Valve has announced that from the 5th September 2012, their Steam games network will start to offer non-gaming software to purchase and download to its users.
Software offered via the Steam software network would also include the Steamworks features, providing automatic updates and the ability for users to save software data on to the Steam Cloud.
Expanding Beyond Gaming
Valve’s decision to expand Steam’s offerings beyond gaming is a significant move that reflects the evolving needs and interests of its user base. The inclusion of non-gaming software on Steam is not just a response to user demand but also a strategic effort to diversify the platform’s utility. By integrating software that ranges from creativity tools to productivity applications, Steam is positioning itself as a comprehensive digital distribution service.
Software titles arriving on Steam range from creativity to productivity, and developers will be welcome to submit Software titles via Steam Greenlight. This initiative allows developers to propose and promote their software, giving the community a voice in what gets added to the platform. This democratized approach to content curation ensures that the software available on Steam is both relevant and high-quality.
Valve business development representative Mark Richardson explained in a statement:
“The 40 million gamers frequenting Steam are interested in more than playing games,”-“They have told us they would like to have more of their software on Steam, so this expansion is in response to those customer requests.”
Benefits of Steamworks Integration
One of the standout features of this expansion is the integration of Steamworks features with non-gaming software. Steamworks is a suite of tools and services that help developers build their products and reach a wide audience. For users, this means several benefits:
1. Automatic Updates: Just like with games, software on Steam will receive automatic updates. This ensures that users always have the latest version without having to manually check for updates.
2. Steam Cloud: The ability to save software data to the Steam Cloud is a game-changer. Users can access their software settings and data from any device, making it easier to switch between different computers or recover data in case of hardware failure.
3. Community Features: Steam’s community features, such as forums, user reviews, and workshops, will also be available for non-gaming software. This creates a vibrant ecosystem where users can share tips, troubleshoot issues, and collaborate on projects.
Examples of Software on Steam
To give you an idea of what to expect, here are some examples of the types of software that could be available on Steam:
– Creativity Tools: Software like graphic design programs, video editing suites, and music production tools can find a home on Steam. Imagine having access to Adobe Photoshop or FL Studio directly through your Steam account.
– Productivity Applications: Office suites, project management tools, and note-taking apps are also likely candidates. This could include software like Microsoft Office, Trello, or Evernote.
– Educational Software: With the rise of e-learning, educational software and tools for students and teachers could also be featured. This might include language learning apps, coding tutorials, and more.
The integration of non-gaming software into Steam is a forward-thinking move that leverages the platform’s existing infrastructure and user base. It opens up new possibilities for both users and developers, making Steam a one-stop-shop for digital content.
Source: ZDNet
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