Valve has updated Steam’s game purchase policy ahead of new California legislation requiring storefronts to be transparent about customers only buying a license for digital content, not ownership. The legislation, known as AB 2426, was signed into law by governor Gavin Newsom and will go into effect next year. The law aims to educate consumers about the temporary nature of digital ownership and prohibits sellers from using terms that imply full ownership.
Steam’s shopping cart now includes a message informing customers that purchasing a digital product grants them a license for the product on Steam. This change is displayed internationally, including in the UK. The message is followed by a link to the Steam Subscriber Agreement for additional information.
It’s important to note that California’s legislation does not apply to games offered through subscription services, free games, or games that can be downloaded and played offline permanently. GOG, a DRM-free game storefront, has also responded to Steam’s changes by joking about adding its own checkout banner stating that purchasing a digital product on GOG grants access to Offline Installers.
The legislation comes in response to instances where games were removed from players’ libraries, such as Ubisoft revoking licenses to The Crew and PlayStation shutting down servers for the PS5 shooter Concord. These actions have sparked conversations about video game preservation and led to initiatives like Stop Killing Games, which aims to challenge the trend of purchased games becoming unplayable through political and legal means.
While legislation like AB 2426 may not solve the root issue, it is a step towards better informing consumers about the nature of their digital purchases. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, it is crucial for both consumers and platforms to understand the terms of ownership for digital content. Stay informed and aware when making digital purchases to ensure you know what you are getting with each transaction.