For gamers, a reliable game client is more than just a digital storefront – it's a gateway to an extensive gaming experience. Whether you're seeking unique features, loyalty programs, or access to exclusive games, there are several top-tier alternatives that deserve a closer look. We’ll explore five excellent game clients that rival the giants, providing great features and experiences for every type of gamer.
1. Steam: The Industry Giant
Steam, created by Valve Corporation, is the longest-running and most popular digital distribution platform for PC gaming. Known for its extensive library, frequent sales, and a massive user community, Steam has set the standard for modern game clients.
Key Features of Steam:
- Vast Game Library: Steam offers more than 50,000 games, including AAA titles, indie games, and early-access options.
- Community Features: The platform supports forums, in-game chat, group pages, and community creations through the Steam Workshop.
- Sales and Discounts: Steam is famous for its seasonal sales, like the Steam Summer and Winter Sales, which offer significant discounts.
- Achievements and Progress Tracking: Players can earn achievements, compare stats with friends, and showcase their collections.
- Compatibility: Steam works on Windows, macOS, and Linux, making it versatile across different operating systems.
Steam’s legacy of user-first policies and community support has made it the go-to platform for gamers worldwide. However, its popularity also means competition is fierce. Let’s look at some alternative game clients that offer unique experiences.
2. Epic Games Store: Exclusive Games and Freebies
The Epic Games Store (EGS) launched in 2018 and quickly gained attention by offering free games every week. Known for its timed exclusives, Epic has drawn in players seeking both free content and a more curated selection of high-quality games.
Key Features of Epic Games Store:
- Free Games Program: EGS gives away one or more free games each week, permanently adding them to users’ libraries.
- Exclusive Titles: Epic has secured exclusivity deals with major games like Fortnite, Hades, Borderlands 3, and more.
- Developer-Friendly Revenue Split: Epic offers developers 88% of the revenue (compared to 70% on Steam), encouraging more studios to publish on the platform.
- Cloud Saves and Social Features: Although not as robust as Steam’s, EGS provides cloud saves and a basic friend system.
- Regular Discounts: Epic Store has Mega Sales with discounts, often offering additional coupons for bigger savings.
While EGS is still growing in terms of features, it’s managed to carve out a niche for players looking for exclusives and frequent free games. The store is constantly adding new functionality, making it a strong competitor in the digital gaming space.
3. GOG Galaxy: DRM-Free and Unified Libraries
GOG (Good Old Games), owned by CD Projekt Red, began as a platform for classic games but has since grown into a modern game client. GOG Galaxy 2.0 is a game launcher that combines all your games from various platforms into one place, while its DRM-free policy lets players fully own their purchases.
Key Features of GOG Galaxy:
- DRM-Free Library: GOG focuses on providing DRM-free games, which means you truly own what you buy and can even play offline.
- Galaxy 2.0 Unified Library: GOG Galaxy 2.0 lets users connect to multiple clients (like Steam, Epic, and more) so they can launch all games from one place.
- Classic Games and New Releases: GOG offers a curated library of classic games, often optimized for modern systems, alongside popular new releases.
- Cross-Platform Cloud Saves: GOG offers cloud saves and syncs achievements across platforms.
- Fair Refund Policy: GOG allows a 30-day refund window, a more lenient approach than most clients.
GOG Galaxy 2.0 stands out for those who prefer DRM-free gaming and want a single launcher for all their games. Its user-friendly, nostalgic vibe also makes it a favorite among older gamers.
4. Ubisoft Connect: A Loyalty-Driven Platform
Ubisoft Connect (formerly Uplay) is Ubisoft’s digital game client, exclusively offering games from the Ubisoft catalog. Known for popular franchises like Assassin’s Creed, Far Cry, and Tom Clancy’s series, Ubisoft Connect brings a distinct experience with a focus on loyalty and rewards.
Key Features of Ubisoft Connect:
- In-Game Rewards Program: Players earn “Units” for completing in-game challenges, which can be redeemed for exclusive content like skins, weapons, or discounts.
- Cross-Platform Play and Cloud Saves: Ubisoft Connect supports cross-platform progression and cloud saves, allowing players to continue games on multiple devices.
- Social Features and Friends List: Players can view game stats, send friend requests, and join multiplayer games with ease.
- Game-Specific Customization: Ubisoft Connect includes game-specific customization options and updates for new features.
- Seasonal Events and Discounts: Frequent sales, seasonal events, and exclusive game content make it an appealing choice for fans of Ubisoft’s franchises.
Ubisoft Connect is a must-have for fans of Ubisoft titles and offers robust loyalty rewards that encourage continued engagement with their games.
5. Battle.net: The Blizzard Hub
Battle.net is Blizzard Entertainment’s exclusive client for Blizzard and Activision games. First launched in 1996, Battle.net is one of the oldest game clients and has evolved to meet the demands of modern gamers.
Key Features of Battle.net:
- Exclusive Access to Blizzard and Activision Games: The only place to play World of Warcraft, Overwatch, Diablo, Hearthstone, StarCraft, and select Call of Duty titles.
- Smooth Multiplayer Integration: Battle.net offers seamless multiplayer support, optimized for Blizzard games.
- Social Features and Voice Chat: Players can chat, join groups, and use integrated voice chat to enhance cooperative play.
- Updates and Patch Management: Battle.net provides a streamlined experience for downloading updates and patches, especially important for live-service games.
- Exclusive Beta Access and Event Invitations: Blizzard often offers exclusive beta access to Battle.net users, particularly for high-profile game launches.
For fans of Blizzard’s iconic titles, Battle.net is indispensable. Its community focus and high-quality servers make it ideal for multiplayer gaming, especially in MMORPGs and competitive games.