Steam Alternatives: Top 3 Game Download Platforms

Alternatives to Steam for PC Gaming

Steam represents a significant advantage for those who play games on their personal computers. Valve's digital distribution platform is known for its substantial discounts, reliable customer service, intuitive design, and a vast library of available titles.

Despite its strengths, Steam doesn't encompass every game or fulfill every gamer's needs. This creates opportunities for competing services to establish themselves, and some have even found success.

Reasons to Explore Alternatives

Some players may prefer to avoid the constraints of a platform like Steam. Concerns about tying game ownership to a specific account are valid, leading individuals to seek alternative options.

Consequently, several services offer compelling alternatives for PC gamers looking to diversify their digital game libraries.

Exploring Competitors

The following platforms provide viable options for those wishing to reduce their reliance on Steam:

These services can offer a different purchasing experience.
They may feature exclusive titles not available on Steam.
Some prioritize different distribution models or community features.

Ultimately, the best platform depends on individual preferences and gaming habits. Exploring these alternatives can broaden access to a wider range of games and potentially offer a more tailored experience.

By considering these options, gamers can move beyond the dominance of Steam and discover new ways to enjoy their favorite hobby.

Direct2Drive

Direct2Drive, initially a property of IGN Entertainment, is currently managed by Gamefly. Its operating philosophy is encapsulated in the phrase "Download Today. Own Forever". Similar to other platforms serving as alternatives to Steam, Direct2Drive does not emphasize community features or a dedicated client application.

Instead, the service prioritizes a streamlined experience for gamers, minimizing interference in their gameplay. Direct2Drive primarily concentrates on distributing prominent game titles from established publishers.

While independent games are also available, the platform’s marketing efforts largely highlight well-recognized titles. Although not frequently associated with substantial discounts, Direct2Drive does implement a restricted price-matching policy.

Downloading and Accessing Games

The process of acquiring games from the service is straightforward. A custom downloader is supplied, generally representing the preferred method for obtaining titles.

However, downloads can also be initiated without utilizing this proprietary tool. Crucially, once a game is installed on a user’s computer, continued access does not require ongoing login to the Direct2Drive platform.

Users retain the ability to retrieve their software keys and re-download game files directly from the website as needed.

GamersGate

Initially, GamersGate presents a user experience remarkably similar to that of Direct2Drive. The platform’s interface appears somewhat cluttered.

Upon completing a purchase, users receive a software key and utilize a small installer for downloading games. A dedicated client application isn't required for game management or execution.

Key Distinctions

The primary divergence between GamersGate and Direct2Drive lies in their respective focuses. GamersGate actively champions indie games.

While mainstream titles from prominent publishers are also available, the platform frequently highlights more specialized and independent game offerings on its homepage.

Overall Assessment

A more streamlined website organization would be beneficial, but this is a minor drawback.

GamersGate is poised to become the preferred digital distribution platform for enthusiasts of indie gaming.

The service provides a convenient method for acquiring and playing games without the need for a bulky client.

Amazon Game Downloads

Amazon’s extensive marketplace extends to digital game sales, offering a surprisingly comprehensive selection to consumers.

A Hidden Gem

The availability of games through Amazon is often overlooked, even forgotten, due to the sheer size and scope of the Amazon website.

Despite being less prominently advertised, Amazon’s game download service provides a substantial catalog of titles.

Selection and Pricing

Generally, games from prominent publishers are readily available on Amazon.

In many instances, Amazon can offer more competitive pricing compared to Steam, particularly when Steam isn't running a specific promotion on a given game.

However, the selection of indie games is comparatively limited; popular recent indie releases such as Terraria and Frozen Synapse are not currently offered.

Download and Installation Process

Amazon eschews the development of a dedicated software client for game downloads.

Purchased games are delivered as straightforward downloads, and upon installation, function identically to games installed from physical media.

A key benefit lies in the familiarity of the Amazon platform; existing users likely already possess an account and stored payment information, streamlining the purchasing and download process.

This pre-existing account setup contributes to a quick and efficient experience when acquiring and installing new games.

Alternative Gaming Platforms

Beyond Steam, numerous other platforms cater to PC gamers. Impulse remains a favored option due to its automatic update functionality and active community features.

A key benefit of Impulse is the ability to launch and play games without requiring the client to be constantly running.

However, concerns have arisen following its acquisition by GameStop, and the client's desktop pop-up advertisements can be disruptive.

Publisher-Specific Stores

Many game publishers, such as Electronic Arts, operate their own dedicated digital storefronts.

While consistently exceptional deals are uncommon, these platforms occasionally offer unique discounts on older or niche titles not widely available elsewhere.