My Top 9 best steam Alternatives 2024

The world of PC gaming is always changing. Today, gamers have many choices beyond Steam. This guide will cover the top 9 Steam alternatives for 2024. These platforms offer different games, special features, and unique experiences to make gaming better.

Whether you want DRM-free games, cloud gaming, or indie games, there's something for everyone. You'll find a platform that fits your gaming style.

Key Takeaways

• Discover the top 9 Steam alternatives for PC gamers in 2024.
• Explore diverse gaming platforms with unique features and game libraries.
• Find options for DRM-free gaming, cloud gaming services, and indie game marketplaces.
• Enhance your gaming experience by considering alternative platforms to Steam.
• Stay up-to-date with the evolving landscape of PC gaming platforms.

1. Steam

Steam, made by Valve, is a giant in PC gaming. It's a top steam and valve alternative with a huge game library. You'll find everything from new hits to old favorites. It's loved for its cloud saving, game achievements, and strong community.

Pros of Steam

• Massive game library with over 50,000 titles, catering to diverse gaming preferences
• Seamless cloud saving, allowing players to pick up their games on any device
• Comprehensive community features, including forums, user reviews, and discussions
• Frequent sales and discounts, making it a cost-effective platform for top pc game stores
• Integrated voice chat and streaming capabilities for enhanced social gaming experiences

Cons of Steam

• Lack of drm-free game platforms and proprietary DRM system, which can be a concern for some gamers
• Occasional performance issues and long download times, especially during peak hours
• Overwhelming game selection can make it challenging to discover new and lesser-known titles
• Concerns over the platform's dominance and potential for monopolistic practices in the PC gaming market

Steam is still a big name in game clients and online gaming services. But, there's a growing need for other options and drm-free game platforms. Gamers looking for variety, flexible DRM, or specific games might enjoy checking out other top pc game stores.

2. Epic Games

The Epic Games Store is a strong choice for gamers and developers looking for something different from Steam. It stands out as an origin alternative in the digital game world.

Pros of the Epic Games Store

• Exclusive game titles: The Epic Games Store has exclusive rights to many big-name games, drawing gamers in.
• Free games: Every week, Epic Games gives away free games, letting users grow their collections without spending.
• Favorable revenue split: Developers get a better deal here, with an 88/12 revenue split, unlike Steam's 70/30.
• User-friendly interface: Its clean design makes it easy for gamers to find and explore new games.

Cons of the Epic Games Store

1. Limited features: It's still growing, missing some of Steam's advanced tools and community features.
2. Ecosystem maturity: Being new, its ecosystem isn't as developed as Steam's, which has been leading the market for years.
3. Controversial exclusivity deals: Some gamers don't like the store's focus on exclusive titles, preferring a more open market.

Feature	Epic Games Store	Steam
Revenue Split	88/12	70/30
Exclusive Titles	Yes	Limited
Free Games	Yes	No
Community Features	Limited	Extensive

The Epic Games Store is a strong origin alternative to Steam, with its own set of features and benefits. It may not be as big or have as many features as Steam yet, but it's growing and offering something new to the table.

"The Epic Games Store has been a game-changer in the digital distribution landscape, challenging the dominance of Steam and offering compelling reasons for both gamers and developers to adopt their platform."

3. Blizzard

Blizzard Entertainment is a top gaming company with its own digital platform, Battle.net. It's loved by fans of games like Overwatch, World of Warcraft, and Diablo. Battle.net makes gaming easy and fun, but it doesn't have as many games or features as some other platforms.

Pros of Battle.net

• Seamless integration with Blizzard's popular game titles, delivering a cohesive gaming experience for fans.
• Reliable and secure platform for downloading, updating, and managing Blizzard games.
• Robust social features, including friends lists, chat, and the ability to join voice channels with other players.
• Efficient automatic game updates, ensuring players always have the latest versions of their favorite Blizzard titles.

