Do Steam keys still work?
Steam keys are still a valid and functional way to purchase and play games on the Steam platform, with no expiry date unless otherwise specified. Whether you’re looking to buy a new game or redeem a key from a third-party seller, Steam keys remain a convenient and cost-effective option for gamers.
Understanding Steam Keys
To understand the concept of Steam keys, it’s essential to know that they are unique codes used to activate games on the Steam platform. Steam keys can be purchased from various sources, including the Steam store, third-party sellers, and gray market websites like CDKeys and G2A.
FAQs About Steam Keys
1. Do Steam Keys Expire?
No, Steam keys do not expire, unless otherwise specified by the seller or game developer. You can redeem your key at any time, even if the game is removed from the Steam store.
2. Is it Illegal to Buy Cheap Steam Keys?
No, buying cheap Steam keys is not illegal, but it’s crucial to ensure you’re purchasing from a reputable source to avoid stolen or faulty keys.
3. Does Steam Still Use CD Keys?
Yes, Steam still uses CD keys, which can be found in the Steam library when you right-click the game and select ‘Manage‘ -> ‘CD keys‘. These keys are used to register your product outside of Steam, with a third-party client or service.
4. Is There a Risk to Buying Steam Keys?
Yes, the primary risk is that the key may have already been used or is invalid. However, purchasing from a legitimate source minimizes this risk.
5. Can You Get Banned on Steam for Buying CD Keys?
No, as long as you obtain your key from a legitimate source, you won’t get banned from Steam.
6. Is it Illegal to Buy Steam Keys Online?
No, buying Steam keys online is not illegal, but be cautious of unauthorized sellers who may offer stolen or region-locked keys.
7. Are G2A Steam Keys Legit?
Yes, G2A claims that the keys sold on their marketplace are 100% legit, originating from official sources such as developers and publishers.
8. Are Steam Keys Legal?
Yes, Steam keys are legal, but buying and selling them may be against the terms of service of some game developers or publishers.
9. Why Does Steam Allow CD Keys?
Steam allows CD keys as proof of purchase and ownership for your Steam account, which may be required by Steam Support in certain situations.
10. Can You Get Banned on Steam for Using G2A Keys?
Unlikely, but Valve can ban you for any reason, including using keys from unauthorized sources. However, this is not a common practice.
11. Is G2A Better Than CDKeys?
CDKeys is considered a gray market website, but it’s often preferred over G2A due to concerns about stolen goods being sold on the latter platform.
12. Are Game Keys Ethical?
Buying game keys can be devastating for independent game developers who rely on key sales and giveaways to generate buzz about their titles.
13. Can I Refund a Game on Steam if I Used a Key?
No, Steam’s Refund Policy only applies to games bought directly from the Steam store, not to keys purchased from third-party sellers like G2A.
14. What Happens if You Redeem a Stolen Steam Key?
If a key is stolen, it will be revoked automatically by Steam Support, and you’ll receive a notification on your Steam profile.
15. Where Can I Get Steam Keys for Free?
You can find free Steam keys on websites like DLH.net, FreeSteamKeys.me, and Grab the Games, which offer giveaways and free keys for various games.