Steam has recently made a notable update to its shopping cart page, introducing a banner beneath the ‘Continue to Payment’ button that clarifies the nature of game purchases on its platform. The message succinctly states, “A purchase of a digital product grants a license for the product on Steam.” This change appears to be a direct response to California’s new legislation, AB 2426, which stipulates that sellers of digital goods must avoid using terms like “buy” or “purchase” that imply unrestricted ownership. The law mandates that consumers receive a clear statement regarding their rights when acquiring digital products.
Impact of Licensing on Gamers
As the leading PC gaming platform globally, Steam’s approach to digital game sales has significant implications for the gaming industry. Unlike traditional ownership, where a buyer retains full rights to a product, Steam operates on a licensing model. This means that while players can enjoy their favorite titles, they do not possess outright ownership; instead, the game developers maintain control over the content. Consequently, if a developer decides to remove a title from Steam, it will also vanish from the user’s library, although games already downloaded onto a user’s device remain accessible.
This licensing model has sparked dissatisfaction among many gamers, who feel a lack of complete control over their digital collections. In contrast, GOG (Good Old Games) offers a different proposition. Once a game is purchased on GOG, it remains in the user’s library indefinitely, regardless of the developer’s actions. This distinction highlights a fundamental difference in how digital ownership is perceived and managed across platforms.
In light of the recent trend in checkout banners, GOG has also playfully hinted at introducing its own messaging, stating, “A purchase of a digital product on GOG grants you its Offline Installers, which cannot be taken away from you.” This statement underscores GOG’s commitment to providing a sense of permanence and security in digital purchases, appealing to gamers who value long-term access to their games.
The ongoing debate surrounding licensing versus purchasing in the gaming industry reflects broader concerns about ownership in the digital age. As consumers navigate an increasingly complex landscape of digital libraries and subscription services, the desire for genuine ownership remains a critical issue. While some platforms adapt to legal requirements, others continue to champion the idea of permanent access to purchased content, ensuring that the conversation around digital ownership remains vibrant and relevant.
