The Challenge of Digital Game Inheritability on Steam

The text discusses the issue of digital game inheritability, particularly on the Steam gaming platform. It highlights the legal restrictions imposed by Valve, stating that Steam accounts and games are non-transferable, posing challenges for estate planning. Potential loopholes are mentioned, such as leaving instructions for descendants or transferring games installed on physical devices. The inability to transfer digital game licenses not only affects personal estate planning but also has implications for video game preservation efforts. The restrictions may hinder the legal ownership of digital games and accounts, posing challenges for the preservation of digital-born video games.

• Steam accounts and games are non-transferable upon the owner's death
• Potential loopholes include leaving instructions for descendants and transferring games installed on physical devices
• Implications on video game preservation efforts due to the restrictions on digital game inheritability