Steam’s End of an Era: Windows 7, 8, and 8.1 Are No Longer Supported – The Verge^Gaming

Steam, the world’s largest digital game distribution platform, has officially announced that it will no longer support the use of Windows 7, 8, and 8.1 on its platform. This decision comes as no surprise as many game developers and companies are starting to phase out support for older operating systems. With this news, PC gamers who have yet to upgrade to Windows 10 may find themselves in a difficult situation. Let’s take a closer look at what this means for the gaming community.

For years, Windows 7, 8, and 8.1 have been reliable operating systems for gaming. They have provided a stable and familiar environment for gamers to enjoy their favorite titles. However, as technology advances and new features become available, it becomes increasingly challenging for companies to continue supporting older systems. With Steam’s decision to end support for these operating systems, it’s clear that the gaming industry is moving forward and leaving the past behind.

One of the main reasons behind Steam’s decision is the popularity of Windows 10. According to Steam’s hardware and software survey, Windows 10 is currently the most used OS among Steam users, with a whopping 80.22% share. This number is expected to continue rising as more users upgrade to take advantage of the latest features and hardware compatibility. As such, it makes sense for Steam to focus on supporting the most popular and up-to-date operating system.

While this may seem like a nuisance for gamers still using Windows 7, 8, and 8.1, the reality is that they will not be entirely cut-off from Steam. Players will still be able to access their game library and play previously purchased titles on these operating systems. However, they will not be able to purchase new games or access certain features, such as SteamVR, which requires Windows 10.

For players who were planning on upgrading their operating system in the near future, this news may not be a huge concern. However, for those who have been hesitant to make the switch, this could be the push they needed. Aside from the compatibility and support factor, upgrading to Windows 10 also offers improved performance and security, providing a better overall gaming experience.

This change also brings to light the importance of keeping your operating system up-to-date, especially for gamers. With the rapid advancement of technology and the constant development of new games, it’s crucial to have an operating system that can handle all of these changes. While it may be tempting to stick with what’s familiar and comfortable, updating to the latest OS can greatly enhance your gaming experience.

In conclusion, Steam’s decision to stop supporting Windows 7, 8, and 8.1 may come as a shock to some, but it’s a necessary move as the gaming industry continues to evolve. For those still using these operating systems, it may be time to consider upgrading to Windows 10. Don’t let this be the end of your PC gaming journey – embrace change and stay up-to-date with the latest technology to fully enjoy the wonderful world of gaming.