I'm trying to figure out how a specific Windows shortcut works. I've included two pictures for reference. The URL associated with it is `sgup://run/STOVE_CHAOSZERO`, which opens the launcher for the game titled in the shortcut. Normally, most shortcuts point to an .exe file that's easily found in file explorer, and double-clicking the .exe achieves the same result, minus any launch arguments. However, this shortcut doesn't point to an executable, and I'm curious about what it actually does. What is 'sgup'? What does 'STOVE_CHAOSZERO' refer to? Did installing this game add a Windows command to my computer? I've tried typing 'sgup' into CMD or Powershell, but it doesn't return anything. Also, I couldn't find any files named 'sgup' or 'STOVE_CHAOSZERO' in the game folder. How can I find out more about this?
2 Answers
This shortcut is actually a protocol handler for the Microsoft Store. Just like 'http://' is tied to web browsers, 'sgup://' is linked to the store. When you click it, it triggers the store to open and install that game.
You can check this out by using the Run dialog. Just type 'notepad' and hit enter. It should open Notepad for you!
It works! Is there a list of programs that can be launched this way or some guide on what the commands mean?
Got it! So, is there any advantage in using this kind of shortcut? It seems like it might work even if I change the install location, but does it only apply to games from the Microsoft Store? I didn’t even get this from there, by the way.