Valve has introduced the exciting new Steam Families feature to the gaming community, marking its transition from beta testing to mainstream availability. This innovative feature allows parents to share games with their families, set up parental controls for their children, and approve their kids’ requests to purchase games on Steam.
Let’s delve into some key aspects of the Steam Families feature:
- Multiple Simultaneous Gaming: Unlike its predecessor, Steam Families enables multiple family members to play games from a shared library simultaneously. This means that if you’re engrossed in Balatro and your partner, who is a part of your Steam Family, wants to dive into Arranger, both of you can enjoy your respective games at the same time. However, if your partner wishes to play Balatro while you’re already immersed in it, a separate copy would need to be purchased.
- Offline Gaming Support: With Steam Families, shared games can also be played offline, providing flexibility and convenience to family members.
- Membership and Restrictions: Valve specifies that Steam Families are meant for immediate family members and can include up to six close relatives. Each family member within the Steam Family will have their individual save games and achievements. Adults have the option to leave a Steam Family at their discretion, but should they choose to do so, they must wait a year before starting or joining a new Family. Conversely, children can only be removed from a Steam Family by an adult or with assistance from Steam support.
- Transition from Family Sharing to Steam Families: Valve has hinted at retiring the old Family Sharing feature in the future, encouraging users to switch to Steam Families instead.
In addition to the new Steam Families feature, the latest Steam client update boasts several enhancements, including a revamped screenshots manager. To embark on the Steam Families journey, simply update your Steam client and start enjoying the benefits of seamless and collaborative gaming within your family.
Overall, Steam Families paves the way for a more interactive and inclusive gaming experience, bridging the gap between family members through shared gameplay. Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity to connect and play together with your loved ones on Steam. Update your client today and embark on a gaming adventure like never before.
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