Steam, launched by Valve in 2003, revolutionized PC gaming by transforming how players buy, download, and manage games. Initially a digital distribution platform for Valve’s titles, it quickly expanded to include third-party games, offering a vast library accessible with just a few clicks. Steam’s user-friendly interface, frequent sales, and community features like forums and mod support made it a favorite among gamers. The introduction of achievements, cloud saves, and automatic updates further enhanced the experience. Over time, Steam became the dominant platform for PC gaming, fostering indie developers and reshaping the industry’s economic model. Its success paved the way for digital storefronts, making physical copies increasingly obsolete. Today, Steam remains a cornerstone of PC gaming culture.