Difference between revisions of "Store:Steam"
(Modified DRM section, there are a whole bunch of games that do not require steam to be running.) |
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'''Key points''' | '''Key points''' | ||
| − | {{ii}} Digital distribution platform launched by [[Wikipedia:Valve_Corporation|Valve Corporation]] in 2003 which supports [[Windows]], [[Mac OS| | + | {{ii}} Digital distribution platform launched by [[Wikipedia:Valve_Corporation|Valve Corporation]] in 2003 which supports [[Windows]], [[Mac OS|OS X]] and [[Linux]]. |
{{ii}} [[Digital rights management (DRM)|DRM]]: Steam client is required to play most games. Some games have extra DRM; refer to [[The Big List of 3rd Party DRM on Steam]]. | {{ii}} [[Digital rights management (DRM)|DRM]]: Steam client is required to play most games. Some games have extra DRM; refer to [[The Big List of 3rd Party DRM on Steam]]. | ||
{{ii}} Some games sold through retail and other [[:Category:Digital Distribution|digital distribution]] services activate on Steam; see [https://support.steampowered.com/kb_article.php?ref=7480-wusf-3601#answer Retail / Digital CD Keys]. | {{ii}} Some games sold through retail and other [[:Category:Digital Distribution|digital distribution]] services activate on Steam; see [https://support.steampowered.com/kb_article.php?ref=7480-wusf-3601#answer Retail / Digital CD Keys]. | ||
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{{mm}} [http://steamdb.info/ SteamDB] - all information about games, sales, and even not yet released games. Updates instantaneously. | {{mm}} [http://steamdb.info/ SteamDB] - all information about games, sales, and even not yet released games. Updates instantaneously. | ||
| − | == Big Picture == | + | ==Big Picture== |
{{ii}} See [[PC gaming on a TV and couch]] for general setup information. | {{ii}} See [[PC gaming on a TV and couch]] for general setup information. | ||
{{++}} Big Picture Mode is a new interface which allows using Steam with a controller. | {{++}} Big Picture Mode is a new interface which allows using Steam with a controller. | ||
| − | {{ii}} Big Picture Mode requires Windows Vista or newer or | + | {{ii}} Big Picture Mode requires Windows Vista or newer or OS X 10.7 (Lion) or newer; earlier versions are not supported. |
{{Fixbox|1= | {{Fixbox|1= | ||
{{fixbox/fix|Launch Big Picture Mode}} | {{fixbox/fix|Launch Big Picture Mode}} | ||
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}} | }} | ||
| − | === Taskbar showing on top === | + | ===Taskbar showing on top=== |
{{--}} This is caused by the incompatibility with DPI scaling in Windows. | {{--}} This is caused by the incompatibility with DPI scaling in Windows. | ||
{{Fixbox|1= | {{Fixbox|1= | ||
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}} | }} | ||
| − | ==== Speed up Big Picture web browser ==== | + | ====Speed up Big Picture web browser==== |
{{ii}} Steam Big Picture web browser can be slow. | {{ii}} Steam Big Picture web browser can be slow. | ||
{{Fixbox|1= | {{Fixbox|1= | ||
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}} | }} | ||
| − | ==== Adjust font size DPI ==== | + | ====Adjust font size DPI==== |
{{ii}} Steam does not always respect the Windows [[Wikipedia:Dots_per_inch|dpi]] settings. This hack adjusts Steam's DPI. | {{ii}} Steam does not always respect the Windows [[Wikipedia:Dots_per_inch|dpi]] settings. This hack adjusts Steam's DPI. | ||
{{ii}} Appears to work if the Windows DPI settings are also adjusted above 100% size. | {{ii}} Appears to work if the Windows DPI settings are also adjusted above 100% size. | ||
{{Fixbox|1= | {{Fixbox|1= | ||
| − | {{fixbox/fix|Set LogPixels key|ref=<ref>[http://forums. | + | {{fixbox/fix|Set LogPixels key|ref=<ref>[http://forums.steampowered.com/forums/showthread.php?t=2095661 Steam Font Size Too Small - Steam Users' Forums]</ref>}} |
# Open the [[Registry Editor]]: | # Open the [[Registry Editor]]: | ||
#* Vista and newer: open the Start screen/Start menu, type <code>regedit</code>, press Enter. | #* Vista and newer: open the Start screen/Start menu, type <code>regedit</code>, press Enter. | ||
| − | #* Windows XP: press | + | #* Windows XP: press {{key|Win|R}}, type <code>regedit</code>, press Enter. |
# Go to <code>HKEY_USERS\.DEFAULT\Software\Classes\Steam</code> | # Go to <code>HKEY_USERS\.DEFAULT\Software\Classes\Steam</code> | ||
# Add <code>LogPixels</code> as a DWORD registry key and set to 120 decimal (120 DPI) to increase DPI settings. | # Add <code>LogPixels</code> as a DWORD registry key and set to 120 decimal (120 DPI) to increase DPI settings. | ||
}} | }} | ||
| − | == Family Sharing == | + | ==Family Sharing== |
{{ii}} [http://store.steampowered.com/sharing/ Steam Family Sharing] is a new feature (currently in beta) that allows Steam users to share games. | {{ii}} [http://store.steampowered.com/sharing/ Steam Family Sharing] is a new feature (currently in beta) that allows Steam users to share games. | ||
{{++}} Each player gets their own achievements, saves, etc. | {{++}} Each player gets their own achievements, saves, etc. | ||
