Steam vs. Epic Games Store: Where Should You Buy Your Games?

6 August 2025

Ever since the rise of digital gaming storefronts, gamers have debated where they should buy their games. While physical game discs are (mostly) becoming a thing of the past, Steam and Epic Games Store have emerged as two of the most prominent options for PC gamers. But how do these two platforms stack up against each other? Which one is worth your hard-earned money, your precious storage space, and your loyalty? Let's break it all down in this ultimate face-off: Steam vs. Epic Games Store.

What Is Steam?

If you’ve been gaming on a PC for any time now, you’ve probably heard of Steam. It’s basically the OG of digital game stores. Launched by Valve Corporation in 2003, Steam has been the powerhouse of PC gaming for decades. It offers a massive library of games, tools for developers, community features, and even the ability to mod games easily. With over 120 million monthly active users, it’s undeniably the juggernaut of digital storefronts.

But is bigger always better? Let’s put Steam under the microscope.

What Is Epic Games Store?

The Epic Games Store, often abbreviated to EGS, is the flashy new kid on the block. Epic Games launched their storefront in late 2018 with a simple mission: to break Steam’s monopoly. And they’ve done that pretty successfully so far. Backed by the insane success of Fortnite, Epic has used its billions to lure developers, publishers, and, most importantly, players with exclusive deals and free games.

But is all that glitz sustainable? Does it do enough to dethrone Steam? Let’s dive deeper!

Game Library: Who Has More to Offer?

Steam: A Treasure Trove of Games

Steam’s game library is simply unmatched. It has everything from massive AAA titles to quirky indie games you’ve never heard of (but might accidentally fall in love with). Want to replay a classic like Half-Life 2? Done. Want niche simulators like Lawn Mowing Simulator? Easy peasy. Steam currently boasts tens of thousands of games, meaning you’ll never run out of options.

Steam also supports mods via the Steam Workshop, which enhances the replay value of many games. If you love tweaking your games or adding custom content, Steam makes it ridiculously easy. It’s like having an all-you-can-eat gaming buffet.

Epic Games Store: Quality or Quantity?

On the other hand, Epic Games Store doesn't have as many games. While they’re catching up, their library is relatively small compared to Steam’s. However, what they lack in quantity, they make up for in exclusivity. Epic has secured big exclusives like Fortnite (obviously), Borderlands 3, Final Fantasy VII Remake, and Alan Wake 2. These titles are only available on EGS for PC gamers, at least for a limited time.

So, are you the kind of gamer who values having every option under the sun (hello, Steam)? Or are you more into the big-name exclusives (Epic squad, where you at?)?

Pricing and Discounts: Who’s Easier on Your Wallet?

Steam Sales: The OG Bargain Bin

Steam is the place to be during sales. Steam Summer Sale, Winter Sale, Autumn Sale, and even random Midweek Madness deals—Steam is like that always-generous friend who constantly gives you overpriced games at crazy discounts. Games can go for up to 90% off, which can turn an expensive gaming library into an affordable reality.

However, Steam’s regular pricing (outside sales) may not always be the cheapest. Sometimes, you’ll find better deals on third-party sellers or Epic’s store.

Epic’s Freebies and Coupons: A Wallet’s Paradise

Epic Games Store’s most iconic feature? Its free games. Every week, Epic gives away at least one (and sometimes two or more) free games. We’re not talking about bargain bin games either—these are legit titles. Control, GTA V, Borderlands 3—you name it. If you’ve been consistently grabbing their free games since launch, your library is probably stacked right now.

What’s even better? Epic often throws in $10 coupons during sales, allowing you to snatch up games for dirt cheap. If discounts are your love language, Epic knows how to flirt better than anyone.

Community and Features: What Keeps You Coming Back?

Steam: A Gamers’ Hub

Steam isn’t just a store—it’s a whole ecosystem. There’s the Steam Community, where you can join groups, share screenshots, and write reviews. Achievements? Check. Trading cards? Check. A library that lets you organize your games? Triple check.

Steam also has Big Picture Mode for couch gaming and Steam Remote Play, which lets you play local co-op games online with friends. Add cloud saves and robust friends lists, and you’ve got a platform that feels like home.

But let’s not forget Steam’s Achilles’ heel—it can sometimes feel bloated. With so many features crammed into one app, it’s not the leanest experience. Plus, the UI hasn’t aged particularly well.

Epic Games Store: Simple Yet Lacking

Epic Games Store, on the other hand, keeps it simple. Maybe a bit too simple. It has a clean interface, sure, but it’s missing a lot of the features that make Steam so beloved. There are no forums, no achievements, and no workshop for mods. If Steam is like a Swiss Army knife, Epic is more like a clean, minimalist blade—it gets the job done, but you’ll wish it had a few more tools.

On the upside, Epic does have cloud saves, a basic friends list, and regular updates to improve its features. They are slowly but surely narrowing the gap.

Developer-Friendly: Who Treats Game Creators Better?

Steam: The Established Industry Giant

Steam takes a 30% cut on game sales, which has been the industry standard for a long time. While this might seem steep, most developers still prefer launching on Steam due to its massive user base. The exposure alone guarantees sales.

Epic: Generous but Controversial

Epic Games Store changes the game here by taking only a 12% cut, leaving developers with a bigger slice of the pie. This has compelled many developers (especially indie creators) to launch exclusively on Epic’s store. However, their practice of securing exclusives has faced backlash from gamers who dislike being “forced” to use EGS.

User Experience: Smooth or Complicated?

Steam: Feature-Rich but Clunky

Steam’s client is packed with features, but it’s not the most user-friendly. Navigation can feel overwhelming, and its interface could use a modern facelift. It’s the gaming equivalent of that one messy drawer you keep meaning to organize.

Epic: Sleek but Limited

Epic Games Store is sleek and easy to use, but it feels barebones. Think of it as a minimalist apartment—it looks nice, but you might miss having a couch or a microwave.

So, Where Should You Buy Your Games?

The answer isn’t black and white. It depends on what you value most.

- Go with Steam if you:
- Want access to an enormous library of games.
- Love community features like reviews, mods, and forums.
- Are a die-hard fan of Steam’s sales and ecosystem.

- Go with Epic Games Store if you:
- Enjoy free games and insane coupons.
- Have a soft spot for exclusive titles.
- Support a platform that gives more to developers.

In an ideal world, you don’t have to choose just one. Why not ride both trains? Steam can be your main hub, while Epic can be your go-to for freebies and exclusives. After all, more options mean more games—and who doesn’t love that?