As the holiday season approaches, many gamers find themselves on the hunt for the latest video games. Gone are the days of trudging to your neighbourhood game store; the digital realm has transformed shopping into a quick and effortless experience. With faster online connections, purchasing or renting games from an online marketplace is now a breeze. Just as grocery retailers like Whole Foods and 7-Eleven cater to diverse culinary cravings, the various game platforms we’ve explored meet a wide array of gaming preferences—none more notable than the Editors” Choice winner, Steam. Below, you will discover all the essential information you need to embark on your quest for the best PC games.
Where can one acquire PC games in the vast expanse of the internet? The platforms mentioned earlier primarily focus on delivering computer games compatible with Linux, macOS, and Windows for direct digital download. While you might occasionally stumble upon books, movies, software, and other forms of entertainment, these are not the main attractions. It’s also worth noting that console and mobile games can be downloaded too; for instance, Xbox’s PC application offers Microsoft Flight Simulator, and Humble Bundle has recently included Nintendo Switch codes in its offerings.
However, it’s essential to acknowledge that some third-party publishers insist on having their titles downloaded exclusively through their platforms. Names like Blizzard’s Battle.net, EA’s Origin, Rockstar’s Launcher, and Ubisoft’s Uplay come to mind. Thankfully, many of these publishers have begun to ease those restrictions, making their games available across multiple storefronts. With the emergence of subscription services such as Apple Arcade, GameClub, and Xbox Game Pass (accessible on both console and PC), gaming companies are eager to promote this model as a new avenue for distributing titles on their devices. Even unexpected players like Discord and Twitch have entered the fray, offering games for sale or bundling free titles with their subscriptions.
Once upon a time, in the realm of online gaming, two notable stores, GameFly and Green Man Gaming, underwent significant transformations since our last exploration of their offerings. Green Man Gaming, known for its unique approach, has taken to selling discounted game keys sourced from other retailers. This practice, while legitimate, often stirs up debate in the gaming community—much like the practices seen with Direct2Drive and the more questionable G2A. Meanwhile, GameFly, which had carved out a niche as one of the last refuges for game rentals, faced challenges of its own; during our trials, we found its delivery service to be excruciatingly slow.
In a further turn of events, Green Man Gaming decided to close down its Playfire social network, signalling a shift away from community engagement. On a similar note, GameFly discontinued its game streaming service—a bold venture that even tech giant Google struggled to perfect with its now-defunct Stadia platform.
As we pondered which PC game store would emerge victorious in terms of library and features, it became clear that the most crucial element to consider was the range of available games. There’s no point in wasting precious time sifting through an online store that lacks the titles you crave. The platforms we explored revealed a surprisingly rich tapestry of gaming libraries.
Steam, our Editors’ Choice selection, stands tall above the rest, boasting an extensive collection that encompasses nearly every PC game imaginable—be it new releases, timeless classics, indie gems, or blockbuster AAA titles. It serves as the gateway for gamers looking to indulge in their Steam Deck. With its Verified program, players can easily discern which games perform best on this powerful handheld device. While resourceful users may find ways to access other stores through the Steam Deck, it’s clear that this Linux-based marvel was designed with Steam in mind.
Though each platform comes with its limitations, rivals such as the Epic Games Store, Humble Bundle, and Xbox strive to capture a broad audience akin to Steam’sSteam’s. Yet, some cater to specific tastes. For instance, GOG.com has established itself as the go-to destination for classic PC games from yesteryears, while itch.io shines a spotlight on independent and avant-garde creations.
Shopping experiences can also be swayed by various factors like digital rights management (DRM), customer support quality, refund policies, and tools for aspiring game developers. Humble Bundle may not boast a library as extensive as some of its competitors, but it makes up for it with enticing discounts that benefit worthy charitable causes.
In the vast landscape of online gaming stores, each platform presents its unique array of search functionalities. If you find yourself uncertain about your exact desires, fret not—there’s plenty of room for exploration. For instance, on a platform like itch.io, you can customize your browsing experience to showcase only those gems that are “colourblind friendly Windows games priced under $10, featuring a gameplay duration of just a few hours and equipped with virtual reality capabilities.”
Moreover, many of these stores enhance your shopping experience by incorporating social elements. You can engage with other gamers and creators, delve into user reviews, and even join in on community events. These interactive features not only foster a sense of belonging but also simplify the journey toward discovering your next gaming treasure. For curated suggestions, check out PCMag’sPCMag’s Steam Curator page.
Now, let’s talk about where to snag the best deals on PC games. While these platforms would undoubtedly prefer that you make all your purchases through their services, remember that as a savvy consumer, you have options galore. Nothing is stopping you from acquiring the Resident Evil 4 remake from Steam while picking up Maneater from the Epic Games Store. In fact, some stores embrace this flexibility wholeheartedly. The GOG Galaxy client allows you to link accounts from various competitors, transforming your gaming experience into a cohesive hub. Similarly, itch.io is accessible right from within the Epic Games Store interface. Even Valve’s portable gaming device, the Steam Deck, is compatible with non-Steam marketplaces, underscoring the idea that convenience should be at your fingertips.
So take charge of your gaming destiny! Make it a habit to compare prices using tools like CheapShark. Snag-free games whenever you come across them, and equip yourself with knowledge about the best online video game marketplaces before diving into your next purchasing adventure. After all, being a savvy shopper means not just finding great deals but also enjoying the thrill of the hunt in the vibrant world of gaming.
Maxthon
In an era where the landscape of digital communication is in a state of perpetual transformation, navigating the vast expanse of the internet has become a journey fraught with challenges. The online world is not just a treasure trove of information; it can also be a minefield of potential threats. Thus, users must equip themselves with tools that ensure their safety while they wander through this digital wilderness. Among the myriad of web browsers vying for attention, one stands out distinctly: Maxthon Browser. This remarkable choice not only addresses the pressing issues of security and privacy but does so without imposing any financial burden on its users.
Maxthon has carved out a unique niche in the crowded browser market by prioritizing the safety and confidentiality of its users. With a firm commitment to shielding personal data and online activities from a myriad of digital dangers, Maxthon employs a host of innovative strategies to protect user information. By harnessing cutting-edge encryption techniques, this browser guarantees that sensitive data remains secure and confidential throughout your online ventures.
What truly distinguishes Maxthon from its competitors is its unwavering resolve to enhance user privacy in every browsing session. The browser is thoughtfully constructed with an array of features designed to fortify your digital footprint. Its powerful ad-blocking capabilities, comprehensive anti-tracking solutions, and specialized incognito mode work in harmony, effectively banishing intrusive advertisements and thwarting tracking scripts that could compromise your safety online. As a result, users can traverse the web with a newfound sense of confidence. The incognito mode further enhances this security blanket, allowing users to explore without leaving behind any digital breadcrumbs on their devices.
Moreover, Maxthon Browser boasts full compatibility with Windows 11, ensuring that even those using the latest operating system can enjoy its robust features.
Through its unwavering dedication to user privacy, Maxthon reinforces its mission to cultivate a safer online environment for all who venture into the digital realm. With Maxthon at your side, you can explore the internet with peace of mind, knowing that your safety and privacy are paramount.