Just a week ago, I was tipped off about the existence of a digital game store called the Epic Games Store, featuring curated PC games for both Windows and Mac. As a long-time fan of Steam, I was kind of skeptical about the quality of games released on the Epic Games Store, but nonetheless, I’ll give them a fair chance to see if they do provide a better deal to indie developers than their competitors.
In this review, I will be covering what Epic Games has to offer as a platform designed to support developers and the gaming community at large. As mentioned in its FAQ page, out of every purchase, developers will receive 88% of the profits generated from selling their games. And I have to admit, it’s a lot easier to set up than the Steam client.
Being a new contender, the Epic Games Store is still a work in progress, with a bunch of updates that need to be put in place before the platform is truly optimized for listing its most sought-out titles.
Right now, they are planning an overhaul of their payment methods, achievement service, and gifting system. They might also add the option to buy game bundles along with a separate store for the Android.
What the Epic Games Store does differently than Steam
Did you know that the Epic Games Store was once a serious contender for the top spot of “PC Gaming distributor”? Unlike Origin, a distribution platform Blizzard made to host EA-only games, Epic Games allows anyone to publish their games on the platform.
While Origin focuses on releasing booster packs and integrating social networks, Epic Games is more dedicated to its partnerships with developers. For one, it has introduced the Support-A-Creator program, to help content creators earn an income from streaming games and music videos.
In this affiliate program, fans can connect with these creators by following their tags or referral links. For each supporter who proceeds to spend V-bucks on games, they can expect to earn $5.00 per 10,000 credits, just from promoting their channel. Epic Games accepts over 15 different currencies no matter what country you live in.
Another thing it has are exclusive deals with game developers–by taking part in the marketing and publishing phase, it will give them the financial backing they need to release new games on the market. On top of that, they are listing free games every week throughout the year so that if you act early, you can obtain a free game and add it to your collections permanently.
Epic Games launcher enhances your gameplay experience
Epic Games is similar to Steam in that both clients let users try the demo version of a game before they decide to buy. Some games will have free trials for you to play, so in case you aren’t satisfied with your product, you can be eligible for a 14-day full refund. It’s important to keep an eye out for regional discounts even though it doesn’t have any special sales events yet.
The Epic Games Store has its roots in Fortnite, an online multiplayer game that has amassed a huge following after its successful worldwide debut. Fortnite is a combination of several genres including battle-royale, survival, third-person shooter, and sandbox. To be honest, I’m not too familiar with the gameplay besides the whole building structures and setting up traps thing in survival mode.
Since I was curious about the Epic Games client, I’ve taken the liberty of downloading it myself, despite already having an account registered on Steam. The launcher has fewer notable features and nowhere near the complexity of the Steam client. That being said, the interface is simple and straightforward; you won’t have a hard time finding what you’re looking for.
On Epic Games, you’ll discover all kinds of games–some are completely free whereas others must be pre-ordered for instant access. I would recommend checking out their “New Releases” section in case something catches your attention. Or if you’re short on money, why not take advantage of their “Free Games” catalog?
Any game you buy is sent straight to your library for you to sort through at a later date. You can add people to your friends’ list or join the Unreal Engine community to build your own assets and mods for hours of mindless entertainment. I swear this could very well be the next Garry’s mod!
As for me, I’ll stick to my side of the Steam client. I’ve invested far too much into my collection to back out now. Then again, I’m more interested in what you have to say about the Epic Games Store.
Please share your thoughts in the comments section below and I’ll get back to you soon.