Best Gaming Platforms Like Steam

When it comes to gaming, Steam has long been the gold standard. However, the gaming ecosystem is rich with alternatives that offer unique features and experiences. Whether you're seeking a new platform for exclusive games, better community features, or different pricing models, there are several noteworthy contenders. In this article, we'll explore the best gaming platforms like Steam, offering detailed comparisons and insights into their strengths and weaknesses. From Epic Games Store’s aggressive free game offerings to GOG’s commitment to DRM-free content, you'll discover which platform might be your next gaming home.

Epic Games Store: A Rising Competitor

Epic Games Store (EGS) has emerged as a significant competitor to Steam, primarily due to its aggressive strategies and exclusive game offerings. Launched in December 2018, Epic Games Store quickly made a name for itself with its bold approach to attracting both developers and gamers.

Exclusive Titles and Free Games

One of the biggest draws of EGS is its exclusive titles. Epic has secured a range of high-profile exclusives that aren’t available on Steam, such as "Control" and "Metro Exodus". Additionally, EGS offers free games every week, which has been a strong incentive for gamers to check out the platform regularly. This model not only introduces gamers to new titles but also adds significant value to their gaming library.

Revenue Sharing Model

Epic Games Store offers a more developer-friendly revenue sharing model compared to Steam. Epic takes only a 12% cut of the revenue, whereas Steam takes a 30% cut. This lower fee has attracted many developers, resulting in a diverse range of games and experiences. This shift in revenue sharing is seen as a major advantage for EGS, encouraging more indie and large developers to publish on the platform.

User Experience and Features

The user interface of Epic Games Store is straightforward and functional, though it lacks some of the advanced features found on Steam. For example, Steam’s community features, including forums, user reviews, and mod support, are more developed compared to EGS. However, Epic is continuously improving its platform, with updates aimed at enhancing user experience and adding new functionalities.

GOG Galaxy: DRM-Free and Community-Driven

GOG (Good Old Games) Galaxy stands out from the crowd due to its commitment to DRM-free games. Established in 2008, GOG has been a haven for gamers who prefer to own their games outright without digital rights management restrictions.

DRM-Free Philosophy

The DRM-free philosophy of GOG Galaxy is its biggest selling point. This means that once you purchase a game, you own it entirely, without needing to be connected to the internet to verify your ownership. This model appeals to gamers who value control over their game libraries and dislike the restrictions that come with DRM.

Classic and Indie Games

GOG Galaxy is renowned for its extensive library of classic games and indie titles. The platform offers a curated selection of older games, many of which are updated to run on modern systems. Additionally, GOG has a robust selection of indie games that often aren’t available on other platforms, providing gamers with unique and diverse options.

Community Features and Modding Support

GOG Galaxy offers a range of community features, including forums and user reviews. It also supports modding, which enhances the replayability and customization of many games. GOG’s focus on community-driven content and user interaction is a key differentiator from other platforms.

Origin: EA’s Gaming Ecosystem

Origin, developed by Electronic Arts (EA), is another alternative to Steam. Launched in 2011, Origin serves as the primary distribution platform for EA’s extensive library of games.

EA Play Subscription Service

A notable feature of Origin is the EA Play subscription service, which provides access to a library of EA games, early access to upcoming titles, and various discounts. This subscription model adds value for gamers who are fans of EA’s offerings, giving them access to a wide range of games for a monthly fee.

Exclusive EA Titles

Origin is the exclusive platform for many popular EA titles, including "The Sims" series and "Battlefield" series. If you’re a fan of EA’s franchises, Origin is essential for accessing these games and their updates.

Interface and Features

The Origin interface is designed to integrate seamlessly with EA’s game offerings, providing easy access to game libraries, updates, and social features. However, the platform has been critiqued for its lack of some community features found on Steam, such as user-generated content and extensive modding support.

UPlay: Ubisoft’s Digital Platform

Ubisoft’s UPlay is another significant player in the gaming platform arena. Launched in 2009, UPlay focuses on Ubisoft’s extensive catalog of games and offers several unique features.

Ubisoft Connect

UPlay has been rebranded as Ubisoft Connect, which integrates with Ubisoft’s ecosystem, offering a range of features such as in-game rewards, achievements, and social connections. Ubisoft Connect also ties into Ubisoft’s various games, providing a unified experience across different titles.

Exclusive Ubisoft Titles

Similar to Origin, UPlay is the exclusive platform for many Ubisoft games, including popular franchises like "Assassin’s Creed" and "Far Cry". Gamers who enjoy Ubisoft’s titles will find UPlay essential for accessing and managing these games.

Community and Rewards

Ubisoft Connect offers a variety of community features, including leaderboards and challenges. The platform also provides rewards for completing in-game objectives, which adds an additional layer of engagement for players.

Itch.io: Indie Game Haven

Itch.io is a unique platform that caters to indie developers and gamers looking for unconventional and experimental games. Founded in 2013, Itch.io has become a hub for indie game enthusiasts.

Support for Indie Developers

Itch.io provides a platform for indie developers to showcase their games, often with flexible pricing models and revenue-sharing options. This has led to a diverse and innovative collection of games, many of which are not available on larger platforms.

Unique Games and Demos

The platform is known for its experimental and unique games, including game jams and prototypes. Itch.io allows developers to release early access or unfinished games, giving gamers the opportunity to explore new and creative ideas.

Community and Accessibility

Itch.io has a strong community focus, with forums and support for developers and gamers alike. The platform’s open nature makes it accessible for both game creators and players, fostering a vibrant and diverse gaming ecosystem.

Microsoft Store: Integrating Gaming with Windows

The Microsoft Store has integrated gaming into its broader digital ecosystem, offering a range of games alongside apps and other digital content.

Xbox Game Pass

A significant feature of the Microsoft Store is Xbox Game Pass, a subscription service that provides access to a rotating selection of games for a monthly fee. This service offers a vast library of games, including both new releases and classic titles.

Integration with Windows

The Microsoft Store is tightly integrated with Windows, providing a seamless experience for PC gamers. The platform offers a range of games, from major releases to indie titles, and benefits from Microsoft’s extensive digital infrastructure.

Community and Social Features

The Microsoft Store includes social features such as friends lists and achievements, which enhance the gaming experience. However, it may not offer as extensive a range of community features as some other platforms.

Conclusion

Each of these platforms offers distinct advantages and features, making them viable alternatives to Steam. Whether you’re drawn to the free games of Epic Games Store, the DRM-free content of GOG Galaxy, the EA-exclusive titles on Origin, the Ubisoft games on UPlay, the indie offerings on Itch.io, or the integration with Windows on the Microsoft Store, there’s a platform to suit every gamer’s needs. Exploring these options will help you find the best fit for your gaming preferences and needs.