HoYoverse fans have been asking for it for years, and it looks like their wishes might finally come true. A recent data mine has uncovered code in the HoYoverse account system that strongly hints at Steam integration for games like Genshin Impact, Honkai Star Rail, and Zenless Zone Zero.
What the Leak Reveals
According to leaks shared on Reddit in mid-January 2026, new Steam-related strings were added to HoYoverse’s localized message files on January 6. These aren’t just random additions, they’re error messages that appear under specific conditions related to Steam account linking. The messages reference connecting HoYoverse accounts with Steam, unlinking Steam accounts, and managing game progress across platforms.
One particularly interesting message states that logging in with a Honkai Impact 3rd Steam account is not supported, which strongly suggests these changes are intended for other HoYoverse games. Currently, only Honkai Impact 3rd is available on Steam, but it runs on a separate server and client, isolated from other platforms.
Why This Matters for Players
Right now, HoYoverse operates its own ecosystem with dedicated launchers like HoYoPlay for its gacha games. Players have to download games directly from the official website or use platforms like the Epic Games Store. Steam support would be a massive convenience upgrade, letting players manage their entire library in one place with features like the Steam overlay, achievement tracking, and community features.
The leak also mentions error messages similar to what currently appears when logging in with an unlinked PlayStation Network account. This suggests HoYoverse is building a unified cross-platform experience where players can link their accounts across multiple storefronts while maintaining their progress. This would mirror how Zenless Zone Zero already supports cross-save between PC, mobile, and PS5 through HoYoverse ID.
The Current HoYoverse Landscape
HoYoverse has become a powerhouse in the gacha gaming space. Genshin Impact launched in September 2020 and quickly became a cultural phenomenon, blending open-world exploration with anime aesthetics and gacha mechanics. Honkai Star Rail followed in April 2023 as a turn-based RPG, while Zenless Zone Zero launched in July 2024 with its unique urban fantasy setting and combo-heavy combat.
All three games are currently available on PC through the official HoYoPlay launcher, mobile platforms, and consoles (with Genshin and Zenless on PlayStation). They’re also on the Epic Games Store, which uses a 12% revenue cut compared to Steam’s 30%. The question is whether HoYoverse will prioritize player convenience over the higher revenue split Steam demands.
Challenges and Considerations
Moving to Steam isn’t without complications. The data-mined strings mention that once you unlink a Steam account, you can’t access characters tied to that HoYoverse account through Steam anymore, and you can only unlink once every 30 days. This suggests HoYoverse is being cautious about account security and preventing abuse.
There’s also the technical side. Steam Deck users have already been manually installing HoYoverse games using compatibility layers like Proton Experimental, with mixed results. Some players report connection issues, anti-cheat concerns, and launcher problems. Official Steam support would eliminate these workarounds and provide a smoother experience for handheld PC gaming.
When Could This Happen
While the code was added in early January 2026, there’s no official announcement or timeline from HoYoverse. The company has been silent on Steam plans, and leaks don’t always translate to immediate releases. However, the fact that these strings are now in the live account system suggests development is progressing beyond the experimental stage.
It’s worth noting that HoYoverse has three more projects in development: Varsapura, Honkai: Nexus Anima, and Petit Planet. The company might be positioning itself for a broader Steam strategy that includes both existing and upcoming titles.
FAQs
Will my current progress transfer if HoYoverse games come to Steam?
Based on the leaked code, it appears HoYoverse is building a system that links your existing HoYoverse account to Steam, similar to how PSN linking currently works. Your progress should carry over seamlessly as long as you link the same account.
Do I have to rebuy the game on Steam?
No, all HoYoverse games are free-to-play. You won’t need to purchase anything, though in-game purchases and gacha mechanics will remain the same as other platforms.
Is Honkai Impact 3rd already on Steam?
Yes, Honkai Impact 3rd is currently the only HoYoverse game available on Steam, but it runs on a separate server limited to North America. The leaked code suggests other games will integrate differently, likely using the standard servers shared with PC and mobile players.
What about Steam Deck compatibility?
Official Steam releases would dramatically improve Steam Deck support. Currently, players have to manually install games through workarounds, which can cause technical issues. Native Steam integration would enable proper controller support, optimized settings, and verified compatibility.
Will Epic Games Store versions still be supported?
There’s no indication HoYoverse plans to remove games from Epic Games Store. The company will likely maintain presence on multiple platforms to maximize reach, similar to how many publishers operate on both Steam and Epic simultaneously.
Could this affect gacha rates or in-game purchases?
Unlikely. HoYoverse maintains consistent gacha rates and pricing across all platforms. Steam versions would connect to the same servers and use the same economy as PC launcher, mobile, and console versions.
When will HoYoverse officially announce Steam support?
HoYoverse hasn’t made any official announcements yet. The timeline remains unclear, though the presence of Steam integration code in the account system suggests active development is underway.
Conclusion
The evidence is mounting that HoYoverse is preparing to bring its flagship games to Steam. For players, this means greater convenience, better integration with Steam’s ecosystem, and improved support for devices like the Steam Deck. While we’re still waiting for official confirmation, the data-mined code provides the strongest indication yet that Genshin Impact, Honkai Star Rail, and Zenless Zone Zero could finally make their Steam debut in 2026. Keep an eye on official HoYoverse channels for announcements, and prepare to add your favorite gacha games to your Steam library soon.