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{{--}} Some games are not available for sharing, e.g. those with third-party DRM; refer to [[The Big List of 3rd Party DRM on Steam]] for details. | {{--}} Some games are not available for sharing, e.g. those with third-party DRM; refer to [[The Big List of 3rd Party DRM on Steam]] for details. | ||
| − | == Steam Trading Cards == | + | ==Steam Trading Cards== |
Steam Trading Cards were added on May 15, 2013 in a closed beta. After playing certain games for a random amount of time, you'll earn a card. You can only earn up to half the cards a game has to offer, afterwards you'll be forced to trade or purchase cards in order to earn the full set. Once you have the full set you can craft them into a badge. This badge will also get you a random coupon for an item in the Steam store, as well as an emoticon for chat. For supported games, see [http://store.steampowered.com/search/?category2=29 Games with Steam Trading Cards support]. | Steam Trading Cards were added on May 15, 2013 in a closed beta. After playing certain games for a random amount of time, you'll earn a card. You can only earn up to half the cards a game has to offer, afterwards you'll be forced to trade or purchase cards in order to earn the full set. Once you have the full set you can craft them into a badge. This badge will also get you a random coupon for an item in the Steam store, as well as an emoticon for chat. For supported games, see [http://store.steampowered.com/search/?category2=29 Games with Steam Trading Cards support]. | ||
| − | == Other tips == | + | ==Other tips== |
| − | === Resume Download Whilst Playing Game === | + | ===Resume Download Whilst Playing Game=== |
Most '''Steam''' games will pause all downloads in progress, even if the game running is single player and has no need to access the internet bandwidth. | Most '''Steam''' games will pause all downloads in progress, even if the game running is single player and has no need to access the internet bandwidth. | ||
This can be fixed by checking "Allow Steam to download other updates while this game is running" in the properties of a game before starting it. | This can be fixed by checking "Allow Steam to download other updates while this game is running" in the properties of a game before starting it. | ||
| − | === Disable Advertising Popups === | + | ===Disable Advertising Popups=== |
By default, '''Steam''' will periodically display popups of new games and announcements. This can be disabled by going to <code>View > Settings > Interface > Notify me about additions</code>. | By default, '''Steam''' will periodically display popups of new games and announcements. This can be disabled by going to <code>View > Settings > Interface > Notify me about additions</code>. | ||
| − | === Disable Automatic Game Updates === | + | ===Disable Automatic Game Updates=== |
Steam automatically updates games when new patches are released by default. It may be useful to disable this (only possible on an individual game basis). This may also stop Steam interfering with modifications to game and configuration files. | Steam automatically updates games when new patches are released by default. It may be useful to disable this (only possible on an individual game basis). This may also stop Steam interfering with modifications to game and configuration files. | ||
From the game library, right click on the game title in the list, select "Properties", "Updates", and switch to "Do not automatically keep this game up to date". | From the game library, right click on the game title in the list, select "Properties", "Updates", and switch to "Do not automatically keep this game up to date". | ||
| − | === Steam Skins === | + | ===Steam Skins=== |
Steam has the option to install other skins. By far the most popular skin and most recommended skin is [http://forums.steampowered.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1914848 PixelVision]. Installation requires installing the skin to the correct directory, sometimes installing a font and changing a setting within Steam. | Steam has the option to install other skins. By far the most popular skin and most recommended skin is [http://forums.steampowered.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1914848 PixelVision]. Installation requires installing the skin to the correct directory, sometimes installing a font and changing a setting within Steam. | ||
[[Image:PixelVision_preview.png|300px|none|thumb|PixelVision skin in action.]] | [[Image:PixelVision_preview.png|300px|none|thumb|PixelVision skin in action.]] | ||
| − | === Optimizing Steam's GCF Files and Batch Maintenance === | + | ===Optimizing Steam's GCF Files and Batch Maintenance=== |
{{ii}} No longer valid as after conversion to ACF file format in 2012. | {{ii}} No longer valid as after conversion to ACF file format in 2012. | ||
Steam's Game Properties offers an interface to validate and physically and internally de-fragment the game's GCF files if it has them, however Steam itself uses 2 GCF files but does not provide a way to do this, and there is a lot of time, prompting, and UI lockout between tasks. GCFScape has some batch mode utilities to handle this. | Steam's Game Properties offers an interface to validate and physically and internally de-fragment the game's GCF files if it has them, however Steam itself uses 2 GCF files but does not provide a way to do this, and there is a lot of time, prompting, and UI lockout between tasks. GCFScape has some batch mode utilities to handle this. | ||
