Is it better to have games on Steam or Epic Games?
The answer to this question largely depends on personal preference, but Steam is generally considered the better option due to its extensive library of games, user-friendly interface, and strong community features, making it a more comprehensive gaming platform. With over 50,000 titles available, Steam offers a significantly larger selection of games compared to Epic Games, which has around 2,000 titles, giving gamers a wider range of options to choose from.
Game Library and Availability
One of the primary reasons Steam stands out is its vast game library, which includes a wide variety of genres and titles, both old and new. This extensive library is a significant draw for gamers, as it provides them with numerous options to explore and discover new games.
User Interface and Performance
Both Steam and Epic Games have their strengths and weaknesses when it comes to their user interfaces. While Steam’s interface is often described as busier, its community features and user reviews make it easier for gamers to find and connect with others who share similar interests. In terms of performance, both platforms are relatively easy to install and run, but some users may notice a slight difference in loading times and responsiveness.
Community and Social Features
Steam’s strong community features, including friend lists, forums, and user reviews, make it a more social platform compared to Epic Games. These features enable gamers to connect with others, share tips, and discuss their favorite games, creating a more engaging and immersive experience.
Pricing and Revenue Models
Epic Games has been known to offer more competitive revenue splits for developers, with a 12% commission on game sales compared to Steam’s 30% cut. However, Steam’s larger user base and extensive marketing efforts can often make up for the difference in revenue splits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is the main difference between Steam and Epic Games?
The main difference between Steam and Epic Games is the size of their game libraries, with Steam offering over 50,000 titles and Epic Games offering around 2,000 titles.
Q2: Which platform has better community features?
Steam has more comprehensive community features, including friend lists, forums, and user reviews, making it a more social platform.
Q3: Do I own my games on Steam forever?
Yes, once you add a game to your Steam library, you own it forever, even if you do not download it, as Steam games are digital copies stored on Steam’s servers.
Q4: Can I play games on both Steam and Epic Games?
Yes, you can play games on both Steam and Epic Games, and you can even link your accounts to synchronize your friends list and other data.
Q5: Which platform is more expensive?
Epic Games is not necessarily more expensive, but it offers more competitive revenue splits for developers, which can lead to lower prices for gamers.
Q6: How often does Epic Games give away free games?
Epic Games gives away free games every week, which can be claimed and kept forever by users.
Q7: Can I get a refund on Steam?
Yes, Steam has a refund policy that allows users to request a refund for games that do not meet their expectations.
Q8: How many users does Steam have?
Steam has over 132 million monthly active users, making it one of the largest gaming platforms in the world.
Q9: Is Epic Games trying to compete with Steam?
Yes, Epic Games is trying to compete with Steam by offering more competitive revenue splits and exclusive games.
Q10: Why do developers prefer Epic Games?
Developers prefer Epic Games because of its more competitive revenue splits, which can lead to higher earnings for them.
Q11: Can I play games on Steam offline?
Yes, you can play games on Steam offline, but you will need to have a stable internet connection to authenticate your games initially.
Q12: How do I link my Steam and Epic Games accounts?
You can link your Steam and Epic Games accounts by following the account linking process on the Epic Games website.
Q13: What happens to my games if Steam shuts down?
If Steam were to shut down, your games would likely be transferred to a new platform or Valve’s successor company, ensuring that you can continue to play your games.
Q14: Is Steam losing popularity?
No, Steam is not losing popularity, but it did experience a decline in growth after the COVID-19 pandemic. However, it is currently experiencing steady growth again.
Q15: Is there a monthly fee for Steam?
No, Steam is free to use, and you only pay for the games you purchase, making it a cost-effective option for gamers.