Steam is introducing a significant update. The platform is all set to add support for season passes and establish more strict guidelines to protect its consumers.
This move is being taken mainly to address the problematic nature of season passes, particularly in free-to-play and multiplayer video games.
These passes often offer additional content like special weapons, costumes, and other digital updates for a fee.
The “Recommendations Reset” feature will allow the developers to communicate what is included in the season pass, providing a list of items along with their detailed descriptions.
This ensures that the customers get a clear knowledge of what they are purchasing.
If the release of any downloadable content or DLC is delayed, Steam will permit developers to reschedule the release for up to three months.
Moreover, if a buyer cancels a DLC, they will receive a refund for its value.
Steam is also redefining the season pass, stressing that it is essentially a pre-purchase of DLC.
Due to this, creating a season pass on Steam will consider the same rules & restrictions outlined in Steam’s documentation on pre-purchases.
Steam will provide season passes exclusively in rare instances to partners with a solid, established relationship and a proven success record on the platform.
This ensures that only reliable developers can offer such passes. This protects the consumers from potential fraud or unmet promises.
A key focus of the new guidelines is its transparency. The Developers are urged to communicate the content included in each DLC and the expected release dates before offering a season pass.
This is to provide a clear picture to the consumers of what they are purchasing and when they will receive it.
Steam’s focus on consumer protection means that only developers who can meet these strict criteria will be able to offer season passes, ensuring a more trustworthy and reliable system for gamers.
Steam’s initiative to add support for season passes and introduce stricter rules reflects a commitment to enhancing transparency and consumer protection in the gaming community.
By setting clear guidelines and requiring detailed communication from developers, Steam aims to ensure that gamers have a positive and informed experience when purchasing season passes.