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GCFScape also provides batch validation, but does not have the repair facility that Steam has when it detects a corrupted file. Batch validation as an overnight task prior to backing up your files is a great idea. If it finds a problem, have Steam do a validation and repair on it. | GCFScape also provides batch validation, but does not have the repair facility that Steam has when it detects a corrupted file. Batch validation as an overnight task prior to backing up your files is a great idea. If it finds a problem, have Steam do a validation and repair on it. | ||
| − | === Change Game Library Backgrounds === | + | ===Change Game Library Backgrounds=== |
{{Fixbox|1= | {{Fixbox|1= | ||
{{Fixbox/fix|Customize your library backgrounds|ref=<ref>[http://forums.steampowered.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1925247 How to Upload / Use custom images / screenshots in the Library background! - Steam Users' Forums]</ref>}} | {{Fixbox/fix|Customize your library backgrounds|ref=<ref>[http://forums.steampowered.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1925247 How to Upload / Use custom images / screenshots in the Library background! - Steam Users' Forums]</ref>}} | ||
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{{++}}Adds Pricing History, DRM Warnings, Wishlist Image Fixes, Custom Profile Backgrounds, and more. | {{++}}Adds Pricing History, DRM Warnings, Wishlist Image Fixes, Custom Profile Backgrounds, and more. | ||
| − | == Windows == | + | ==Windows== |
| − | === Unable to log in === | + | ===Unable to log in=== |
{{fixbox|1= | {{fixbox|1= | ||
{{fixbox/fix|temporarily launch Steam with the -tcp suffix on Windows 7}} | {{fixbox/fix|temporarily launch Steam with the -tcp suffix on Windows 7}} | ||
| − | #Press the key-combo | + | #Press the key-combo {{key|Win|R}} to open Run |
#Enter the directory to Steam.exe and add the suffix <code> -tcp</code> after it | #Enter the directory to Steam.exe and add the suffix <code> -tcp</code> after it | ||
{{ii}}An example would be to enter <code>C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam\Steam.exe -tcp</code> | {{ii}}An example would be to enter <code>C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam\Steam.exe -tcp</code> | ||
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{{ii}} Steam has an official page including fixes related to network and connection issues: https://support.steampowered.com/kb_cat.php?id=4 | {{ii}} Steam has an official page including fixes related to network and connection issues: https://support.steampowered.com/kb_cat.php?id=4 | ||
| − | === Steam Won't Launch === | + | ===Steam Won't Launch=== |
| − | ==== Delete ClientRegistry.blob ==== | + | ====Delete ClientRegistry.blob==== |
Steam updates sometimes fail to progress, or the message <code>'Failed to find Steam'</code> appears. This can normally be fixed by deleting: | Steam updates sometimes fail to progress, or the message <code>'Failed to find Steam'</code> appears. This can normally be fixed by deleting: | ||
<code>ClientRegistry.blob</code> which can be found in the following locations: | <code>ClientRegistry.blob</code> which can be found in the following locations: | ||
| − | <code>C:\Program Files\Steam\</code> | + | <code>C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam\</code> |
<code>C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam\</code> | <code>C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam\</code> | ||
This will delete your saved password for Steam, and force it to re-download the Steam client update. This method usually always fix other problems with Steam, so it is usually a good idea to delete this whenever Steam encounters an error. | This will delete your saved password for Steam, and force it to re-download the Steam client update. This method usually always fix other problems with Steam, so it is usually a good idea to delete this whenever Steam encounters an error. | ||
| − | ==== Delete Folders ==== | + | ====Delete Folders==== |
If Steam will not launch, delete this folder and restart: | If Steam will not launch, delete this folder and restart: | ||
<code>C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam\appcache\</code> | <code>C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam\appcache\</code> | ||
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If this fails, try deleting everything except <code>\steamapps\</code> and <code>steam.exe</code>. | If this fails, try deleting everything except <code>\steamapps\</code> and <code>steam.exe</code>. | ||
| − | ==== Error following updates ==== | + | ====Error following updates==== |
Manifests as update loops, possibly having one of the following errors: | Manifests as update loops, possibly having one of the following errors: | ||
