How to Access Early Access on Steam: A Comprehensive Guide
So, you’re eager to dive into the latest games before anyone else? Early Access on Steam offers a tantalizing glimpse into the future of gaming, allowing you to play titles in development, provide valuable feedback, and become part of the game’s journey. But how exactly do you get in on the action? The process is relatively straightforward, and this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
The primary ways to access early access games on Steam are through two methods: purchasing games explicitly marked as Early Access or redeeming an Early Access key. Additionally, you can sometimes gain access through pre-ordering certain versions of games that include it.
Purchasing an Early Access Game
This is the most common method. Games in Early Access are clearly labeled as such on their Steam store page. Here’s how it works:
- Browse the Steam Store: Navigate to the Steam store using either the desktop client or your web browser.
- Search or Explore: Use the search bar to find specific games or browse the store using tags, categories, and the discovery queue.
- Identify Early Access Games: Look for the “Early Access” tag prominently displayed on the game’s page. This tag is usually located near the title, price, and developer information.
- Review the Game Description: Before purchasing, carefully read the game description. This will detail the current state of the game, features included in Early Access, and what the developers plan to implement in the future.
- Purchase the Game: If you’re comfortable with the game’s development stage, add it to your cart and proceed to checkout as you would with any other Steam title.
- Download and Play: Once purchased, the game will be added to your Steam library. You can then download it and begin playing immediately, just like a fully released title.
Redeeming an Early Access Key
Developers sometimes provide Early Access keys through various channels, such as game bundles, promotional giveaways, or through their own websites. Here’s how to redeem one:
- Obtain the Key: Get the Early Access key from the source provided. This key is typically a unique alphanumeric code.
- Open Steam: Launch the Steam desktop client and log in to your account.
- Navigate to “Activate a Product”: At the top of the Steam client, click on the “Games” menu, and then select “Activate a Product on Steam…”
- Enter Your Key: A product activation window will appear, prompting you to enter the product code. Type or copy and paste the Early Access key into the designated field.
- Accept Terms and Complete the Activation: After entering the key, follow the on-screen prompts to complete the activation process. The game will then be added to your Steam library.
- Download and Play: As with purchased games, download the game from your library and begin playing.
Pre-Ordering with Early Access
Some games may offer special pre-order editions that grant early access. If that’s the case it will be clearly marked on the game’s store page.
- Check the Pre-order Details: Look for language on the pre-order store page about Early Access, often paired with a specific date.
- Pre-order the Correct Edition: Ensure you are pre-ordering the edition that actually contains the Early Access benefit. Not all pre-orders come with Early Access.
- Wait for Early Access Activation: Once the date for Early Access begins, the game will appear in your library for download.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Steam Early Access
Here are some common questions to help you understand Early Access better:
What Exactly is Early Access?
Early Access, also known as alpha access, or game preview, is a funding model where consumers can purchase and play a game while it is still in development. These games are often in pre-alpha, alpha, or beta stages and may have bugs, missing features, and incomplete content.
Do I get the Full Game When Purchasing Early Access?
Yes, if you purchase a game during Early Access, you will automatically receive the full version of the game when it is officially released. You do not need to purchase the game again.
Is Early Access Free?
No, most Early Access games are not free. Typically there are three price points: Free, $9.99, and $19.99. Some developers may offer free trials or demos. However, some indie games in Early Access can be free.
How Much Do Early Access Games Cost?
The cost of Early Access games varies. Some may be priced lower than the final release price to incentivize early adoption. Common price points include free, $9.99, and $19.99.
How Do I Check If A Game is Available for Early Access?
Look for the “Early Access” tag on the game’s Steam store page. Additionally, read the game’s description; developers usually provide details about the development stage and Early Access program there.
How Long Do Games Stay in Early Access?
There is no set time limit for Early Access. It can vary from a few months to several years. Some games can remain in Early Access for over 2 years.
Can I Get a Refund on an Early Access Game?
Yes, Steam’s refund policy applies to Early Access games. You can request a refund within 14 days of purchase and if you have played it for less than 2 hours.
Is Early Access Risky?
Yes, playing games in Early Access comes with risks. You may encounter bugs, performance issues, incomplete features, and potential changes to the game as it develops. The game you are playing is not a finished product.
How Can I Provide Feedback to Developers?
Many developers actively seek player feedback during Early Access. You can typically share your thoughts through in-game feedback systems, forums, or their Discord servers.
Can I Hide That I’m Playing an Early Access Game?
Yes, Steam’s privacy settings allow you to hide your game activity from other users. You can set your game details to “Private” in your Steam profile settings. You can even set your profile to private, hiding everything but your username.
Can I Access Steam Games Early By Changing My Region?
While some players have tried using a VPN to unlock games early by changing their Steam region, this is generally not recommended. Steam may have protections in place that prevent this. This may also violate the Steam Subscriber Agreement.
Why does Steam have a $5 Minimum?
Steam has a $5 minimum purchase to access certain community features. This policy is in place to deter malicious users from creating spam, scam, and phishing accounts.
Is Pre-Loading The Same as Early Access?
Pre-loading allows you to download game files before the official release date, so that you may start playing on day one. However, pre-loading is different from Early Access. Pre-loading does not allow you to play before a scheduled release time.
How Do I Find Hidden Games On My Steam Library?
To find hidden games, you have to go to your Steam account in your web browser. Select your profile, then “View Games”. There you’ll see options to display either “Installed” or “Hidden” games.
What are the Risks of Early Access?
While there are many good things about Early Access, the risk of buying an unpolished game, which may not be what you expected, is always there. Not all games reach their full potential, and you may find yourself playing a game that changes drastically, and not in a way you enjoy.
By understanding these points, you’ll be well-equipped to explore the world of Early Access on Steam and make informed decisions about which games to support. Enjoy your early adventures!