Tech
Steam Now Warns Users: You’re Buying a License, Not a Game
Steam has rolled out a new disclaimer informing customers that when they purchase games on the platform, they are only obtaining a license to use the product—not outright ownership.
This change is part of an effort to align with new California legislation (AB 2426), which takes effect in 2025, requiring digital marketplaces to clearly communicate that digital purchases are essentially licenses that can be revoked under certain conditions.
The warning, now displayed prominently at checkout, states: “A purchase of a digital product grants a license for the product on Steam.” This message is intended to clarify that users do not own the games indefinitely and access may depend on factors such as platform policies or the continuation of support for online services. Similar disclaimers are also visible to international customers outside the U.S., indicating a proactive approach by Valve to apply this transparency globally.
The introduction of this message comes amidst growing consumer frustration over games being rendered inaccessible when companies like Ubisoft have discontinued online services, as seen with titles such as The Crew. Valve’s new policy aims to reduce legal risks and inform consumers of the transient nature of digital game ownership, particularly as digital rights management (DRM) and cloud services become more prevalent in gaming.
The move has prompted comparisons with platforms like GOG (Good Old Games), which offers DRM-free content that can be downloaded and stored locally, granting users greater control over their purchases. While Steam’s convenience and broad selection remain strong selling points, this transparency shift may spark further discussions about the nature of digital ownership and consumer rights in the evolving gaming industry.
Sources: TechSpot, PC Gamer, Windows Centra