itch.io adds Steam shortcuts for installed games
A new launch path brings itch games into Steam libraries, with different behaviour depending on the chosen mode.
itch.io's app version 26.20.0 adds a way to create Steam shortcuts for games installed through itch. The September 2 announcement describes the feature as experimental.
Players can launch through itch, retaining its configured launch settings and play-time tracking, or point Steam directly at a game's executable. The direct option leaves the itch app out of the launch and does not provide its sandboxing or API integration.
The update also introduces a headless launch mode that other launchers and shortcut systems can use. It preserves the itch launch configuration without opening the full app for supported games. HTML5 games still cause the app to open because they need its browser environment.
For developers distributing on multiple storefronts, the distinction is between a library shortcut and a new store release. This feature helps players launch an existing installation; it does not publish that game on Steam or establish Steam Deck compatibility.
Testing both launch modes can reveal assumptions about launch arguments, prerequisites and the surrounding client.
- itch.io
- steam
- distribution