Was Star Citizen on Steam?

As a passionate backer and avid player of Star Citizen, I'm often asked whether this ambitious space simulation game is available on Steam. The short answer is no, Star Citizen was not and is not currently on Steam. But let's dive deeper into why this is the case and what it means for players.

Star Citizen, developed by Cloud Imperium Games, has chosen to chart its own course in the vast universe of game distribution. Instead of relying on popular platforms like Steam, the game utilizes its own proprietary launcher and is exclusively available for purchase through the official Roberts Space Industries (RSI) website.

Why isn't Star Citizen on Steam?

There are several reasons why Star Citizen has not made its way onto Steam:

Ongoing Development: Star Citizen is still in active development, currently in an alpha state. The developers likely prefer to maintain full control over the distribution and updates of the game during this crucial phase.
Direct Community Engagement: By keeping the game off Steam, the developers can foster a more direct relationship with their community, which has been integral to the game's funding and development process.
Financial Considerations: Selling the game directly allows the developers to avoid Steam's revenue cut, potentially allowing more resources to be funneled back into the game's development.

How to Play Star Citizen Without Steam

If you're itching to explore the Star Citizen universe, here's how you can get started:

Visit the official RSI website
Create an account
Purchase a starter package
Download the RSI launcher
Install and launch the game through the RSI launcher

As a seasoned player, I can tell you that joining through a referral code can give you a significant boost when starting your journey. If you haven't joined Star Citizen yet, using this referral link will grant you an extra 50,000 UEC (in-game currency) to kickstart your adventure!

Can I Still Use Steam with Star Citizen?

While Star Citizen isn't officially on Steam, there are ways to integrate it with your Steam experience:

Add as a Non-Steam Game: You can add Star Citizen to your Steam library as a "non-Steam game". This allows you to launch it from Steam and use some Steam features like the overlay and playtime tracking.
Steam Deck Compatibility: Enterprising players have found ways to run Star Citizen on the Steam Deck, though this often requires some technical know-how and isn't officially supported.

The Future: Will Star Citizen Ever Be on Steam?

As a passionate backer, I have mixed feelings about the possibility of Star Citizen coming to Steam. On one hand, it could potentially bring in a flood of new players and increased visibility. On the other, I believe the current distribution model has its merits.

The direct sales approach allows the developers to focus on core gameplay mechanics without the added pressure of conforming to Steam's policies or dealing with the complexities of integrating with another platform. It also encourages new players to join through referrals, fostering a sense of community as experienced players guide newcomers through the vast and complex universe of Star Citizen.

Moreover, keeping Star Citizen off Steam during its alpha phase allows the developers to maintain a more controlled environment for testing and feedback. The game's ambitious scope and ongoing development make it unique in the gaming landscape, and this approach seems to align well with its current needs.

Conclusion: Charting Its Own Course

While Star Citizen isn't on Steam, this decision reflects the game's unique development journey and community-centric approach. As the game continues to evolve, who knows what the future might hold? For now, the best way to experience Star Citizen is through its official channels, joining a community of passionate players who are helping to shape this ambitious project.

Whether you're a seasoned space pilot or a curious newcomer, Star Citizen offers an unparalleled experience in space simulation. So while you won't find it on Steam, don't let that stop you from embarking on your own star-faring adventure. The universe of Star Citizen awaits, vast and full of possibilities, ready for you to make your mark!

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