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| Hu Tao, a popular character from Genshin Impact. |
For millions of players worldwide, the vibrant worlds of Genshin Impact, Zenless Zone Zero, and Honkai: Star Rail are destinations visited daily. Yet, accessing these Hoyoverse titles has always meant using miHoYo's own launcher or, on PC, the Epic Games Store. Now, compelling evidence suggests the developer is laying the groundwork to bring its entire suite of games to the world's largest PC platform: Steam.
The rumor mill began churning when keen-eyed dataminers noticed something unusual in the latest Genshin Impact update for PC. As noted by the known leaker Kazuleaks, the game's files now contain a steam_api64.dll—a standard application extension file used for Steam integration. This file doesn't appear by accident; it's a clear sign of internal testing for Steam's API.
Adding substantial fuel to the fire, a vigilant Redditor, u/hzy980512, discovered several Steam-related login strings hidden within the code of miHoYo's account management webpage. These strings, which include references to Steam login callbacks and user data, point to a broader account system integration beyond a single game. You can dive into the initial discussion and evidence in this thread on GamingLeaksAndRumours.
This move would be a logical and significant expansion for miHoYo. While their games are phenomenally successful on mobile and through direct PC downloads, Steam's massive, built-in audience represents untapped potential. For players, the benefits are clear: centralized libraries, native Steam features like the overlay and family sharing, and streamlined updates.
The implications for handheld PC gaming are particularly exciting. Devices like the Steam Deck, ASUS ROG Ally, and Lenovo Legion Go are already capable of running these titles through unofficial methods, but official support would be a game-changer. As explored in a detailed analysis by Steam Deck HQ, players currently use tools like Proton-GE and the Heroic Games Launcher to get Genshin Impact and Zenless Zone Zero running on SteamOS, with generally good performance at handheld-friendly resolutions.
However, the path to a coveted "Steam Deck Verified" tag isn't without hurdles. These games typically require a mouse click to launch before controller input is recognized, and their always-online nature can complicate mobile play. An official Steam port would allow miHoYo to optimize the launch process for controller-only use and potentially improve offline menu navigation, making the handheld experience seamless.
Community reaction is one of hopeful anticipation. The prospect of earning Steam achievements and having easier access on the Steam Deck has long been a popular request. As one fan speculated on social media, a Steam release could coincide with a major new region or anniversary update, serving as a monumental event to draw in a new wave of players.
While miHoYo has not made any official announcement, the digital breadcrumbs are hard to ignore. Bringing the Hoyoverse to Steam wouldn't just be a new distribution channel—it would be an acknowledgment of the passionate PC community that has embraced these games. For handheld PC gamers especially, it could finally make their devices one of the best and most convenient ways to explore Teyvat and beyond. All eyes are now on the developer's next move.