Steam is a broadband business platform for direct software delivery and content
management. At its core, Steam is a distributed file system and shared set of
technology components that can be implemented into any software application.
With Steam, developers are given integrated tools for direct-content publishing,
flexible billing, ensured-version control, anti-cheating, anti-piracy, and more.
Steam consumers enjoy the benefit of starting their applications within minutes of confirming their purchase. They can access their applications from any PC. They are no longer challenged to find the latest updates for these applications. And they no longer need to wonder if their device drivers are compatible with the latest software.
Once you've installed Steam, all of the following features are available on your desktop and while you're playing Steam games.
The majority of games supported by Steam are created by Valve Software but there are an increasing number of third party games appearing. These games can be purchased through Steam for a reduced price and will allow you to immediately start playing them. Over the past year, several other developers have found their games being distributed via Steam. One such example is Ritual, who took a leaf out of Valves book and took the Sin franchise Episodic. The list of games available on Steam has tripled, with hit titles such as Psychonauts and Advent Rising finding their way onto Steam users accounts.
Valve's flagship product Half-Life 2 is no exception to this and can be purchased from Steam. Every game can be purchased singly or part of a value package deal.
Steam Support
Steam and Valve game support can be found at http://steampowered.custhelp.com. You will find a massive knowledgebase packed with frequently asked questions and answers as well as get the option of contacting the support team directly. If you ever get some problems this is the place to go.
Steam consumers enjoy the benefit of starting their applications within minutes of confirming their purchase. They can access their applications from any PC. They are no longer challenged to find the latest updates for these applications. And they no longer need to wonder if their device drivers are compatible with the latest software.
Once you've installed Steam, all of the following features are available on your desktop and while you're playing Steam games.
- Easy and fast access to games
After installing Steam, you'll have instant access to Valve's full library of games. And when you choose one to play, you don't have to wait for the whole thing to download — you can start playing in a matter of minutes.
- Automatic updates
Say goodbye to game patches forever–they're a thing of the past. Steam will keep all of its games up-to-date for as long as you want to keep playing them. No more hunting for download sites just to get up and running!
- Instant messaging, even in game
Keep in touch with your buddies through "Friends," Steam's instant-messenger. It even works while you or your friends are playing games — you don't have to stop playing to communicate.
- Server browser
Now it's incredibly easy to find a quality game server — one that's fast, that's running your favourite game, and even one that has your friends already playing.
- Special offers
Steam-only special offers: From pre-release discounts to free-play weekends, Steam delivers what gamers value most.
- Steam account protection
Valve's program protects members against banned accounts and can assist a café when accounts are stolen.
- Parlour games
Maybe you're dodging your homework. Maybe you're just bored while waiting for another turn in Counter-Strike. Either way — why not enjoy a nice game of Chess? Or Checkers? Or Go? Or Hearts… Or….
- Play your games on any PC
Once you have a Steam account, you can sign in from any PC and access your games. Your games are associated with your account, not your computer.
The majority of games supported by Steam are created by Valve Software but there are an increasing number of third party games appearing. These games can be purchased through Steam for a reduced price and will allow you to immediately start playing them. Over the past year, several other developers have found their games being distributed via Steam. One such example is Ritual, who took a leaf out of Valves book and took the Sin franchise Episodic. The list of games available on Steam has tripled, with hit titles such as Psychonauts and Advent Rising finding their way onto Steam users accounts.
Valve's flagship product Half-Life 2 is no exception to this and can be purchased from Steam. Every game can be purchased singly or part of a value package deal.
Steam Support
Steam and Valve game support can be found at http://steampowered.custhelp.com. You will find a massive knowledgebase packed with frequently asked questions and answers as well as get the option of contacting the support team directly. If you ever get some problems this is the place to go.
