Digital Purchases Only Entail Licenses for Games, Not Full Ownership, Steam Now Warns Users

Digital Purchases Only Entail Licenses for Games, Not Full Ownership, Steam Now Warns Users

As a seasoned gamer with decades of memories etched into discs and cartridges, it’s disheartening to see the shift towards digital ownership. I remember fondly the days when I could physically own a game, hold it in my hands, trade it with friends, or even resell it if I needed some extra cash. The concept of licensing a game feels like a step backwards, not forwards.


It’s undeniable that digital media offers numerous benefits, but it’s also evident over time that it carries considerable disadvantages that can’t be overlooked. One of the most notable drawbacks is the blurring of ownership rights. For instance, when you buy a game at full price digitally, you don’t truly own it as publishers retain ultimate control and the power to cancel your license for the purchase. Recently, this issue has become more transparent to users on major platforms.

VGC has pointed out that when using Valve’s digital PC platform, Steam, during the checkout process, users are now made aware that the game they intend to buy doesn’t provide ownership rights, but rather gives them permission to play the specific title.

“A purchase of a digital product grants a license for the product on Steam,” the warning reads.

Due to a recent update in California’s regulations, digital storefronts now need to inform users that the purchases they make are for digital licenses that may expire, not for permanent possession. At this time, this rule applies only in California, but Valve appears to have implemented this change on its platform ahead of schedule.

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2024-10-14 10:41