Steam has long been a cornerstone of PC gaming, but its offerings extend far beyond being a mere game launcher. With numerous updates, Steam now boasts a variety of features that many gamers might not yet be aware of.
In this article, we will explore eleven hidden Steam features that can significantly enhance your gaming experience. From streaming games to customizing your library, these tips will ensure you make the most out of your Steam account.
Play Steam games on your TV or phone
Steam is primarily a PC gaming platform, but its utility does not stop there. With the Steam Link app, users can stream games from their PC to compatible devices like phones, tablets, and TVs. To utilize this, install Steam Link on the device and connect it to your gaming PC. This connection can be established over a local network or the internet, permitting gameplay even when you are away from home. Essentially, your PC functions as a cloud service, streaming the game’s visual output while receiving input from your device in real time.
For those who prefer a more hands-on approach, building a custom Steam gaming console is possible. This DIY project can bring your gaming experience to the next level, although it requires certain technical know-how. Whether you are on the go or at home, this feature exemplifies Steam’s flexibility in enhancing your gaming experience beyond the traditional scope.
See how much you have spent on Steam
If curiosity strikes about the amount you have invested in your gaming library, Steam provides an insightful feature. Navigate to Help > Steam support > My account > Data related to your Steam account > External funds used to see the complete breakdown of your expenditure. This feature offers a transparent view of your financial commitment to gaming, making it easier to understand where your resources have gone.
Take rich notes for each game
The relatively new Notes feature in Steam is a valuable addition. Accessible through the Steam overlay using the Shift + Tab shortcut, this feature allows you to keep detailed notes on a per-game basis. It is particularly helpful for storing strategic plans or reminders for future gameplay sessions.
Beyond simple text, Steam Notes can include links to webpages, code, and even images. This multimedia capability makes it a highly versatile tool for enhancing your gaming experience. To access your notes outside of the game, navigate to the game in your library and find the Notes tab on the right-hand side of the Steam window.
This feature demonstrates Steam’s commitment to improving user experience by enabling better planning and strategizing in games. Whether you are a casual gamer or a serious strategist, this tool can significantly enhance your gaming sessions.
Share Steam games with friends and family
Sharing your Steam game library with friends and family is a fantastic way to ensure your purchased games are utilized. The Steam Family feature allows you to share your game library with up to five other users. Each game can be shared individually based on the developer’s settings.
To enable this feature, both users must have Steam Guard enabled. Navigate to Steam > Settings > Family, click on Activate family library on this device, and select the account you want to share with. When someone wants to play a shared game, they send a borrow request that needs approval from the owner.
While only one person can play a shared game at a time, this feature adds significant value by bringing loved ones into your gaming universe. It also includes parental controls, making it a safe option for sharing with younger family members.
Use custom controller configs per game
For gamers who prefer controllers over a keyboard and mouse, Steam offers custom controller configurations. These presets, created by the community, can be downloaded and applied on a per-game basis. Often, they offer improved functionality over default settings.
To find these custom controller configurations, navigate to Steam > View > Big Picture Mode. Within your game library, select a game and click on the controller icon. Here, you can browse and apply both official and community-made configurations, enhancing your gameplay experience.
Custom controller configurations allow you to tailor your control scheme to your play style, making games more enjoyable and accessible.
Customize your Steam library art
Steam allows you to customize the artwork for every game in your library. This includes changing the game’s logo, background, and other visual elements. To do this, open your Steam library, select the game, right-click its background image, and choose a replacement image.
This customization feature is not just for aesthetics; it also enhances usability by allowing you to replace logos for better readability. Using fan-made artwork from sources like SteamGridDB can make your library visually appealing while maintaining professional quality.
Sell Steam Trading Cards for wallet funds
Steam Trading Cards might be insignificant to some, but they can be a small source of income. By selling these cards, you can accumulate funds in your Steam Wallet, which can be used for future purchases.
To sell your Steam Trading Cards, click on your account name and select Inventory. Choose the cards you wish to sell, click the Sell button, and set a fair price. Although sales might not be instantaneous, they eventually add up, providing extra funds for your next game or DLC.
This feature turns seemingly trivial collectibles into valuable assets for future gaming expenditures.
Record video footage of your sessions
Recording your gameplay within Steam is now more accessible than ever, thanks to a recently added game recording feature. To enable this, switch to the beta version of Steam by navigating to Steam > Settings > Interface and selecting a beta option. After restarting Steam, go to Steam > Settings > Game Recording. Choose either Background or On Demand recording mode based on your preference.
This feature also allows you to add timeline markers, clip footage, and share highlights directly from the Steam interface. Open the Steam overlay using Shift + Tab to start editing your recordings instantly.
The integrated game recording feature simplifies capturing and sharing your gaming moments, making it an invaluable tool for content creators and casual gamers alike.
Check your FPS in games
Checking your in-game frame rate has never been easier with Steam’s built-in FPS counter. This feature provides a simple yet effective way to monitor performance. Enable it by navigating to Steam > Settings > In game and turning on the In-game FPS counter.
While it may not be the most advanced tool for frame rate monitoring, its simplicity and ease of use make it a popular choice among gamers. It provides a quick snapshot of your game’s performance without needing additional software.
Change Steam’s start page
If you often find yourself tempted by game sales and promotions, changing your Steam start page can help. Navigate to Steam > Settings > Interface and choose from options like News, Library, Community Home, or Friend activity.
This customization can reduce the likelihood of impulsive purchases by minimizing exposure to enticing offers. It is a simple yet effective way to gain more control over your spending habits on Steam.
Scroll to find hidden gems you’d like
Steam’s user interface overhaul has made discovering new games easier. By scrolling down the Store page, you can find recommendations tailored to your preferences. These suggestions are based on factors such as the games you play, those in your wishlist, and even what your friends are playing.
As you continue to scroll, you may uncover lesser-known titles that align with your interests. This feature transforms the exploration of new games into an engaging activity, helping you discover hidden gems within Steam’s extensive library.
Exploring these hidden features can transform how you interact with your games and Steam itself. Each of these tools offers unique advantages, contributing to a more personalized and efficient gaming experience.
Whether you are sharing your games, recording your sessions, or finding new titles, these features enable you to fully utilize the capabilities of Steam. Do not miss out on these valuable options that can elevate your gaming sessions to new heights.
Source: Pcworld