Cons of Battle.net

1. Limited game selection, primarily focused on Blizzard's own franchises, which may not appeal to gamers seeking a more diverse library.
2. Lack of advanced features and customization options compared to some of the more feature-rich top Steam competitors.
3. Potential issues with free game launchers and open source gaming platforms that offer a wider range of games and more flexibility.
4. Concerns about DRM-free game stores that provide a more restrictive gaming experience compared to other distribution platforms.

Overall, Battle.net is a great choice for Blizzard fans. It offers a reliable way to play the company's favorite games. But, if you want more games or advanced features, you might prefer other top Steam competitors.

4. Ubisoft Store

The Ubisoft Store, also known as Ubisoft Connect, is a key place for Ubisoft's games. It's a spot where you can find a lot of Ubisoft games and a few others. This platform does more than just sell games. It also offers cloud gaming and lets you play games across different devices, making gaming better.

Pros of the Ubisoft Store

• It has a big collection of Ubisoft games, like Assassin's Creed and Far Cry.
• It works well with Ubisoft Connect, giving you easy access to cloud saves and multiplayer.
• You can play games without needing the internet, thanks to its DRM-free library.
• It has a few third-party games, giving players more choices.
• It often has sales, helping you save money on new and old games.

Cons of the Ubisoft Store

• It doesn't have as many third-party games as Steam or the Epic Games Store.
• Some people have had trouble with certain Ubisoft games, which can be a problem.
• You need to use the Ubisoft Connect launcher, which might be extra for some players.
• It doesn't have all the features that other game clients do, like special community tools.

Feature	Ubisoft Store	Steam	Epic Games Store
Game Selection	Primarily Ubisoft titles with limited third-party offerings	Extensive library of games from various publishers	Growing selection of games, including many exclusives
DRM-free Games	Yes, some Ubisoft titles are DRM-free	Limited DRM-free options	Yes, the Epic Games Store has a dedicated DRM-free game hub
Cloud Gaming	Yes, through Ubisoft Connect	No built-in cloud gaming service	No built-in cloud gaming service
Community Features	Mainly focused on Ubisoft Connect	Robust community features, including forums, user reviews, and modding support	Limited community features compared to Steam

The Ubisoft Store is a great place for playing Ubisoft's games. It offers cloud gaming and lets you play on different devices. But, it has fewer third-party games and requires the Ubisoft Connect launcher, which might not be what everyone wants.

5. Xbox App

The Xbox App used to be called the Microsoft Store. It's where Microsoft puts out its digital games. You can get into a huge library of games with the Xbox Game Pass for a monthly fee. It's great for PC gamers who want to play games beyond just consoles.

Pros of the Xbox App

• Seamless integration with the Xbox ecosystem, allowing for a consistent gaming experience across devices.
• Extensive game library through the Xbox Game Pass service, offering a diverse selection of titles for a single monthly fee.
• Compatibility with a wide range of PC hardware, including support for Linux-friendly game launchers.
• Convenient access to game updates and cloud gaming features, enhancing the overall user experience.

Cons of the Xbox App

1. Limited selection of games compared to other video game distribution platforms, particularly for non-Xbox-exclusive titles.
2. Occasional performance issues and compatibility problems with certain PC gaming setups.
3. Restrictive policies around game ownership and access, which may be a concern for some PC gaming enthusiasts.

The Xbox App is a great choice for gamers who love the Xbox ecosystem or like game subscription models. But, it might not be the best for those wanting a wide range of PC gaming options.

6. GOG (Good Old Games)

GOG (Good Old Games) is a unique platform in the digital game world. It focuses on classic and indie games. This makes it a refreshing choice compared to other platforms with strict digital rights management (DRM).

Pros of GOG

• DRM-free: GOG is known for its games without DRM. This means users can play their games without online activation or restrictive licenses.
• Curated library: GOG's game selection is carefully chosen. It includes quality titles that have been loved for years, from classics to new indie games.
• Compatibility: The platform makes sure older games work well on modern systems. This is great for those who love retro gaming.
• Community features: GOG has a strong community where gamers can share their experiences and talk about the games.
• Frequent sales: GOG often has sales and promotions on the GOG Galaxy platform. This makes it a good choice for gamers who want to grow their game collections without spending a lot.

