PlayCounter

Overview

PlayCounter is a Windows desktop app that automatically tracks playtime across recognized PC games from multiple launchers. Its local session history and per-game notes make it a strong fit for players who want a private record of what they play, rather than a social gaming profile.

It tracks sessions as games run, then builds a library of covers, hours and session history. The trade-off is a Windows-only public installer and online-dependent matching features.

Key features

PlayCounter’s automatic tracking spans Steam, Epic Games, Battle.net, Xbox app, GOG, EA app, Ubisoft Connect, Riot Client and itch.io, as well as disc installs and standalone executables. A live timer shows the current session; quitting a recognized game saves it to the record. That launcher breadth is useful for players whose libraries are scattered, though tracking depends on the game being recognized.

The library combines covers with total hours and session counts. History adds dates, session lengths, streaks and playtime summaries, while milestones give long-term play a sense of progress. Notes and separate playthroughs are especially useful for players who revisit games or keep track of different runs.

Imports can add service-reported playtime from Steam, Xbox and Epic. Battle.net import supplies a game list but not hours, so it cannot fill the same historical gap. Dedicated detection is also available for DOSBox, Dolphin, PCSX2 and mGBA; some matches need review, making this a useful option for emulator users but not a fully hands-off record in every case.

Sessions, notes and history stay on the PC, and the app needs no account. The desktop client is MIT-licensed, but the production API, database migrations and deployment code are privately maintained. The app sends a pseudonymous installation identifier at startup and about hourly, plus process identifiers for online game matching. Offline use remains possible, but automatic matching, cover images and update checks need a server connection.

Pricing

PlayCounter is free: free, with no subscription and no PlayCounter account. There is no free trial because the app has a free plan. With no paid tier, the main compromise is not a feature quota but the Windows-only installer and the loss of server-dependent features offline.

Platforms

The public desktop app supports Windows. The site does not support macOS, Linux or console live tracking through its public installer, and there is no mobile app. Steam, Xbox, PC Game Pass, Epic, GOG, EA, Ubisoft, Battle.net and itch.io are among the supported platforms and sources. Multiple data exports are supported.

Who it's for

PlayCounter suits Windows players who want one automatic playtime record across launchers, a detailed session history, and notes or separate records for different playthroughs. It is less suitable for anyone who needs cross-device access, console live tracking, or a public social profile. Players who prefer to keep records offline can still use the app, but should expect matching and artwork features to be unavailable without a server connection.

Pros and cons

• Broad automatic tracking: covers many launchers, disc installs and standalone games in one library.
• Useful session detail: dates, lengths, streaks, summaries, milestones and playthrough notes make the record more than a single lifetime-hours count.
• Local-first and account-free: sessions and notes stay on the PC, and the desktop app requires no account.
• Emulator support: dedicated detection includes DOSBox, Dolphin, PCSX2 and mGBA, though some matches need review.
• Online connection still matters: offline mode loses automatic matching, covers and update checks, and the app sends identifiers for installation and game matching.
• Windows only: the public installer leaves out Mac, Linux and console live-tracking users.

Alternatives

PlayTracker is the better fit for readers who want Android, iOS or web access alongside Windows, and it has a free gamer plan; its Indie plan is €12 a month.

Pyroblast is a free web alternative for connecting Steam, PlayStation and Xbox accounts rather than relying on a Windows desktop tracker.

Steins;Tracker is another free Windows option for game tracking, customization and statistics, with a Pro tier for exclusive icons, themes and advanced features at custom pricing.

GamePal is an iOS alternative, with a free download and Platinum features at $2.99 a month.

Steam Wrapped is another free Windows option.

GamingGaiden is another free Windows option.

Actually Played is a free option for Linux, macOS and Windows users; its listed offering is a client-side Minecraft mod with no dependencies.

Thusfar is another free Windows alternative.

Browse the Game Playtime Trackers category for more options.

Verdict

Choose PlayCounter if you use Windows and want an account-free, detailed playtime record that follows games across launchers and keeps notes alongside sessions. Its combination of automatic tracking and local history is the main draw. Look elsewhere if you need macOS, Linux or console live tracking, or if you want matching and artwork to work offline.