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So, if you run into this issue, first and foremost go to your Services and make sure "Application Experience" service is enabled and running. Enable and start it. This will fix the issue in most cases." | So, if you run into this issue, first and foremost go to your Services and make sure "Application Experience" service is enabled and running. Enable and start it. This will fix the issue in most cases." | ||
| − | ==== Clean reinstall ==== | + | ====Clean reinstall==== |
{{ii}} If the above steps do not resolve your problem, doing a clean reinstall of Steam may eliminate the issue. | {{ii}} If the above steps do not resolve your problem, doing a clean reinstall of Steam may eliminate the issue. | ||
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}} | }} | ||
| − | === Game Won't Launch === | + | ===Game Won't Launch=== |
| − | ==== Verify Integrity of Game Cache ==== | + | ====Verify Integrity of Game Cache==== |
This the first recommended troubleshooting step for all issues. Verifying the cache will checksum the game against Valve's code and replace any errant files. | This the first recommended troubleshooting step for all issues. Verifying the cache will checksum the game against Valve's code and replace any errant files. | ||
<code>Library > [Game] > Right click > Properties > Local files > Verify Integrity of Game Cache</code> | <code>Library > [Game] > Right click > Properties > Local files > Verify Integrity of Game Cache</code> | ||
| − | ==== First Time Setup ==== | + | ====First Time Setup==== |
When launching a freshly installed game on Steam for the first time, the game will normally initiate "First Time Setup", installing [[Glossary:DirectX|DirectX]], Visual Studio re-distributable and .NET libraries. This happens for the majority of Steam games. | When launching a freshly installed game on Steam for the first time, the game will normally initiate "First Time Setup", installing [[Glossary:DirectX|DirectX]], Visual Studio re-distributable and .NET libraries. This happens for the majority of Steam games. | ||
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Occasionally the root of the hard drive will be filled with a dozen or so "vcredist" files. These can be safely removed. | Occasionally the root of the hard drive will be filled with a dozen or so "vcredist" files. These can be safely removed. | ||
| − | ==== Steam Servers Too Busy ==== | + | ====Steam Servers Too Busy==== |
<code>Steam servers are currently unavailable</code> | <code>Steam servers are currently unavailable</code> | ||
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Locations in a time zone where it is currently late night may yield the best results. | Locations in a time zone where it is currently late night may yield the best results. | ||
| − | ==== Error 80 And Application Load Error P:0000065432 ==== | + | ====Error 80 And Application Load Error P:0000065432==== |
Simply restart Steam to fix this error. | Simply restart Steam to fix this error. | ||
| − | ==== Failed to start game. App already running | + | ====Failed to start game. App already running==== |
This is a legitimate error message preventing you from launching the same game twice. If it is incorrect, restart Steam. | This is a legitimate error message preventing you from launching the same game twice. If it is incorrect, restart Steam. | ||
| − | === Moving Steam Files === | + | ===Moving Steam Files=== |
| − | ==== Manual Move ==== | + | ====Manual Move==== |
If you wish to re-install Steam, or transfer your game data to a new hard drive, simply move the <code>steamapps</code> and <code>userdata</code> folders to a new location.<ref>[https://support.steampowered.com/kb_article.php?ref=7418-YUBN-8129 Moving a Steam Installation and Games - Steam Support]</ref> You will find these folders in the following folder by default: | If you wish to re-install Steam, or transfer your game data to a new hard drive, simply move the <code>steamapps</code> and <code>userdata</code> folders to a new location.<ref>[https://support.steampowered.com/kb_article.php?ref=7418-YUBN-8129 Moving a Steam Installation and Games - Steam Support]</ref> You will find these folders in the following folder by default: | ||
#* 64-bit Windows: <code>%ProgramFiles(x86)%\Steam</code> | #* 64-bit Windows: <code>%ProgramFiles(x86)%\Steam</code> | ||
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Depending on the size of the folder it may take some time. Then, on the new system, install Steam and let it run once. Move <code>steamapps</code> and <code>userdata</code> back to the new Steam folder, replacing any existing files, then run Steam, connect online, and 'install' the games, which will revalidate the existing files and update their entries in the Steam library. | Depending on the size of the folder it may take some time. Then, on the new system, install Steam and let it run once. Move <code>steamapps</code> and <code>userdata</code> back to the new Steam folder, replacing any existing files, then run Steam, connect online, and 'install' the games, which will revalidate the existing files and update their entries in the Steam library. | ||
