Steam is one of the most popular digital distribution platforms for PC gamers, offering a vast library of games, user-friendly features, and a vibrant gaming community. One of the most frequently asked questions by users is: “Can you gameshare on Steam?” The short answer is yes, but it comes with specific limitations and rules.
Yes, you can game share on Steam using a feature called Family Library Sharing. It lets you share your game library with close friends or family. They can play your games on their own computer and account. But not all games can be shared, and only one person can play at a time.
This article will give you a detailed, step-by-step guide to game sharing on Steam through Steam Family Sharing, helping you understand how it works, what you can share, and what restrictions apply.
What is Gamesharing on Steam?
Gamesharing on Steam refers to the practice of allowing another user to access and play games from your Steam library. While traditional gamesharing (like on consoles) isn’t supported exactly the same way on Steam, Steam Family Sharing is Valve’s official feature that allows users to share their libraries with trusted friends or family members.
With Family Sharing, you can:
- Share your entire Steam library with up to 5 other accounts.
- Authorize up to 10 different devices.
- Let others play your games without buying them—as long as they’re not playing at the same time as you.
How Does Steam Family Sharing Work?
Steam Family Sharing allows users to share their game libraries while maintaining individual save files, achievements, and progress. However, there are some key mechanics and limitations to understand.
Key Features:
- Only one user can access the library at a time.
- Shared libraries can be accessed by other users on authorized devices.
- DLC can also be shared if the base game is shared and installed.
- Not all games are shareable due to licensing restrictions (e.g., games requiring third-party keys).
Also read: What Is The Oldest GTA V Depot On Steam?
How to Set Up Steam Family Sharing: Step-by-Step?
Here’s a step-by-step guide to enable Steam Family Sharing:
Step 1: Enable Steam Guard
You must first ensure Steam Guard is enabled on your account.
- Open Steam and go to the Steam Menu > Settings > Account.
- Click on Manage Steam Guard Account Security.
- Enable Steam Guard via email or mobile authenticator.
Step 2: Authorize a Computer
You’ll need to log in to your Steam account on the computer you want to authorize for sharing.
- Log in to your Steam account on the target device.
- Go to Steam Menu > Settings > Family.
- Under Family Library Sharing, check the box next to “Authorize Library Sharing on this computer.”
- Select the account(s) on that device you wish to authorize.
Step 3: Log Out and Let the Other User Log In
After setting everything up, log out of your Steam account and allow the other person to log into theirs on the same machine. They should now be able to see your library and play games that are available for sharing.
Who Can Use Family Sharing?
Steam Family Sharing is ideal for:
- Families with multiple gamers using the same computer.
- Close friends who want to share large libraries.
- Gamers with secondary accounts.
However, Valve strongly recommends that users only share their libraries with people they trust. Misuse of the feature can result in revocation of the sharing privileges or even a ban.
What Can and Can’t Be Shared?
✅ You Can Share:
- Most games from your Steam library.
- Downloadable Content (DLC) if the recipient owns the base game.
- Achievements, save progress, and settings (separately for each user).
❌ You Can’t Share:
- Games that require third-party accounts or keys (e.g., Ubisoft’s Uplay, EA Origin).
- Subscription-based services or memberships.
- Certain region-restricted titles.
- Online multiplayer access if the game is designed for single-account use.
Limitations and Important Rules:
While Steam Family Sharing is a powerful tool, it comes with some important restrictions:
1. One User at a Time
Only one person can access a shared library at any given time. If the owner starts playing a game, any other user playing from their library will get a notification and a few minutes to save and exit.
2. Game Ownership is Not Transferred
The person you share your library with cannot keep your games. If you revoke access or stop sharing, the games will disappear from their library.
3. Internet Required
You must be online to initiate sharing and play shared games. Offline play may not work reliably for shared titles.
4. Risk of VAC Ban
If someone you share your library with cheats in a VAC-protected game, your account could get permanently banned. Again, only share with people you trust.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I play my games while someone else uses my library?
No. If someone else is playing a game from your library, you won’t be able to launch any of your games without interrupting their session.
Can multiple people use my Steam library at the same time?
Only one person can access the library at a time. However, if a game is owned by both users, both can play it simultaneously from their respective libraries.
Is there a way to bypass the “one user at a time” rule?
Not through legal or supported means. Valve enforces this to prevent abuse of the system.
Can I share individual games instead of the whole library?
No. Steam only allows you to share the entire library, not individual games.
Is Steam Gamesharing Worth It?
Steam gamesharing via Family Sharing is a convenient and cost-effective way to share your library with close friends and family. It’s especially useful in households with multiple gamers or among friends who want to try out a game before buying it themselves.
However, due to limitations such as one-user-at-a-time access and non-shareable content, it’s not a perfect solution. Still, when used properly, it adds significant value to the Steam ecosystem.
Final Thoughts:
So, can you gameshare on Steam? Yes, you can—with Steam Family Sharing. It’s a safe and flexible feature when used with people you trust. Just remember to be aware of the limitations, security risks, and terms of service.
If you’re looking to get more from your Steam library or want to introduce someone to a game you love, gamesharing is a great option. Set it up properly, share responsibly, and enjoy gaming together!