Cons of GOG

1. Limited selection: GOG's focus on classic and indie games might not appeal to everyone. Some gamers might want the latest big releases.
2. Lack of integration: GOG doesn't work as smoothly with other gaming platforms. It doesn't have cloud saves or other features that make gaming easier.
3. Smaller community: The GOG community is smaller than those on Steam or Epic Games. This means there might be less user-generated content and support.

GOG is great for gamers who like DRM-free games and indie titles. It has a strong community and a focus on preserving digital game collections. But, it might not be the best choice for those who want the newest games or easy cross-platform play.

7. EA App

The EA App, once known as Origin, is run by Electronic Arts (EA), a famous gaming company. It lets users dive into EA's big game library, featuring hits like FIFA, Battlefield, and The Sims. The app offers cloud gaming and a subscription service, but it mainly focuses on EA's games. This makes it a special choice for fans of EA's titles.

Pros of the EA App

• It gives users direct access to a huge list of EA's popular games, including the newest ones.
• There's a subscription service, EA Play, that lets users play a selection of EA games and get exclusive content.
• It has cloud gaming, so players can stream EA games to their devices without installing them locally.
• Features like cloud saves and cross-platform progression make gaming smooth across different devices.

Cons of the EA App

• It only has EA's games, leaving out a huge number of titles on platforms like Steam or the Epic Games Store.
• It doesn't offer the wide range of games and indie titles found on big gaming hubs.
• Some users face technical issues or compatibility problems, especially with older or less supported games.
• The app's interface and navigation might not be as easy to use as other top digital stores.

The EA App is great for accessing EA's games, but its limited scope might not attract gamers looking for a wide range of games. If you're into EA's games, the app could be a useful addition to your gaming setup.

Feature	Description
Game Library	Has a big collection of EA's popular games, including the latest ones.
Subscription Service	EA Play, a subscription service that gives access to some EA games and exclusive content.
Cloud Gaming	Allows streaming of certain EA games to devices without needing local installations.
Cross-Platform Progression	Users can easily continue their games on different devices.
Accessibility	Works on many platforms, including PC, consoles, and mobile devices.

8. Itch.io

Itch.io is a popular spot for indie game makers and fans. It's different from big names like Steam and Battle.net. It focuses on creativity, new ideas, and special games.

Pros of Itch.io

• It helps indie game creators show and sell their work. This creates a community for unique and new games.
• The itch.io store has a huge selection of indie and niche games. There's something for every type of gamer.
• Developers can set their own prices and keep more of the money. This is great for creators wanting a fair deal.
• The site is easy to use and lets developers customize their store. This helps them connect better with their fans.

Cons of Itch.io

1. Itch.io is mainly known among indie game fans. It might not be as well-known as big pc gaming marketplaces like Steam or Epic Games.
2. It has a smaller user base than big gaming clients like battle.net. This might make it harder for some games to be found.
3. Itch.io doesn't have as many marketing tools as big online game stores. This can make it tough for indie developers to get noticed.

Even with its downsides, Itch.io is a special place for indie game fans and creators. It offers a fresh choice compared to the big top steam competitors.

Feature	Itch.io	Steam	Epic Games
Game Selection	Focuses on indie and experimental games	Has a huge library of mainstream and indie games	Offers a mix of mainstream and indie games
Revenue Share	Developers can keep up to 100% of the revenue	Developers get 70% of the revenue	Developers earn 88% of the revenue
Accessibility	Easy to use and customizable	Has lots of features	Simple and easy to navigate

This table shows how Itch.io, Steam, and Epic Games are different. It highlights what makes each pc gaming marketplace special.

9. Origin

Origin is now called the EA App. It's a platform by Electronic Arts for digital games. It mainly has EA's games like Battlefield, The Sims, and FIFA. While it has cloud gaming and a subscription, it might not have enough games for everyone pc gaming clients.

