You Own Access, Not Games: Steam's New Licensing Alert
In the ever-evolving world of gaming, a new law in California is set to change how we perceive digital purchases. Steam, a popular gaming platform, now informs its users that they are buying a license, not the game itself. This change comes in anticipation of a California law effective in 2025, ensuring digital marketplaces clearly communicate the nature of digital purchases. This move aims to protect consumers from misleading advertisements, especially after incidents where players lost access to games they thought they owned.
Understanding the New Law
California's new law, AB 2426, mandates that digital marketplaces like Steam clarify the nature of digital purchases. It prohibits the use of terms like "buy" or "purchase" that imply full ownership of digital content.
The law allows for clear language indicating that the purchase is merely a license to use the content. This license can expire, and failure to comply may result in fines for false advertising.
The Impact on Gamers
This law addresses past issues where games were removed from players' libraries due to server shutdowns. For instance, Ubisoft faced backlash for removing "The Crew" from players' libraries when its servers went offline.
Although Ubisoft added offline modes to "The Crew 2" and "The Crew Motorfest," the original game was not reinstated, highlighting the importance of this legislative change.
Steam's Proactive Approach
Steam has taken the initiative to implement this warning globally, including in regions like France. This warning appears during the checkout process, informing users that they are purchasing a license, not full ownership.
This proactive step by Steam ensures that gamers worldwide are aware of the terms of their digital purchases.
Why This Matters
With the shift from physical to digital media, protecting consumers in digital transactions is crucial. Jacqui Irwin, the author of the bill, emphasized the importance of this protection.
- Ensures transparency in digital purchases
- Prevents misleading advertising
- Protects consumer rights in the digital age
While this law does not prevent companies from revoking access to content, it ensures that consumers are informed about the nature of their purchases before completing a transaction.
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