Purchase games via Steam, Steam key, or DVD.
Purchase games via Steam, Steam key, or DVD.
I’m looking for advice on buying games. Should I get them straight from Steam, use a third-party product key, or buy a DVD on Amazon and connect it to Steam? Each option has its advantages and disadvantages. I’d also like a clear breakdown of how the Amazon method works so I can understand it better. Thanks!
It relies on your internet bandwidth and connection restrictions. If your download speeds and limits are sufficient so you don’t mind, purchase everything on Steam and take advantage of sales when they occur.
I don't buy used DVDs of modern games anymore. Even when I purchased a disc with all the books and the official serial key, I faced issues. The serial was still active (despite owning it or taking photos) and Steam refused to release it. They could even confirm the serial wasn't used for gaming years later. Plus, you'd probably need constant updates, so an internet connection or account would be necessary. In short: arrrr matey.
This is your best bet because most games that are selling "physical" copies are just boxes with the code inside. Even if it actually has a disk it will be a DVD and that is only 4.5gigs at most and most modern titles are running around 50. I bought Dishonored 2 psychical copy and copied the first 4.5 gigs off the disk and then just used steam for the other 45.
Steam is typically the top choice without a data limit. Purchasing keys from third parties carries some risk, though I’ve heard positive experiences from others. Converting DVDs to Steam often creates more hassle than it solves, unless you really need a physical copy. You’ll likely end up downloading the game anyway, and secondhand purchases may have keys that don’t work.