
Search for your game and download your preferred Capsule, Hero, and Logo images.
In Steam, right-click the generic game artwork and select Manage > Set custom artwork. Upload your downloaded images to match the Steam aesthetic. Troubleshooting Common Issues
Steam Overlay Not Working: Ensure you run Steam as an administrator if the overlay fails to appear. Some competitive UWP games feature strict anti-cheat software that blocks third-party overlays entirely.
Games Missing From the List: If a game does not appear in UWPHook, ensure it is fully installed and updated through the Xbox App first, then click the refresh button again.
To ensure this guide solves your specific gaming issue, let me know: Are you setting this up specifically for a Steam Deck? Which controller do you plan to use?
Are you running into any error messages during installation?
I can provide targeted troubleshooting steps based on your setup.
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