Valve’s Steam, the reigning champion of PC gaming marketplaces, has implemented a new policy to ensure greater clarity for its users. Now, when you purchase a game on Steam, a prominent banner will inform you that you are buying a license to access the software, not actually owning it. This change, though seemingly subtle, represents a crucial shift in how Steam communicates ownership rights.
While it might seem like a surprising revelation to some, the reality is that this has always been the standard for digital software, including games. Whether you buy a game on Steam, a physical disc, or any other digital platform, you are technically purchasing a license that grants you the right to use the software, not the software itself. The software remains the property of the developers.
It’s likely that Steam’s newly implemented disclaimer is a direct response to California’s recent AB 2426 law, which aims to combat false advertising in the digital realm. This law mandates that digital stores be upfront about the fact that users are buying licenses, not ownership of the software.
In essence, Steam’s new message simply reiterates what has always been stated within their subscriber agreement. The agreement clearly outlines that users acquire a license to use the software, not ownership of it. This practice is not exclusive to Steam; it’s the standard across the digital gaming landscape.
This shift in communication highlights a growing awareness of digital rights and the need for transparency in the digital marketplace. Steam’s move, while seemingly a small change, underscores the importance of informing users about their ownership rights in the ever-evolving digital age.
