How to Play Steam Games on Multiple Computers at One Time: A Complete Guide

Steam, an influential player in the world of PC gaming, offers an extensive library of games that can be enjoyed across multiple devices. However, many gamers often encounter confusion when it comes to playing those games on multiple computers simultaneously. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to maximize your gaming experience on Steam, including sharing games across computers, clarifying important limitations, and discussing potential setups.

Understanding Steam Library Sharing

Steam offers a feature called Family Library Sharing, which permits users to share their game library with others; however, it comes with constraints. While this feature enables two users to have access to the same library, only one person can play a shared game at any given time. In other words, if one user starts a game, another user trying to play a shared game will be prompted to either quit or purchase the game themselves.

Setting Up Family Library Sharing

Authorizing Devices: The first step to setting up Family Library Sharing is to authorize the computers you wish to use. Log into your Steam account on the other computer. Navigate to the “Settings” menu, then select “Family.” Here, you will see an option to authorize shared computers. Make sure the computer you want to share your library with is turned on and is also logged into your account.
Allowing Family Library Sharing: Once authorized, any user on that computer can request access to your library. After they send a request, you’ll need to approve this request for them to access the shared games.
Downloading the Games: Once access is permitted, users can download games from your library to their computer. However, keep in mind that the primary user will always retain priority over the game play.

Playing on Multiple Devices

While you can log into Steam on multiple devices, you cannot play the same game concurrently on different machines using the same account. Here’s how you can optimally utilize multiple devices:

Separate Accounts: If it’s essential for you to play games simultaneously (like when gaming with friends or family), consider creating multiple Steam accounts. Each user can enjoy their own library, and you can even share your games across these accounts using Family Library Sharing – just remember the limitation of one game play at a time per account.
Using Offline Mode: For games that support offline play, you can utilize Steam’s offline mode effectively. By activating offline mode on both computers, you can enjoy the same game without causing conflicts. Note that this doesn’t apply to online-only titles.
Remote Play Features: Steam’s Remote Play allows one user to stream their game to another device over a local network. This feature can be extremely useful when sharing gameplay experiences with a friend on another computer. Just ensure that both computers have a stable network connection.

Limitations to Keep in Mind

One Game Per Account: As reiterated, Steam does not allow multiple users to play the same game on a singular account at the same time. If you’re sharing a library, make sure to coordinate with those who will be playing to avoid conflicts.
Account Restrictions: Each Steam account can only be logged into one device at any time while playing a game. Thus, even if you have multiple accounts, ensure only one person is playing a game per account.
Family Sharing Limits: Though up to five accounts can be authorized to share your library, there are limitations on how often these accounts can access shared games. If you frequently swap which accounts can share, you may encounter temporary restrictions.

Conclusion

While Steam provides fabulous opportunities for gaming on multiple devices, understanding the ins and outs of its sharing policies is crucial for enhancing your experience. The Family Library Sharing feature allows the sharing of games with friends and family, but keep in mind that at least one person must be idle whenever a game is being played. To truly enjoy games on multiple computers, consider establishing separate accounts for different users and utilise features like Offline Mode and Remote Play.

Following these guidelines will help you get the most out of your Steam library without running afoul of account limitations. Enjoy your gaming, and may you find many shared adventures ahead!