| − | === Failed To Find Steam === | + | ===Failed To Find Steam=== |
This error can be solved by simply restarting the Steam client. If this fails, try to refer to [[#Delete clientregistry.blob]]. | This error can be solved by simply restarting the Steam client. If this fails, try to refer to [[#Delete clientregistry.blob]]. | ||
| − | ==== Moving Steam Games To Another Drive ==== | + | ====Moving Steam Games To Another Drive==== |
{{--}} Some games does not have the option to install to secondary drives, it is however possible to use [[Steam#Use_symbolic_links_to_create_links_from_one_directory_to_another|symbolic links]] for this matter. | {{--}} Some games does not have the option to install to secondary drives, it is however possible to use [[Steam#Use_symbolic_links_to_create_links_from_one_directory_to_another|symbolic links]] for this matter. | ||
Steam has the possibility to download games to secondary drives. | Steam has the possibility to download games to secondary drives. | ||
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| − | ===== Option - GameSave Manager ===== | + | =====Option - GameSave Manager===== |
[[GameSave Manager|GameSave Manager's]] Sync and Link feature can automate this process and is easily the best method. This is because [[GameSave Manager]]: | [[GameSave Manager|GameSave Manager's]] Sync and Link feature can automate this process and is easily the best method. This is because [[GameSave Manager]]: | ||
*contains a large list of relatively up to date game path locations | *contains a large list of relatively up to date game path locations | ||
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*can create [[Wikipedia:symbolic links|symbolic links]] in a single click. | *can create [[Wikipedia:symbolic links|symbolic links]] in a single click. | ||
| − | ==== Steam Backup ==== | + | ====Steam Backup==== |
{{ii}}The native backup facility can be used to backup and restore Steam games. However, the [[Steam#Manual Move|manual move]] method is simpler, faster and more reliable. | {{ii}}The native backup facility can be used to backup and restore Steam games. However, the [[Steam#Manual Move|manual move]] method is simpler, faster and more reliable. | ||
{{ii}}Sometimes when trying to install a backup created using inbuilt backup utility the loader will pop up and disappear constantly. To fix this, launch Steam and delete local data for the game you're trying to restore. Exit Steam and rerun the installer. | {{ii}}Sometimes when trying to install a backup created using inbuilt backup utility the loader will pop up and disappear constantly. To fix this, launch Steam and delete local data for the game you're trying to restore. Exit Steam and rerun the installer. | ||
| − | === Steam Offline Mode === | + | ===Steam Offline Mode=== |
Steam's '''Offline Mode''' is designed to allow access to one's Steam library without having an internet connection. However, there are a large number of problems that often occur. If one's internet connection is limited (i.e. if ports required for Steam to run are closed), Steam will not start in Offline Mode and will return the following error: | Steam's '''Offline Mode''' is designed to allow access to one's Steam library without having an internet connection. However, there are a large number of problems that often occur. If one's internet connection is limited (i.e. if ports required for Steam to run are closed), Steam will not start in Offline Mode and will return the following error: | ||
| Line 272: | Line 272: | ||
A number of ways to force '''Offline Mode''' are available. However, all methods require [[#Authentication|authentication]] by logging into Steam at least once with a working internet connection. | A number of ways to force '''Offline Mode''' are available. However, all methods require [[#Authentication|authentication]] by logging into Steam at least once with a working internet connection. | ||
| − | ==== Authentication ==== | + | ====Authentication==== |
# Find a working internet connection. Open Steam whilst internet connection is working. | # Find a working internet connection. Open Steam whilst internet connection is working. | ||
# Tick 'Remember my password'. | # Tick 'Remember my password'. | ||
| Line 279: | Line 279: | ||
Steam '''Offline Mode''' should now be accessible to the methods below. | Steam '''Offline Mode''' should now be accessible to the methods below. | ||
| − | ==== Disable Internet Connection ==== | + | ====Disable Internet Connection==== |
To ensure that Steam never tries to connect online (and lose the [[#Authentication|authentication]] required for '''Offline Mode'''), disable one's network adapter. Opening Steam with a disabled connection will normally open the Steam Offline mode. However, many users report problems with this method. Repeat the [[#Authentication|authentication]] step, remembering to tick 'Remember my password'. | To ensure that Steam never tries to connect online (and lose the [[#Authentication|authentication]] required for '''Offline Mode'''), disable one's network adapter. Opening Steam with a disabled connection will normally open the Steam Offline mode. However, many users report problems with this method. Repeat the [[#Authentication|authentication]] step, remembering to tick 'Remember my password'. | ||
