If you’re into PC gaming, you’re probably well-acquainted with Steam, the go-to video game digital distribution platform. It’s the place where gamers congregate to explore, purchase, and play their favorite games. However, staying at the top of the video game hierarchy isn’t a walk in the park, and Steam keeps evolving to meet the demands of its users. One exciting example of Steam’s evolution is the complete revamp of the Steam Library. To make the most of these changes and ensure a seamless gaming experience, it’s crucial to keep your Steam client up to date. In this guide, we’ll explain how you can check for the latest Steam updates and explore the fantastic new features the revamped Steam Library brings to the table.
Automatic Updates
Steam is designed to automatically download and install updates as soon as you launch the application. That means you’ll always have the latest version without lifting a finger. However, if you find that your Steam client isn’t updating automatically for some reason, don’t worry, you can manually update it.
Updating Steam for Windows
- First, launch Steam and click on the Steam tab in the upper corner.
- In the menu that appears, select the “Check For Steam Client Updates…” option.
- Steam will then check for the availability of any new updates.
- If there are updates available, Steam will prompt you to install them.
Switching to the Beta Version
If you want to experience new features and improvements before they roll out to everyone, you can switch to the Beta version of Steam. Here’s how to do it:
Joining the Steam Beta
- Select Settings.
- Choose System.
- Check the “Participate in client beta” option.
- Select the “Restart Steam” button when prompted.
What’s New in the Steam Library?
The new Steam Library brings several exciting features to the table:
- Quicker Access to Game Updates:
- With the new client, you’ll be the first to know when games in your library receive updates or host events.
- Simply click on an event to see recent updates for that game.
- Recently Played Games:
- The revamped Steam client offers a shelf displaying games you’ve played or purchased recently.
- Click the big green button to pick up where you left off in your last game.
- Friends’ Activity Log:
- In the new Steam tab, you can see what your friends are currently playing.
- You might even discover a new game worth trying.
- Collections Tab:
- You can create custom shelves to highlight your favorite collections or showcase all your games.
- Game Information:
- Everything from developer insights to community discussions is now available on a single page.
- This makes it easier to keep up with new developments in your games.
- Improved Library Organization:
- The new Steam client simplifies the process of exploring, sorting, hiding, and featuring your games.
If these new features sound appealing to you, you might want to join the Beta phase as soon as possible. By doing so, you’ll gain early access to these exciting improvements in the Steam Library.
As a PC gamer, keeping your Steam client up to date is crucial to enjoy a secure and seamless gaming experience. By following the simple steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your Steam client always stays current. Additionally, the new and improved Steam Library brings a host of features that will enhance your gaming experience, making it easier to stay connected with your friends and explore the latest updates for your favorite games. So, whether you’re a seasoned gamer or just starting, don’t miss out on the exciting changes Steam has to offer.