Pros of Origin

• Seamless access to a wide range of EA game titles
• Offers a subscription-based service for a curated library of games
• Integrates cloud gaming functionality for a more flexible gaming experience
• Provides automatic game updates and a centralized game launcher

Cons of Origin

1. Limited to primarily EA's own game titles, reducing the overall game selection
2. Subscription-based service may be less appealing to gamers who prefer to own their games outright
3. Some users have reported technical issues and compatibility problems with certain games
4. The platform's user interface and navigation can be less intuitive compared to some top steam alternative launchers

Feature	Origin	Ubisoft Connect	Steam
Game Selection	Primarily EA titles	Ubisoft and third-party titles	Wide range of games across various publishers
Subscription Service	Yes (EA Play)	No	Yes (Steam Deck)
Cloud Gaming	Yes	No	Yes (Steam Cloud)
User Interface	Somewhat complex	Intuitive and user-friendly	Highly customizable and streamlined

Origin, or the EA App, is for fans of EA's games. It has cool features like cloud gaming and a subscription. But, it might not have enough games for everyone online gaming hubs. It's important to think about the good and bad before choosing it for your gaming.

"Origin is a great platform for EA fans, but its limited game selection may not satisfy the broader needs of many top steam alternative launchers."

Conclusion

The world of PC gaming has changed a lot. Gamers now have many choices besides the big Steam platform. Options like the Epic Games Store, GOG, and Itch.io offer different strengths for various gaming tastes.

Looking into these steam alternative platforms can open up new gaming worlds. You can grow your game collection and find the best fit for your PC gaming in 2024 and later. Whether you want more features, a wider game selection, or better privacy, these leading steam rivals have a lot to offer.

As gaming keeps changing, it's key to keep up with the newest best digital game distribution services and top steam alternative launchers. These can improve your steam alternatives for pc gaming and give you access to the most popular steam alternatives in 2024 and beyond.

FAQ

What are the top Steam alternatives for PC gaming in 2024?

Top Steam alternatives for PC gaming in 2024 include Epic Games Store, Blizzard's Battle.net, Ubisoft Store, Xbox App, GOG (Good Old Games), EA App, Itch.io, and Origin.

What are the pros and cons of using the Epic Games Store as a Steam alternative?

The Epic Games Store has exclusive titles and free games. It also gives developers a better revenue share. But, it lacks mature features and has fewer games than Steam.

How does Blizzard's Battle.net platform compare to Steam as a gaming platform?

Blizzard's Battle.net is great for fans of Blizzard's games like Overwatch and World of Warcraft. It offers a simple gaming experience. But, it doesn't have as many games or features as Steam.

What are the key features and benefits of the Ubisoft Store (Ubisoft Connect) as a Steam alternative?

The Ubisoft Store, or Ubisoft Connect, has a selection of Ubisoft and some third-party games. It offers cloud gaming and works across platforms. But, it focuses mainly on Ubisoft's games.

How does the Xbox App (Microsoft Store) compare to Steam for PC gaming?

The Xbox App, once the Microsoft Store, has Xbox Game Pass for a lot of games for a monthly fee. It helps console and PC gamers alike, reaching beyond traditional gaming.

What makes GOG (Good Old Games) a unique Steam alternative?

GOG focuses on DRM-free games, especially classics and indie titles. It's a place for gamers who want to avoid digital rights management, offering a special gaming experience.

How does the EA App (previously Origin) compare to Steam as a digital game distribution platform?

The EA App, once Origin, is for Electronic Arts' games like Battlefield and The Sims. It has cloud gaming and a subscription service. But, it mainly has EA's games, not as many as Steam.

What makes Itch.io a unique and alternative platform to Steam for PC gaming?

Itch.io is a community-driven platform for indie and niche games. It's open-source and focuses on creativity and innovation. It's a unique place for gamers looking for something different.

How does the Origin (EA App) platform compare to other Steam alternatives?

The Origin, now the EA App, is for EA's games like Battlefield and The Sims. It has cloud gaming and a subscription service. But, it has fewer games than other Steam alternatives.