| − | ==== Always Force Offline Mode ==== | + | ====Always Force Offline Mode==== |
{{Fixbox|1= | {{Fixbox|1= | ||
{{Fixbox/fix|Create/edit steam.cfg|ref=}} | {{Fixbox/fix|Create/edit steam.cfg|ref=}} | ||
| Line 297: | Line 297: | ||
}} | }} | ||
| − | ==== Hex Editing winui.gcf ==== | + | ====Hex Editing winui.gcf==== |
{{ii}}Reportedly the <code>winui.gcf</code> file can be hex edited in order to reenable '''Offline Mode'''. Please refer to [http://forums.steampowered.com/forums/showpost.php?p=29424701&postcount=39 instructions from X.nano]. | {{ii}}Reportedly the <code>winui.gcf</code> file can be hex edited in order to reenable '''Offline Mode'''. Please refer to [http://forums.steampowered.com/forums/showpost.php?p=29424701&postcount=39 instructions from X.nano]. | ||
| Line 339: | Line 339: | ||
}} | }} | ||
| − | == OS X == | + | ==OS X== |
| − | === Clientregistry.blob Location === | + | ===Clientregistry.blob Location=== |
{{ii}} If you are unable to find the file you can locate it using Terminal commands like Find and Locate. | {{ii}} If you are unable to find the file you can locate it using Terminal commands like Find and Locate. | ||
<code>~/Library/Application\ Support/Steam/</code> | <code>~/Library/Application\ Support/Steam/</code> | ||
| − | == Linux == | + | ==Linux== |
{{ii}} Steam is only officially supported on Ubuntu 12.04 and newer; install from the [http://store.steampowered.com/about/ Steam website] or the [https://apps.ubuntu.com/cat/applications/steam-launcher/ Ubuntu Software Centre]. | {{ii}} Steam is only officially supported on Ubuntu 12.04 and newer; install from the [http://store.steampowered.com/about/ Steam website] or the [https://apps.ubuntu.com/cat/applications/steam-launcher/ Ubuntu Software Centre]. | ||
{{ii}} Steam can also be [https://appdb.winehq.org/objectManager.php?sClass=version&iId=19444 installed in Wine] to gain access to Windows-only games which cannot be installed through the native Linux Steam client. | {{ii}} Steam can also be [https://appdb.winehq.org/objectManager.php?sClass=version&iId=19444 installed in Wine] to gain access to Windows-only games which cannot be installed through the native Linux Steam client. | ||
Revision as of 02:55, 5 April 2014
Mac OS X May 12, 2010
Linux February 14, 2013
| 300px | |
| Release dates |
|---|
Key points
- Digital distribution platform launched by Valve Corporation in 2003 which supports Windows, OS X and Linux.
- DRM: Steam client is required to play most games. Some games have extra DRM; refer to The Big List of 3rd Party DRM on Steam.
- Some games sold through retail and other digital distribution services activate on Steam; see Retail / Digital CD Keys.
Official links
Community links
- The Big List of 3rd Party DRM on Steam
- Steam Subreddit - a good place to discuss Steam issues.
- ValveTime - Valve news and discussion site.
- SteamDB - all information about games, sales, and even not yet released games. Updates instantaneously.
Big Picture
- See PC gaming on a TV and couch for general setup information.
- Big Picture Mode is a new interface which allows using Steam with a controller.
- Big Picture Mode requires Windows Vista or newer or OS X 10.7 (Lion) or newer; earlier versions are not supported.
| Instructions |
|---|
Taskbar showing on top
- This is caused by the incompatibility with DPI scaling in Windows.
| Instructions |
|---|
Speed up Big Picture web browser
- Steam Big Picture web browser can be slow.
| Instructions |
|---|
Adjust font size DPI
- Steam does not always respect the Windows dpi settings. This hack adjusts Steam's DPI.
- Appears to work if the Windows DPI settings are also adjusted above 100% size.
| Instructions |
|---|
Family Sharing
- Steam Family Sharing is a new feature (currently in beta) that allows Steam users to share games.
- Each player gets their own achievements, saves, etc.
- The owner can't play any game without kicking the borrower (after a grace period).[1]
- Some games are not available for sharing, e.g. those with third-party DRM; refer to The Big List of 3rd Party DRM on Steam for details.
Steam Trading Cards
Steam Trading Cards were added on May 15, 2013 in a closed beta. After playing certain games for a random amount of time, you'll earn a card. You can only earn up to half the cards a game has to offer, afterwards you'll be forced to trade or purchase cards in order to earn the full set. Once you have the full set you can craft them into a badge. This badge will also get you a random coupon for an item in the Steam store, as well as an emoticon for chat. For supported games, see Games with Steam Trading Cards support.
Other tips
Resume Download Whilst Playing Game
Most Steam games will pause all downloads in progress, even if the game running is single player and has no need to access the internet bandwidth.
This can be fixed by checking "Allow Steam to download other updates while this game is running" in the properties of a game before starting it.
