Valve, the company behind the popular digital distribution platform Steam, has updated its checkout process. Specifically, the new update explicitly states that users do not own the games they purchase. This change is likely in anticipation of a new California law. Furthermore, this law goes into effect next year and requires digital storefronts to clarify the nature of digital purchases.
California Law Prompts Change in Steam Checkout Process
Previously, Steam users were led to believe they were purchasing the games outright. However, the new message on the payment checkout screen now states, “A purchase of a digital product grants a licence for the product on Steam.” This aligns with the terms of service for many digital distribution platforms, which stipulate that users are purchasing a licence to access and play the game, rather than outright ownership.
While the new disclosure is currently visible in the Steam desktop app, it has not yet been implemented in the mobile app. Some Steam users noticed the change earlier this week and shared their findings on Reddit.
The California law will take effect in 2025. Its goal is to protect consumers by ensuring that digital storefronts are transparent about the nature of digital purchases. This legislation, therefore, comes in response to incidents involving companies like Ubisoft and PlayStation. Specifically, these companies have removed digital purchases from users’ libraries, which has prevented access to games or media that consumers had previously bought.
The law does not apply to games that can be downloaded as offline installers. This includes games available from DRM-free platforms like Good Old Games. Valve’s proactive implementation of the new message indicates they are trying to comply with the upcoming legislation. They aim to avoid potential legal issues.
