They both have different companies behind them, but what really sets them apart?
The short answer is DRMbut theres more to it than just that.
What’s the General Difference Between Steam and GOG?
For those who dont know, both Steam and GOG Galaxy are game launchers.
Essentially, they are applications for organizing games on your machine.
Steam is owned by Valve Corporation.
Meanwhile, CD Projekt owns GOG (and its game launcher, GOG Galaxy).
The unique visions and goals of these companies shape the direction of each game launcher and store.
For example, GOG has a focus on providing DRM-free games.
DRM Policies and User Restrictions
The number one selling point for GOG is its DRM-free policy.
GOG doesnt believe in that.
you might also access to your GOG account on however many computers you want and download your purchased game.
In contrast, Steam allows only one game session per account.
Additionally, the only way to download a Steam game is through Steams desktop client.
Both sides have good arguments, and you should choose where to buy your games based on your preference.
Game Catalog and Exclusives
Due to Steams popularity, it features a larger library than GOG.
Statista reports that Steam has about 70,000 games available in the store, while GOG has only about 9,000.
But youre more likely to get newer releases on Steam before they get to GOG.
Remember, though, that there are also many low-quality titles.
In turn, GOG specializes in bringing back old games for modern machines.
There is one aspect of Steams game library that GOG cant compete against: virtual reality.
Steam has a dedicated VR section where you’re able to get all the most popular VR games.
It even has a special Steam app called SteamVR that allows you to access VR titles on supported headsets.
It still pays strong homage to its original look, which can sometimes make it unintuitive to use.
GOG Galaxy is newer, debuting as a desktop client in 2014.
Its more lightweight than Steam and, therefore, easier to navigate.
On the flip side, adding a game you didnt buy on Steam is easier.
Many people agree that playing games is much more interesting with other people.
Thats why both GOG and Steam allow you to add friends.
you’re free to earn and show off achievements on both platforms.
Each game launcher also has provisions for user-awarded ratings and reviews.
However, Steam has a larger user base and all the benefits that come with it.
In short, it has the most robust game forum on the internet.
you might also easily buy games as gifts and send the key or the game itself to a friend.
These are some of the reasons why some argue thatall gamers should use Steam.
Customer Support Effectiveness and Refund Policies
The final facet separating these two platforms is how they treat distressed customers.
Were not saying any of these are better than the other, but they have different approachesespecially refund policies.
According to MUO’s tests, both GOG and Steam have similar ticket response times.
Many other users also have mostly positive remarks about how the customer support team deals with their issues.
Regarding refunds, Steam has a famous two-hour/14-day approach.
Steam has a fast refund process, which seems automated if you meet the requirements.
GOGs refund process is similar.
However, it takes a longer time for your money to return.
In that case, you should allow up to 30 days.
GOGs slower refund process might be due to manual approvals.
All in all, theres no reason to stick to only one of these.
They seem to be designed to work interchangeably, and many gamers, including me, use both.
you might integrate your Steam account into GOG Galaxy and launch all your Steam games there.