Disable Advertising Popups
By default, Steam will periodically display popups of new games and announcements. This can be disabled by going to View > Settings > Interface > Notify me about additions.
Disable Automatic Game Updates
Steam automatically updates games when new patches are released by default. It may be useful to disable this (only possible on an individual game basis). This may also stop Steam interfering with modifications to game and configuration files.
From the game library, right click on the game title in the list, select "Properties", "Updates", and switch to "Do not automatically keep this game up to date".
Steam Skins
Steam has the option to install other skins. By far the most popular skin and most recommended skin is PixelVision. Installation requires installing the skin to the correct directory, sometimes installing a font and changing a setting within Steam.
Optimizing Steam's GCF Files and Batch Maintenance
- No longer valid as after conversion to ACF file format in 2012.
Steam's Game Properties offers an interface to validate and physically and internally de-fragment the game's GCF files if it has them, however Steam itself uses 2 GCF files but does not provide a way to do this, and there is a lot of time, prompting, and UI lockout between tasks. GCFScape has some batch mode utilities to handle this.
Get Nem's GCFScape. Once downloaded and installed, shutdown Steam*. Go to GCFScape's Tools menu -> Batch -> Defragment. Navigate to the Steam App Cache in
C:\Program Files\Steam\steamapps\ or
C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam\steamapps\
Select as many GCF Files as you want to batch de-fragment. If you decide to do all the files, this could take a long time! Consider making it an overnight task. If you just want to de-fragment the two unreachable files used by Steam, they are winui.gcf and sourceinit.gcf.
- Shutting down Steam is optional, however
winui.gcfandsourceinit.gcf, the two files Steam uses, are locked while Steam is running. Steam can run while performing maintenance on the other GCF files, but it may cause problems if there is an update while the files are being worked on.
GCFScape also provides batch validation, but does not have the repair facility that Steam has when it detects a corrupted file. Batch validation as an overnight task prior to backing up your files is a great idea. If it finds a problem, have Steam do a validation and repair on it.
Change Game Library Backgrounds
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Enhanced Steam in the Steam Client
The Enhanced Steam browser addon now works with the Steam Client. Follow the instructions here. The reddit post can be found here.
- Not recommended for non-technical users.
- Adds Pricing History, DRM Warnings, Wishlist Image Fixes, Custom Profile Backgrounds, and more.
Windows
Unable to log in
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- It's been reported that launching Steam as admin will fix the issue
- The directory
C:\Program Files (x86)is not present on 32-bit copies of Windows - Steam has an official page including fixes related to network and connection issues: https://support.steampowered.com/kb_cat.php?id=4
Steam Won't Launch
Delete ClientRegistry.blob
Steam updates sometimes fail to progress, or the message 'Failed to find Steam' appears. This can normally be fixed by deleting:
ClientRegistry.blob which can be found in the following locations:
C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam\
C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam\
This will delete your saved password for Steam, and force it to re-download the Steam client update. This method usually always fix other problems with Steam, so it is usually a good idea to delete this whenever Steam encounters an error.
Delete Folders
If Steam will not launch, delete this folder and restart:
C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam\appcache\
If this fails, try deleting everything except \steamapps\ and steam.exe.
Error following updates
Manifests as update loops, possibly having one of the following errors:
"ERROR! Steam.exe (main exception): ERROR: copying SteamNew.exe to Steam.exe failed, Win32 Error 32 "The process cannot access the file because it is being used by another process.""
The fix belongs to andrey-t, found here: http://steamcommunity.com/discussions/forum/1/846938350899919669/
"The primary cause of this problem is a confirmed bug in Windows 7. When "Application Experience" service is not running, Windows 7 will retain the lock on executable files for several minutes after they finished execution.
Most people who encounter this problem are people who decided to optimize their Windows services and disabled "Application Experience" service as part of that process.
Because of the above bug, Steam client cannot update itself since Windows 7 retains the lock on "Steam.exe".
So, if you run into this issue, first and foremost go to your Services and make sure "Application Experience" service is enabled and running. Enable and start it. This will fix the issue in most cases."
Clean reinstall
- If the above steps do not resolve your problem, doing a clean reinstall of Steam may eliminate the issue.
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Game Won't Launch
Verify Integrity of Game Cache
This the first recommended troubleshooting step for all issues. Verifying the cache will checksum the game against Valve's code and replace any errant files.
Library > [Game] > Right click > Properties > Local files > Verify Integrity of Game Cache
First Time Setup
When launching a freshly installed game on Steam for the first time, the game will normally initiate "First Time Setup", installing DirectX, Visual Studio re-distributable and .NET libraries. This happens for the majority of Steam games.
