Valve has recently introduced Steam Families on the Steam Beta Client, offering users a new set of family sharing options that aim to enhance the existing Family Sharing and Family View features. This update provides users with a more streamlined and user-friendly way to manage their family’s games, as well as granting greater control over gaming activities within the family unit.
One of the main highlights of Steam Families is the ability to create a Steam Family consisting of the primary user and up to five additional family members. Once a Steam Family is established, members can access and play games that support Family Sharing from each other’s libraries. This means that even if a family member is already playing a game, others can still access and play their shared games without any limitations.
Furthermore, Steam Family members will have their individual saved games, achievements, and workshop file access. This ensures that each family member can personalize their gaming experience while still benefiting from the shared library. It is important to note that not all games support Family Sharing, and developers have the option to exclude their games from this feature.
In addition to game sharing, Steam Families also introduce enhanced parental controls that enable adults to monitor and regulate their children’s gaming activities. Parents can now set specific limits on when and what games their kids can play on Steam. This includes the ability to track playtime, approve or deny access to certain games, manage community features, friends chat, and even oversee requests for additional playtime.
Moreover, child accounts within a Steam Family now have the option to request game purchases from in-family adults. This simplifies the process of buying games for children, as it eliminates the need for gift purchases or sharing sensitive credit card information. Adults can either approve or deny these requests via email or through the Steam mobile app, adding an extra layer of security and control.
For users interested in trying out the Steam Families beta, the process is simple. Open the Steam client, navigate to the top left menu, click on ‘Steam’, go to Settings, then Interface, and select Client Beta Participation from the dropdown menu. You should see Steam Family Beta listed as an option to select. Confirm your choice by clicking OK, and you can begin exploring the new features and functionalities of Steam Families. For more detailed instructions and information, Valve has provided an FAQ section in the Steam Families user guide.
Steam Families represents a significant update to Steam’s family sharing capabilities, offering users more control and convenience when it comes to managing their family’s gaming experiences. With improved game sharing options, enhanced parental controls, and simplified purchasing processes, Steam Families aims to provide a safe, user-friendly, and enjoyable gaming environment for families.
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