Steam vs Epic Games Store: Which PC Gaming Store is Best?
As we progress through 2025, the battle between Steam and the Epic Games Store (EGS) continues to intensify, with both platforms rolling out new features, exclusives, and incentives to win over gamers. While Steam remains the industry leader with its massive library and community-driven ecosystem, Epic Games Store has aggressively expanded its offerings through exclusives, free games, and developer-friendly policies.
This comparison breaks down the key differences between the two platforms, helping you decide which launcher best suits your gaming needs in 2025.
Overview of Both Platforms
Steam: Launched in 2003 by Valve Corporation, Steam has established itself as the leading digital distribution platform for PC games. With a vast library of over 101,000 plus titles, it offers a wide range of games from indie projects to major AAA titles. Steam is known for its community features, extensive user reviews, and seasonal sales that attract millions of gamers.
Epic Games Store: Introduced in December 2018 by Epic Games, the Epic Games Store (EGS) aims to challenge Steam’s dominance. While The Epic Games Store offers over 4,000 plus titles with a smaller library as compared to steam, it has quickly gained attention by offering exclusive titles and free games on a regular basis (most notably the Epic Games Store Mystery Games event). The store’s revenue model is also more favorable to developers, taking only a 12% cut compared to Steam’s standard 30%.
Game Library and Discovery
Steam’s vast library remains its strongest asset. It offers an unparalleled selection of games across genres and platforms, including VR titles, Half-Life to Dota 2 and even films. The platform’s advanced recommendation system helps users discover new games based on their preferences through curated lists and community feedback.
In contrast, while the Epic Games Store has been expanding its library with notable titles. it still lacks the sheer volume found on Steam. However, EGS compensates for this by offering high-quality exclusives and a selection of free games that can entice users to build their libraries over time.
User Interface and Experience
Steam’s interface has evolved over its two-decade history but can feel cluttered, It offers various community tools such as forums and user reviews that enhance the shopping experience. New users may find it overwhelming.
The Epic Games Store offers a more streamlined experience but lacks many community features that gamers have come to expect. For instance, users cannot access user reviews directly on game pages. This simplicity may deter some users from exploring new titles.
Pricing and Sales
Both platforms offer competitive pricing strategies. Steam is renowned for its seasonal sales that often lead to significant discounts on popular titles. Conversely, Epic provides free games weekly and promotional discounts that can appeal to budget-conscious gamers.
Epic’s revenue-sharing model is also more favorable for developers, which may lead to more competitive pricing in the long run as developers seek better profit margins.
Community Engagement
Steam excels in community engagement with features such as user reviews, forums for discussions, and curated lists from fellow gamers. This creates a vibrant ecosystem where players can share experiences and recommendations.
Epic Games Store lacks these social features, which may deter some users who appreciate community interaction when choosing games. However, EGS compensates by providing direct access to exclusive content and promotions that can attract new users.
Choosing between Steam and the Epic Games Store ultimately depends on individual preferences:
| Feature | Steam | Epic Games Store |
|---|---|---|
| Game Library | 101,000 plus titles | 4,000 plus titles |
| Exclusives | Limited exclusives | Increasing number of exclusives |
| Free Games | Occasional promotions | Weekly free game offerings |
| User Interface (UI) | Feature-rich but complex | Clean but basic |
| Community Features | Extensive (forums, reviews) | Minimal |
| Revenue Share | 30% | 12% |
| Refund Policy | Flexible (under 2 hours playtime) | Similar policy |
Choose Steam if you value:
- A vast library of games
- Strong community features
- Extensive discovery options
Choose Epic Games Store if you prefer:
- Exclusive titles and weekly free offerings
- Simpler user interface
- More favorable for developers
Both platforms have their strengths and weaknesses; thus, many gamers use both to maximize their gaming experience. Whether you are looking for the latest AAA title or an indie gem, both stores have something to offer every gamer.