A Complete Guide on Sharing Steam Games with Family
Key Notes
- Steam Families combines game sharing and family management features.
- Family libraries allow up to six members to share games easily.
- Adult members can manage family members and remove them if needed.
Unlocking the Power of Steam Families for Game Sharing
Steam Families streamlines game sharing among family members and friends. Learn how to set this up effectively.
Understanding Steam Families
Valve has recently introduced Steam Families, a feature that brings together Steam Family Sharing and Steam Family View into one streamlined experience. This enables users to create a streamlined household group of up to six members for sharing games and implementing content controls.
Each family member can access one another’s Steam library, allowing for an easy and universal gaming experience, reminiscent of the previous Family Sharing system. Notably, only one person can play a shared game at one time unless additional copies are purchased.
An exciting feature is the ability for family members to play games from each other’s libraries, even if someone else is playing a different title simultaneously. Currently, this feature is in beta, and accessing it requires switching to the beta version of the Steam client.
Steps to Create a Steam Family
The first step in setting up your Steam Family is for all interested members to join the Steam beta.
Step 1: Join the Steam Beta
To do this, navigate to Steam -> Settings -> Interface and select Steam Beta Update. Confirm and restart the client to install the beta version.
Step 2: Access Family Management Settings
Click your username in the top right corner, go to Account details, select Family Management, and click Create a Family.
Step 3: Naming Your Family
Enter a name for the Steam Family and select Create. This name can be modified later if needed.
Step 4: Invite Your Family Members
Click Invite a Member and search for the friend or family member you wish to add. Designate them as either an adult or child.
Step 5: Confirm the Invitation
After selecting the member type, confirm the invitation. Repeat for additional family members, up to four more.
Joining a Steam Family grants access to all shared games, appearing as a new subsection in your games list.
How to Remove Members from Steam Families
As an adult in a Steam Family, you can remove any member at any time, including other adults or children. Child members, however, cannot remove others or leave the family without adult intervention.
Step 1: Navigate to Family Management
In Account details, go to Family Management to view current family members.
Step 2: Remove the Family Member
Click the downward arrows beside the member’s name, select Remove Member, and confirm your choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can be in a Steam Family?
Steam Families can consist of up to six members, whether they are family or friends. Note that a cooldown period of one year applies if you exit a family before you can join a new one.
What games can be shared in Steam Families?
Any game permitted by its developer for Family Sharing can be shared. However, free-to-play games or those needing extra accounts or subscriptions are not eligible for sharing.
Do I need to be online to play a shared game?
No, you can enjoy games from your Family Library offline, provided that Family Sharing supports the game.
Summary
Steam Families makes it easier than ever to share games within your household. By following the instructions above, you can set up your family group, manage members, and enjoy a shared gaming experience.
Conclusion
Setting up a Steam Family is an excellent way to ensure everyone can enjoy access to a wide array of games. By taking advantage of the features introduced, you can maximize your family’s gaming experience while maintaining oversight and control over game access.
Frequently Asked Questions