Steam players outraged as new game-sharing feature could lead to bans for cheating family members

Family game night vs. Steam Families

Remember those times you cheated during family game night? Well, on Steam, it could cost you more than just bragging rights. The new game-sharing feature, Steam Families, allows users to share games with each other, but with a catch that has players fuming.

How Steam Families works

Steam Families lets a group of people share games, but warns users to be cautious about who they team up with. Once you join a family group, you can play any game owned by someone in the group. However, if only one person owns a game, only one person can play it at a time.

Ban hammer for cheaters

Steam's strict policy states that if someone in your family group gets banned for cheating in a game, you will also be banned from that game. This has sparked complaints, but Steam defends the rule, emphasizing that the feature is intended for close family members.

Limitations and consequences

Joining a Steam Family locks you in for a year, preventing you from joining another group. Additionally, if someone leaves the group, their slot remains empty for at least a year. The feature is designed for stable family units, so using it for friends may come with risks.

Gen Alpha meets sibling sabotage

Now even the younger generation, Gen Alpha, can relate to the frustration of a sibling ruining their game experience. The new feature brings a whole new level of accountability to gaming.

Looking for more gaming options?

If you're into PC gaming, don't miss out on the free games available on the Epic Games Store for a different gaming experience.