Steam
Introdução
Steam is the PC game store and launcher run by Valve, the developer behind Half-Life, Portal and Counter-Strike. It left beta in September 2003, initially as a way to deliver updates for Valve's own games, and began selling games from other developers in 2005. Today it is the largest digital storefront for PC games, covering everything from small independent releases to major publisher titles.
Purchases are tied to a Steam account and played through the Steam client on Windows, macOS and Linux, as well as on Valve's Steam Deck handheld, released in 2022. The client handles downloads, automatic updates, cloud saves, achievements, friends lists and community features such as reviews, guides and the Workshop for mods. Steam Families lets up to six accounts share games from one library.
Vantagens
- Large game catalogue
- Refunds within 14 days, under two hours
- Linux and Steam Deck support
- Reviews, mods and community features built in
Desvantagens
- Some games add third-party launchers or DRM
- Some purchases are restricted by region
- Steam client required to play
Comprar na Steam
Games bought on Steam are added to your account straight away and can be installed on any computer where you sign in. Prices are shown in local currency and many games use regional pricing, so some purchases are restricted by region. Valve's refund policy covers nearly any game bought within the last 14 days with less than two hours of playtime; DLC and pre-purchases have their own conditions.
Steam does not enforce a single DRM approach. Developers can rely on Steam's own copy protection, add third-party DRM or launchers, or ship without DRM, so it is worth checking the store page for any additional account or launcher requirements before buying.
