Ubisoft has responded to user concerns over the years by improving the Ubisoft Connect experience, including:

: The service enables cross-play and cross-progression , allowing you to keep your stats and friends list as you move between different gaming devices.

Ubisoft Connect integrates several free services that extend beyond basic game launching: Ubisoft Connect | Ubisoft (EU / UK)

If you haven't bought the game yet, the only 100% legal way to bypass Ubisoft Connect entirely is to purchase titles through GOG.com.

This article is for educational and informational purposes only. Bypassing DRM (Digital Rights Management) to play paid games for free is software piracy, which is illegal in most jurisdictions and violates Ubisoft’s Terms of Service. The methods described below regarding "offline bypasses" exist primarily for legitimate owners facing internet issues. Promoting cracks or torrents damages the gaming industry. Proceed at your own risk.

to prevent permission-based blocks during the hand-off between launchers like Steam and Ubisoft Connect. Official Policies and Constraints Temporary locks on Ubisoft accounts | Ubisoft Help