Minecraft found in C:\XboxGames, want it in Program Files

Lily Parkinson · Feb 2, 2025

I want to add mincecraft into steam so I can use my xbox controller on PC (steam has controller input formatting) however it's currently located in my C:\XboxGames and when I attempt to add it I don't have permission to do so. Assuming its location is causing this, as usually you would load games from C:\Program Files (x86), is there any work around for this? I've basically only tried uninstalling then reinstalling as I have no idea what to do, or if its location is even the problem.

:)

Lily Parkinson

Why is it the Xbox version? I paid for minecraft years and years ago, downloaded/installed from the the web on this PC and to my knowledge never intended to use the Xbox app for minecraft.

Faline C

Hello Lily,

Thanks for posting your question! I'd like to help you find a solution.

The location is likely the issue since games installed through the Xbox app have restricted permissions. Moving it to Program Files (x86) won’t be straightforward, as Windows typically locks Xbox-installed games to their original directory.

A workaround is to add Minecraft’s executable file as a non-Steam game in Steam without moving it. Try navigating to C:\XboxGames\Minecraft and look for the .exe file. If you find it, open Steam, go to Library > Add a Game > Add a Non-Steam Game, then browse for Minecraft’s .exe and add it.

If Steam doesn’t recognize the controller properly, another option is to use something like reWASD or DS4Windows to map your controller inputs.

Let me know how it goes, and I'll be here to support you.

Faline C

Thanks for your reply. I see that some people have been able to get this to work before. Here is a workaround that adds the whole folder to the Steam library:

https://www.reddit.com/r/Steam/comments/uda7ef/...

Note: This is a non-Microsoft website. The page appears to be providing accurate, safe information. Watch out for ads on the site that may advertise products frequently classified as a PUP (Potentially Unwanted Products). Thoroughly research any product advertised on the site before you decide to download and install it.

Let me know if that helps!

Lily Parkinson

Hi Faline,

Thank you so much for your response, the minecraft .exe file (located in C:\XboxGames\Minecraft Launcher\Content) is the one that has permission restriction as you can see in the attached photo.

I will certainly look into reWASD and DS4Windows for backup plans, but if possible I really would like to get the game added to steam as i'm already familiar with its controller input.

Thanks,

Lily

SwordofWhedon

You cannot mod the Xbox version, it has strong DRM which prevents it.

It doesn't matter what Directory it's in

Minecraft found in C:\XboxGames, want it in Program Files