If you’re a PC gamer, you’re probably familiar with Valve’s Steam platform. Steam is an online store and digital distribution platform for video games, which allows users to download and play games directly from their computers.
One of the key features of Steam is that it has a vast library of games available for purchase and download. However, there are some games that are not available on Steam or are only available through other means of distribution. In this article, we’ll explore whether you can be penalized for playing games not purchased on Steam.
The Risks of Playing Non-Steam Games
While it’s possible to play games that aren’t available on Steam, there are some risks involved in doing so:
- Compatibility Issues
One of the biggest risks of playing non-Steam games is compatibility issues. Not all games are designed to work with every version of Windows or other operating systems, and non-Steam games may not be optimized for your computer’s hardware. This can result in slow performance, crashes, and other problems.
- Malware and Viruses
Another risk of playing non-Steam games is the potential for malware and viruses. Non-Steam games may come from untrustworthy sources and may be infected with malicious software that can harm your computer.
- Legal Issues
Playing non-Steam games may also have legal implications. Some games are copyrighted and protected by law, and distributing or playing them without the owner’s permission may be illegal. Additionally, some games may have restrictions on where they can be played or distributed, which could potentially put you in violation of those restrictions.
- Steam Account Issues
If you’re using a Steam account to play non-Steam games, there’s also the risk of account issues. Valve has the right to ban accounts that are used for copyright infringement or other illegal activities, and playing non-Steam games could potentially put your account at risk.
Summary
While it’s possible to play games that aren’t available on Steam, there are some risks involved in doing so. Compatibility issues, malware and viruses, legal implications, and Steam account issues are all potential consequences of playing non-Steam games. If you’re unsure about whether a game is available on Steam or not, it’s generally safer to stick with Steam’s library of games.