Introduction
For avid gamers, Steam is the go-to platform for purchasing and playing games on PC. However, many users are unaware of the Family Sharing feature offered by Steam. This feature allows users to share their game libraries with family and friends, thereby saving money and building communities. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to share games on Steam and explore the benefits and precautions associated with the process.
Step-by-step Guide on How to Share your Steam Games
Sharing games on Steam involves setting up Family Sharing, authorizing devices, and accessing shared libraries. Here’s how you can do it:
A. How to set up Family Sharing on Steam
To enable Family Sharing, you need to set up a Family Library Sharing group on Steam. Here are the steps to do it:
- Open Steam and navigate to ‘Steam’ in the top-left corner.
- Select ‘Settings’ and then click on the ‘Family’ tab.
- Choose to ‘Authorize Library Sharing on this computer’.
- Add family members or friends by entering their email addresses.
- Authorize shared libraries manually or automatically by clicking on ‘Authorize Library Sharing’.
- Confirm that you agree to the terms and conditions of the Family Library Sharing feature.
B. How to authorize a device to share your library
Once you have set up your Family Sharing group, you need to authorize devices to access your shared library. Here’s how:
- Log in to Steam on the authorized device using your account credentials.
- Open ‘Settings’ and select ‘Family’.
- Choose the shared library that you want to access on the device.
- Enter the PIN sent to your email to authorize the device.
- The shared library will now appear in your Steam library on the authorized device.
C. How to access games shared by others
If someone has shared their game library with you, here’s how to access the games:
- Log in to Steam using your own account credentials.
- Open your library and choose the game you want to play.
- The game should already be visible in your library.
- If prompted, enter the PIN sent to your email to authorize access to the shared library.
- The game will now be available for play on your device.
D. Troubleshooting common issues
If you encounter issues while setting up or accessing shared libraries, here are some common problems and solutions:
- If your authorized device cannot access the shared library, try restarting Steam or the device.
- If you cannot share your library with a family member or friend, ensure that both of you have enabled Family Sharing and authorized each other’s libraries.
- If a shared game is not playable, verify that both you and the owner of the shared library are not playing the game simultaneously.
Tips on How to Make Use of Steam’s Family Sharing Feature
While sharing games on Steam is a great way to build a gaming community, it requires some ground rules and etiquette for a smooth experience. Here are some tips to help you:
A. Setting ground rules for borrowing and lending games
Before sharing your games, discuss and establish ground rules with your family or friends to avoid misunderstandings. Determine the duration of borrowing and lending, the number of games to share, and the condition of the games.
B. How to access borrowed games across platforms
Family Sharing supports cross-platform access, meaning that you can play shared games on Mac, Windows, and Linux devices. However, some games may require specific hardware or software components.
C. Avoiding conflicts with simultaneous game access
Steam allows only one person to access a shared library at a time. Suppose someone is playing a game from your shared library, and you need to play a different game from the same library simultaneously. In that case, you can purchase another copy of the game or buy it on an alternative platform.
D. Maximizing the benefits of sharing games with loved ones
Game sharing on Steam is an excellent opportunity to enjoy different games and genres with loved ones. Encourage your family and friends to share their games with you and try new games that you may not have considered before.
Exploring the Benefits of Sharing Games on Steam
The Family Sharing feature offered by Steam provides numerous benefits to both owners and borrowers of game libraries. Some benefits are:
A. Saving money on game purchases
By sharing game libraries, you can save money on game purchases and limit the number of devices needed to play a game. This feature is especially helpful for families or friends who want to access multiple games without the cost of buying them individually.
B. Discovering new games through shared libraries
Sharing your game library with others allows you to expand your gaming collection and discover new games you may not have thought of playing before.
C. Building social connections through shared gaming experiences
Playing games with loved ones and discussing gaming experiences can help build social connections and strengthen relationships. It provides an opportunity to bond with friends and family, even when they are not physically present.
D. Enjoying a sense of community in a digital gaming world
By sharing game libraries, Steam users can build a virtual community and enjoy gaming as a group activity. It provides an opportunity for gamers to share tips, strategies, and gaming experiences with each other.
Overview of Precautions Steam Users Need to Take When Sharing Games
Sharing game libraries on Steam is safe. However, users must take certain precautions to ensure their security and the security of their personal and financial information.
A. Protecting your personal and financial information
When setting up Family Sharing or authorizing devices, ensure that you enable two-factor authentication and use a strong password. Never share your login information or personal data with anyone.
B. Understanding the limitations and rules of Steam’s Family Sharing feature
Steam has specific rules and limitations for Family Sharing, including the number of allowed shared library accounts, shared games, and simultaneous game access. Read and understand the terms and conditions before starting to share your games.
C. Avoiding potential penalties and consequences
Sharing or selling illegally obtained or pirated games is illegal and can result in penalties and consequences. Only share games that you have legally purchased and have the right to share.
D. Being mindful of the impact on your own and others’ gaming experiences
Remember that game sharing can have an impact on the owner and borrower’s gaming experience, such as game progress and achievements saved, cloud storage data, and more. Be mindful of the impact of sharing and borrowing games, and discuss it with the relevant parties.
List of Steam Games Perfect to Share with Others, and How to Share Them
Here are some of the best games for sharing with family and friends and tips on sharing them:
A. Best games for co-op, multiplayer, and family fun
- Overcooked
- Left 4 Dead 2
- Portal 2
- Gang Beasts
- Rocket League
- Jackbox Party Pack
B. How to choose games to share based on age, interests, and preferences
Before sharing games, consider the age, interests, and preferences of the borrowers. If children are involved, ensure that the games are age-appropriate. Also, consider the game genre and gameplay style that the borrower enjoys.
C. Tips on game sharing etiquette and communication with shared library users
Communication is essential when sharing games on Steam. Discuss and agree upon borrowing and lending terms, notify the owner when borrowing or returning a game, and be mindful of the impact of accessing the shared library.
Conclusion
Steam’s Family Sharing feature is an excellent opportunity for Steam users to save money, build communities, and enjoy shared gaming experiences. This article has provided a step-by-step guide on how to share games on Steam, tips on making use of the Family Sharing feature, exploring the benefits of sharing games, precautions to take, and a list of games to share. We encourage Steam users to try out Family Sharing, share their experiences, and build meaningful connections with family and friends.