Looking for Steam alternatives that suit your gaming needs? Better read this article!
Steam has long held the throne as the go-to platform for PC gaming, but did you know that there are several other services where you can purchase and play games?
These alternatives to Steam offer their own unique catalogs, features, and, occasionally, exclusive titles that you won’t find anywhere else.
Whether you’re into big blockbuster games or indie titles, there’s a good chance that another platform caters to your gaming preferences.
Exploring other platforms could lead you to better deals, a wider variety of games, or a user experience that suits your needs more than Steam does.
Platforms like GOG offer DRM-free games, while the Epic Games Store provides users with regular free game offers, which is particularly appealing for budget-conscious gamers.
Origin and Uplay, on the other hand, serve up games from their respective publishers, EA and Ubisoft, which means that they sometimes have titles not immediately available on Steam or they offer special editions with exclusive content.
Navigating these alternatives also means that you’re likely to encounter different community features or reward systems.
For example, some platforms may emphasize social networking and achievements, while others might offer better customer support or a more curated selection of games.
By diversifying where you shop for games, you not only support competition in the industry but also discover new gaming experiences that might otherwise have been overlooked.
Top Steam Alternatives
While Steam reigns as a popular platform for digital game distribution, there are several notable alternatives you might want to consider for your gaming needs.
GOG (Good Old Games)
GOG.com prides itself on a DRM-free policy, ensuring that you fully own the games you purchase.
Moreover, GOG offers a vast collection of classic games that have been updated to run on modern systems.
Epic Games Store
The Epic Games Store is known for its weekly free game offerings and exclusive releases.
With a direct connection to the developers of Fortnite, the platform frequently provides discounts and incentives to attract gamers.
Origin by EA
Origin is Electronic Arts’ own platform where you can find all their major titles.
Origin provides features like cloud saves, a robust game library, and often includes free trials of games, allowing you to try before you buy.
Ubisoft Connect
Formerly Uplay, Ubisoft Connect integrates social features and rewards you with Ubisoft Club points as you play, which can be redeemed for game-related goodies.
The platform also offers a subscription service called Ubisoft+ with access to a library of games including new releases.
Factors to Consider When Choosing an Alternative
When looking for a Steam alternative, it’s important to evaluate certain aspects to make sure you get the best gaming experience.
Here are key factors to weigh in on.
Game Selection
Your chosen platform should offer a wide array of games, including both high-profile releases and indie titles.
Check whether it has the games you’re interested in, and keep an eye out for exclusive titles that may sway your decision.
Pricing and Discounts
The cost of games and availability of discounts can vary significantly between platforms.
Look for services that offer competitive prices, regular sales, and possibly a subscription model if that suits your gaming habits better.
User Interface
A user-friendly interface is crucial for a pleasant gaming experience.
Your alternative should have an intuitive layout, making it easy to browse, purchase, and play games without a hassle.
Community Features
A strong community can greatly enhance your gaming experience.
Features like forums, user reviews, and multiplayer options add value, so consider these when choosing where to buy and play your games.
How to Migrate from Steam
When considering leaving Steam for another gaming platform, you’ll want to focus on transferring your game libraries and managing your current friends lists and community connections.
Transferring Game Libraries
To transfer your game library, begin by checking the new platform’s support for Steam games; many allow you to activate your Steam-bought games.
For games not supported, you might have to repurchase or look for cross-platform licenses.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to start transferring your game library:
- Verify Game Support: Check if your new platform accepts Steam keys or has a game transfer option.
- Activation: Use the games’ keys to activate them on the target platform, if supported.
- Reinstallation: Install the games through the new platform’s library interface.
- Backup Saves: Some games use cloud saves that are compatible across platforms, but for those that don’t, back up your save files.
- Local Files: Transfer any local game files or mods to the new platform’s specified game folder.
Note: Some DRM-free games can be copied over directly without repurchasing.
Managing Friends Lists and Community
Your community ties can be maintained through the following steps:
- Export Friends List: See if your new platform offers a way to import friends; if they do, export your Steam friends list.
- Send Invites: Manually send friend requests to your Steam friends on the new platform.
- Join Communities: Look for the same or similar community groups on the new platform and join them to stay connected.
- Communicate: Let your friends know about the switch through Steam’s chat or a group announcement to coordinate a platform migration.
Future of Digital Game Distribution
As you navigate the evolving landscape of digital game distribution, you’ll encounter emerging platforms and significant innovations in game streaming that are shaping the industry’s future.
Emerging Platforms
Digital distribution platforms for PC games continue to grow, presenting you with more choices beyond established players like Steam.
New platforms like Epic Games Store and community-driven services such as itch.io offer unique features, including developer-friendly revenue shares and open-source tools.
These platforms not only diversify your purchasing options but also promote competition, leading to better deals and services for you as a gamer.
Innovations in Game Streaming
Game streaming technology is another area where you will see advancements.
Platforms like Google Stadia and NVIDIA GeForce NOW demonstrate a future where games are streamed directly to your device, eliminating the need for high-end hardware on your part.
Moreover, with the gradual rollout of 5G, streaming services are anticipated to become even more responsive, providing you with high-quality gaming experiences on the go, with minimal latency.
Key Takeaways
- Variety of Choices: You have several options besides Steam for purchasing and playing video games.
Gamersgate is notably one of the oldest and offers a range of high-profile games.
- Pricing and Currencies: Platforms like Fanatical provide real-time price conversion.
- This ensures that you know exactly what you’re paying in your local currency.
- Usage and Perks: Consider your specific needs such as game selection, community features, and exclusive deals.
The Epic Games Store, for example, is renowned for its exclusive titles and free game offers.
- Marketplace versus Store: A community-run marketplace such as G2A not only sells games but also allows for the sale of game keys.
- This distinguishes it from conventional digital stores.
- Device Compatibility: The Steam Deck comes in various storage options (64 GB, 256 GB, and 512 GB).
If you’re looking for hardware, weigh these options against your budget and storage needs.