Steam, the leading online gaming storefront, has become a digital haven for gamers, akin to an electronic version of GameStop or a software-centric Amazon. With its user-friendly interface, it offers an array of enticing deals, seamless game installations, and the ability to connect with friends while streaming games across devices. Yet, beyond the allure of seasonal sales, there exists a deeper connection that keeps many users, including myself, returning to this platform.
My journey with Steam
It’s a place to call home
My journey with Steam began in 2011, a bit late to the party, but it quickly became a significant part of my gaming life. My inaugural purchase was the Stronghold Collection, followed closely by Terraria, and I couldn’t resist acquiring Skyrim the moment it launched on PC. Over the years, I have amassed over 5,000 hours of gameplay across these titles, particularly enjoying multiplayer sessions with friends in Terraria. While my library boasts just over 300 games, many remain untouched, a humorous predicament that resonates with countless gamers and often serves as fodder for memes about Steam accounts.
For a long time, my gaming experience was tethered to Windows, primarily due to compatibility issues with Linux. The Epic Games Store came and went without my participation, largely due to my dissatisfaction with its market entry and business practices. GOG, with its noble mission to preserve classic titles, holds a special place in my heart, though its Linux support leaves much to be desired. This trend of limited Linux compatibility has been a recurring theme in my gaming journey.
I primarily game on Linux
Proton is the best thing since sliced bread
For years, Windows was my primary operating system, often running alongside various Linux distributions. My gaming hours were predominantly spent on titles developed for Microsoft’s platform, with a few exceptions like the browser-based MMORPG RuneScape. However, the advent of Proton has transformed my gaming landscape, enabling me to access most of my Steam library on Linux. This shift was once daunting; using Wine felt like navigating a labyrinth, requiring intricate setups that often resulted in frustration.
Valve’s development of Proton has simplified this process dramatically. By leveraging the power of Wine, they have created a streamlined experience that allows users to install and play games with minimal hassle. The launch of the Steam Deck, which operates on Steam OS based on Arch Linux, further propelled the need for robust Linux gaming support. This initiative not only benefits Steam users but also enhances gaming experiences across various Linux distributions.
Valve offers much more than Steam
Giving back to the community
Valve’s contributions to the gaming community extend far beyond merely providing a platform for game distribution. The company has been instrumental in the development of iconic titles such as Portal and has played a pivotal role in popularizing the MOBA genre with DOTA 2. Their commitment to supporting indie developers through Steam has revolutionized how smaller studios reach audiences, while projects like DXVK and Vulkan demonstrate their dedication to advancing gaming technology.
By championing open platforms like Linux, Valve helps ensure that gamers retain access to a diverse range of titles, countering potential monopolistic tendencies from larger corporations. As I continue to engage with Steam, I find myself among millions who share a similar sentiment, appreciating the platform’s unique offerings while remaining vigilant for any compelling reasons to explore alternatives.
