Steam knows playing together as a family is special. That’s why they have made something new called Steam Families. It’s a big change that makes sharing games with your family easier and more fun. Let’s explore what Steam Families is all about and how it’s going to make gaming with your family even better.
Inside Steam Families’ revamped game-sharing system
Steam Families is a revamped family sharing system on the Steam platform, allowing users to share their game libraries with up to five family members. It removes the previous limitations on simultaneous gameplay and introduces enhanced parental controls, simplified game purchases for kids, and support for offline play.
Here’s everything you need to know about it:
- Expanded game sharing: One of the most notable changes is the removal of limitations on sharing libraries. Under the previous system, only one person could access a shared game library at a time. With Steam Families, multiple family members can now play games from a shared library simultaneously, eliminating the frustration of waiting for turns.
- Simplified setup: Previously, users had to navigate between different systems like Family Sharing and Family View to manage sharing and access restrictions. Steam Families streamlines this process, integrating all sharing and parental control features into a single, user-friendly interface.
- Parental controls: Steam Families introduces comprehensive parental controls, empowering parents to manage their children’s gaming experiences with precision. This includes the ability to restrict access to specific games, monitor playtime, and set time-based restrictions to ensure a healthy balance between gaming and other activities.
- Easy game purchases: Buying games for kids is now simpler and more secure with Steam Families. Parents can approve their children’s requests for games directly, removing the need for gift cards or sharing credit card information. This streamlined approach enhances convenience and peace of mind for parents.
- Offline play: Steam Families supports offline play, allowing family members to access shared games even without an internet connection. This flexibility ensures uninterrupted gaming experiences, regardless of connectivity issues.
- Beta program access: To access Steam Families, users need to join the beta program by enabling the “Steam Family Beta” option in their Steam settings. Once enrolled, they can create a family and begin enjoying the benefits of the new system. Here is how to do it:
- Join the Steam Family Beta program in settings.
- Go to Family Management in your account details.
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- Create a family and invite up to five members.
- Members accept invitations.
- Start sharing games and enjoy playing together.
- Manage settings as needed.
- Developer approval: While most titles are compatible with Steam Families, developers have the authority to approve their games for sharing. Certain exceptions, such as free-to-play games or those requiring third-party keys or subscriptions, may not be eligible for sharing.
- Region-locked sharing: It’s important to note that Steam Families is region-locked, meaning sharing arrangements may be limited by geographical boundaries. Users sharing with individuals in other countries may encounter restrictions under the new system.
- Departure restrictions: When a family member leaves a family, there is a one-year cooldown period before they can join or create another family. This limitation encourages stability and discourages frequent changes within family sharing arrangements.
In summary, Steam Families represents a comprehensive overhaul of Steam’s family sharing system, offering expanded sharing capabilities, enhanced parental controls, simplified game purchases, and improved offline play support. While certain limitations exist, such as regional restrictions and developer approval requirements, the overall benefits make Steam Families a game-changing addition for gaming households worldwide.
For more detailed information about the Steam Families feature, click here.
Featured image credit: Steam