While you may be running the latest and greatest versions of these programs, the individual games may still require specific versions of APIs like Direct 3D 10.[2]
Occasionally the root of the hard drive will be filled with a dozen or so "vcredist" files. These can be safely removed.
Steam Servers Too Busy
Steam servers are currently unavailable
Steam servers are too busy
The Steam servers are currently too busy to handle your request. Please try again in a few minutes.
These messages may appear when trying to launch or install a game. This can be fixed by changing the Steam content server you are downloading from using the following steps:
- In the Steam client, select "Steam" then Settings.
- Navigate to the Downloads tab.
- Change the Download region to a different location.
Locations in a time zone where it is currently late night may yield the best results.
Error 80 And Application Load Error P:0000065432
Simply restart Steam to fix this error.
Failed to start game. App already running
This is a legitimate error message preventing you from launching the same game twice. If it is incorrect, restart Steam.
Moving Steam Files
Manual Move
If you wish to re-install Steam, or transfer your game data to a new hard drive, simply move the steamapps and userdata folders to a new location.[3] You will find these folders in the following folder by default:
- 64-bit Windows:
%ProgramFiles(x86)%\Steam - 32-bit Windows:
%ProgramFiles%\Steam
- 64-bit Windows:
Depending on the size of the folder it may take some time. Then, on the new system, install Steam and let it run once. Move steamapps and userdata back to the new Steam folder, replacing any existing files, then run Steam, connect online, and 'install' the games, which will revalidate the existing files and update their entries in the Steam library.
Failed To Find Steam
This error can be solved by simply restarting the Steam client. If this fails, try to refer to #Delete clientregistry.blob.
Moving Steam Games To Another Drive
- Some games does not have the option to install to secondary drives, it is however possible to use symbolic links for this matter.
Steam has the possibility to download games to secondary drives.
You can add a custom directory for games through Steam: Steam > Settings > Downloads > Steam Library Folders > Add Library folder
Option - GameSave Manager
GameSave Manager's Sync and Link feature can automate this process and is easily the best method. This is because GameSave Manager:
- contains a large list of relatively up to date game path locations
- can scan whether a game is already in that folder
- can create symbolic links in a single click.
Steam Backup
- The native backup facility can be used to backup and restore Steam games. However, the manual move method is simpler, faster and more reliable.
- Sometimes when trying to install a backup created using inbuilt backup utility the loader will pop up and disappear constantly. To fix this, launch Steam and delete local data for the game you're trying to restore. Exit Steam and rerun the installer.
Steam Offline Mode
Steam's Offline Mode is designed to allow access to one's Steam library without having an internet connection. However, there are a large number of problems that often occur. If one's internet connection is limited (i.e. if ports required for Steam to run are closed), Steam will not start in Offline Mode and will return the following error:
Could not connect to steam network. This could be due to a problem with your internet connection, or with the Steam network. Please visit www.steampowered.com for more info.
This can be due to Steam detecting a valid internet connection (for example, for accessing normal browsing through HTTP), but lacking connection to certain ports required to start Steam. Ports may not be open for a large variety of reasons, for example:
- Ports are not open on router.
- Router may be overloaded by activity such as BitTorrent.
- Firewall may be blocking Steam ports.
A number of ways to force Offline Mode are available. However, all methods require authentication by logging into Steam at least once with a working internet connection.
Authentication
- Find a working internet connection. Open Steam whilst internet connection is working.
- Tick 'Remember my password'.
- Click "Steam" > Go Offline. Steam should now restart.
Steam Offline Mode should now be accessible to the methods below.
Disable Internet Connection
To ensure that Steam never tries to connect online (and lose the authentication required for Offline Mode), disable one's network adapter. Opening Steam with a disabled connection will normally open the Steam Offline mode. However, many users report problems with this method. Repeat the authentication step, remembering to tick 'Remember my password'.
Always Force Offline Mode
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Hex Editing winui.gcf
- Reportedly the
winui.gcffile can be hex edited in order to reenable Offline Mode. Please refer to instructions from X.nano.
Steam lowers volume of background Metro apps (Windows 8 only)
- Sometimes Metro apps (e.g. Music app, MediaMonkey app,...) lower their volume when sent to the background, this might be caused by Steam.
Deactivate automatic muting
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Use push-to-talk for voice chat
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Some games does not have the option to install in other game directories
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OS X
Clientregistry.blob Location
- If you are unable to find the file you can locate it using Terminal commands like Find and Locate.
~/Library/Application\ Support/Steam/
Linux
- Steam is only officially supported on Ubuntu 12.04 and newer; install from the Steam website or the Ubuntu Software Centre.
- Steam can also be installed in Wine to gain access to Windows-only games which cannot be installed through the native Linux Steam client.