Our verdict: Steam is the main PC game store, and you need its client to play most games you buy there. The client itself is free and adds cloud saves, mods, voice chat and streaming. It requires an account, runs in the background and most purchased games are tied to it.
About Steam
Steam is run by Valve. The client is free; you pay only for the games and content you buy. Many free-to-play games are available on it as well, and you can add non-Steam games to your library to launch them from one place.
Besides the store, the client handles downloads and updates, keeps saves in Steam Cloud for supported games, hosts community mods in the Workshop and lets you stream games to another device with Remote Play. Big Picture mode turns it into a controller-friendly interface for a TV.
What it does well
- Game library and updates. Downloads, installs and patches your games automatically.
- Steam Cloud. Syncs save games between PCs for games that support it.
- Workshop. Installs community mods and maps with one click for supported games.
- Remote Play. Streams games to a phone, TV or another PC, and Remote Play Together for local co-op online.
- Big Picture mode. Full-screen interface with full controller support.
Who it is for
Good fit
Most PC gamers; it is required to play games bought on Steam.
Look elsewhere
People who want DRM-free games or prefer not to have a launcher running in the background.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Largest PC game catalog
- Cloud saves and Workshop mods
- Remote Play streaming
- Controller support in Big Picture mode
Cons
- Requires a Steam account and internet for first activation
- Most purchased games depend on Steam's DRM
- Runs in the background and uses memory while idle
How to install Steam
Run SteamSetup.exe; it downloads the rest of the client. Sign in or create a free Steam account and enable Steam Guard for your account. If you do not want Steam to start with Windows, turn it off under Settings → Interface. You can pick a separate game library folder on a large drive under Settings → Storage.
Questions about Steam
Is Steam free?
Yes. The client and account are free. You pay only for games and content you buy.
Can I play Steam games offline?
Yes, after you sign in once online and enable Offline Mode. Some games still require an internet connection.
Can I add non-Steam games to Steam?
Yes. Use Games → Add a Non-Steam Game to My Library to launch them from Steam.
