Steam is one of the most popular gaming platforms in the world, with a massive library of games available to players. However, there are still some classic titles that have yet to make their way to the platform.
In this comprehensive list, we take a look at ten of the best video games that have never been released on Steam.
Anno 1602
Anno is one of the pioneers in terms of city-building games. You’ll have to build a city from scratch, expand from one island to another and ensure a top-notch economy. The economic focus is clearly there, not to mention diplomacy and wars.
The bad news is many of these Anno classics are not on Steam. Sure, some releases are there, but you want the classics, after all. In other words, forget about Anno 1503, Anno 1602, or Anno 1701, just to name a few. The ones available on Steam are the futuristic ones, the ones that never made it big.
Diablo
The Diablo franchise represents a must for every RPG fan out there. There are days of continuous work to build your way through one scenario after another, hundreds of monsters to kill, and incredible actions to hack.
The bad news is none of the Diablo games are available on Steam. Sure, those who’d like to experience the trilogy should start with the first release. But even if you like the more popular second release, nothing’s available on Steam, so you’ll have to look elsewhere.
Heroes of Might and Magic
This is another classic among video games, and surprisingly, you won’t be able to find it on Steam. From many points of view, it looks like Steam is mainly focused on modern games that will never manage to draw as much attention as their predecessors.
When it comes to the HoMM series, you’ll only find some of the new releases. However, classics like the first three releases are nowhere to be found. And when you think about it, those are the ones that actually made history. After all, who still played this game after the third release? Exactly!
Pokemon Emerald
Another classic game, another disappointment for Steam users. The bad news is nothing in the Pokemon series is likely to hit Steam anytime soon. And since this is a favorite for series fans only, chances are it will never make it to Steam, unless some new releases kick in.
Besides, if something new does come out, chances are it will never really match the classics. Queue a heated debate between 2D sprites on DS and 3D overworld graphics in Pokemon.
All in all, Pokemon Emerald is not the only Pokemon title not available on Steam. Titles like Fire Red, Fusion 3, and Brilliant Diamond are not there either. While the series is massive and has millions of fans all over the world, Nintendo is unwilling to hand over their IPs to any third party so there you have it.
Resident Evil 4
The fourth release in the series brings in the most significant changes in the franchise. Sure, the initial ones are considered classic, but this one took everything to another level. For example, you no longer had the top-down perspective, but a third-person vantage point from over the shoulder.
That means there’s more action, more monsters, and a more immersive experience. On top of all this, compared to the first releases in the franchise, the fourth one is more violent and intense. The bad news is you’ll never be able to find it on Steam.
Kena: Bridge of Spirits
If you thought Steam is all about modern games, you’re wrong. In fact, there are quite a few modern titles you won’t find in store, despite their overall popularity. This third-person action stands out with its storyline: A forest full of trapped spirits, and everyone aims to seek out the mystical shine.
The folklore adventure is classic in Asian culture, but the playstyle and graphics are modern and will not disappoint you. It’s a smooth game with good vibes and an extraordinary feel, much better than killing monsters and swapping weapons.
Warcraft 3
Warcraft 3 is a real-time strategy game that was released in 2002. It is widely regarded as one of the best RTS games ever made, with an engaging storyline and innovative gameplay mechanics.
The game also features a robust multiplayer mode, which has helped it maintain a dedicated fanbase even after all these years. Despite its popularity, Warcraft 3 has never been released on Steam, much to the disappointment of its fans.
Fortnite
Fortnite is a battle royale game that exploded in popularity when it was released in 2017. It features a unique building mechanic that allows players to construct structures on the fly, adding a new layer of strategy to the genre. The game has since expanded to include other modes, such as a creative mode where players can build their own levels.
Despite its massive popularity, Fortnite has never been released on Steam, as it is available exclusively through the Epic Games Store.
Kingdom Hearts series
The Kingdom Hearts series is a collection of action RPGs that combine the worlds and characters of Disney and Final Fantasy. The series has a dedicated fanbase and is known for its engaging storytelling and fast-paced gameplay.
Despite its popularity, most of the games in the series have never been released on Steam. While a few spin-off titles have made their way to the platform, the main installments still remain exclusive to consoles. This is a source of frustration for many PC gamers who would love to experience the series on their preferred platform.
Rocket League
You might have experienced similar games on mobile phones, but the original Rocket League is the one that started everything. You have a bit of football, a bit of racing, cars, fun, multiplayer games, and lots of action, what else can you ask for?
The concept is fairly simple to understand. You have to play football with cars. Obviously, ball control is terrible, but that’s the best part about it. With time, you’ll realize there actually is a bit of science behind those moves. All in all, this fun multiplayer hybrid is missing from Steam too.
Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 2
This isn’t only about the popular second release, but also about the first one, which is missing from Steam too. It’s a shame to see newer games are there, but the real classics haven’t been considered. After all, this is one of the most recognizable icons of the 32-bit console times.
Back then, the highly detailed visuals stood out. The smooth frame rate was extraordinary as well, not to mention what the series has actually managed to achieve. It resurrected skateboarding and brought it to a new generation of people. It was a thing of the 1980s, and it somehow smashed through the 1990s too.
Conclusion
While Steam may be the go-to platform for PC gamers, there are still some beloved titles that remain exclusive to other platforms. From classic RPGs like Final Fantasy VII to innovative battle royale games like Fortnite, these games have captured the hearts of people around the world.
Despite their absence from Steam, they continue to be played and celebrated by dedicated fans. While we may never see them on the platform, we can still appreciate them for what they are.