How to Add Minecraft to Steam on Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide

How to Add Minecraft to Steam on Windows 11

Looking to pop Minecraft into your Steam library on Windows 11? It might sound a bit tricky at first, but once you get the hang of it, it’s a tidy little workaround. This setup lets you launch Minecraft straight from Steam, unlocking features like the Steam overlay, easy friends list access, and more. No need to tinker with game files or change how you play — just a quick tweak, and you’re set.

Getting Minecraft onto Steam

First off: make sure Minecraft is installed and running smoothly. No matter if you’re on Java or Bedrock edition, get it set up properly. Double-check by opening Settings > Apps > Installed apps. It’s also a good idea to run the game once to ensure everything’s working as it should.

Open Steam

Launch the Steam app — either click its shortcut on the desktop or find it in the Start menu. Once it’s up, click on the Games menu at the top, then select Add a Non-Steam Game to My Library. Alternatively, you can go via Steam > Games > Add a Non-Steam Game to My Library… if you prefer.

Locate Minecraft

A pop-up window will show a list of programs. If Minecraft isn’t listed, click Browse to find the game’s executable file manually. The locations depend on your setup, but common spots include:

• C:\Program Files (x86)\Minecraft Launcher\MinecraftLauncher.exe for Bedrock Edition
• C:\Program Files\Java\jdk-version\bin\javaw.exe for Java Edition, if you run it directly from Java.

If you’re having trouble finding it, check these paths:

• C:\Users\[YourName]\AppData\Roaming\.minecraft\launcher.exe

To locate it faster, press Win + R, then type explorer %appdata%\..\Local or explorer %appdata%\.minecraft. Hunt down the launcher.exe or MinecraftLauncher.exe.

Add It to Steam

If Minecraft appears in the list, great! If not, click Browse and navigate to where your launcher.exe is located. Make sure you pick the right one — Java or Bedrock — depending on your setup.

Finalise the Addition

Select Minecraft and click Add Selected Programs. You can then right-click your new entry in Steam, select Properties, and even change the name or icon if you fancy a customised look. When you’re ready, just click Play — just like you’d do with any Steam game. Too easy.

Enhance Your Minecraft-Steam Experience

• Always make sure Minecraft is fully up to date before linking it in Steam. Run the game standalone first — it helps prevent issues.
• Running into trouble? Sometimes Steam needs a nudge. Try running Steam as administrator or give your PC a quick restart.
• For a more console-like experience, check out Steam’s Big Picture Mode — great if you prefer using a controller.
• Adjust overlay settings via Steam > Settings > In-Game. You can change screenshot keys (F12 by default) and more.
• Using a controller? Make sure it’s set up correctly under Steam > Settings > Controller > General Controller Settings.
• Keep Steam regularly updated to avoid surprises — it’s worth checking for updates now and then.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can mods still work if Minecraft is added to Steam?

Absolutely. Adding Minecraft to Steam won’t interfere with mods. Just continue using your usual mod folders — drop mods into C:\Users\[YourName]\AppData\Roaming\.minecraft\mods or use mod loaders like Forge.

Do I need to buy Minecraft on Steam?

Nope. You just need to have it installed on your PC, regardless of where you bought it from. Steam is simply a handy way to launch and manage it.

Will my saved worlds be safe if I add Minecraft to Steam?

Most save files are stored in your user folder, like C:\Users\[YourName]\Minecraft. Adding the game to Steam won’t affect your saves, as they’re stored elsewhere.

Does Steam give me controller support for Minecraft?

Yes, it does! Just make sure to enable controller support in the game’s properties. Right-click the game in your library, select Properties > Controller, and set it up from there.

Is this method compatible with both Minecraft editions?

Yes — just be mindful of which executable you’re adding. The Java Edition may need some startup parameters, while Bedrock is more straightforward if you’re launching via its launcher.

Final Thoughts

Linking Minecraft with Steam isn’t complicated — it’s about making your gaming setup more seamless. Once set up, you’ll enjoy quick access and all the benefits that come with it. If you bump into any issues, a quick restart usually sorts things out. It’s a handy trick for everyone who likes to keep everything in one tidy place. Give it a try, and you might find it’s just what you needed.

This method has worked across multiple machines, so hopefully it saves you some time, too.