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The Internet has transformed the gaming world. And gamers around the globe have found new ways to get their hands on their favorite games. It is the courtesy of an online video game store. There are a plethora of online video game stores that you can leverage to pick out your favorite games and play online.
Through online gaming stores, you can not only purchase your favorite games, but have a collection of your games, items, and a community of gamers. However, if you’re new to online gaming, you will find various gaming marketplaces that will serve you right.
To help you in your search, we’ve compiled a list of top online video game stores with their features and pricing listed. Let’s hop onto that level then, shall we?
Top Online Video Game Stores You Don’t Want a Miss
The global gaming arena is expanding on levels unbound, and these online video game stores are just what the doctor recommended!
Steam
Steam is something you’re bound to encounter if you venture into the world of online gaming. Since its inception in 2002, this online gaming marketplace has turned into a go-to gaming platform for millions of gamers. Its pocket-friendly collection of games has all the latest updates, and the game debuts right on the platform. With over 73,000 games, the platform boasts a staggering number of 132 million monthly active users in 2021.
That said, you already must be aware of how active the Steam gaming community is when it comes to new releases. If a particular game is out there in the PC video game world, then it’s going to be on Steam. And the more you play, the more Steam Points you collect which you can trade for game elements, avatars, glam-ups, and communal nods. Read how you can sign up for Steam and get started playing cool games.
Features to love:
- “Big Picture Mode” for when you stream your games on TV.
- Feature to hide games from Steam library.
- Press Shift+Tab to access the main Steam functions from within any game.
- Include games that are not on Steam in your library.
Device Compatibility:
Operating Systems: Windows 7 or later, Linux Ubuntu 12.04 or later, Mac OS X 10.10 (Yosemite) or later, SteamOS.
Visit Steam.
Epic Games Store
Second on our list is the Epic Games store which is an online gaming hub powered by Epic Games for Windows and MacOS. As its reputation precedes it, this online gaming hub offers 2,900 titles, including leading original ones such as Fortnite, Battle Breakers, and Shadow Complex. This leading online gaming store started in 2018 and has been providing quality gaming, original and from other makers, experiences ever since.
Although smaller in scope than its competitors, the Epic Games Store comes with its own appeal. With a massive range of exclusive games such as Fortnite and the newer The Walking Dead game series, Epic Games adds authenticity to your gaming experience. Browse through their collection of free online games, as well as pocket-friendly ones.
Features you’ll love:
- A great repository of free games.
- Simple and user-oriented interface.
- Free weekly games
- Exclusive titles & Epic Mega Sales
- Creator support
- Epic Games Launcher integration
Device Compatibility:
For Epic Games Launcher – Windows 7 or higher, macOS 10.13 or higher.
Visit Epic Games Store.
GOG
Next up is GOG (Good ‘Ol Games), a digital distribution platform that excels in providing DRM-free games. It also provides a perfect space for you to create your own game collection, from exceptional AAAs, and unique indies to the best of classic gaming. They extensively test, debug, and apply patches—even for games that are older than you—to ensure that they function flawlessly on your next-generation PC and contemporary operating systems.
The best part? This masterpiece of an online video game store gives you full ownership of the games you purchase. So next time you need to play that game, you don’t need to connect to the GOG client for launch. Moreover, they provide a slew of discounts and coupons of up to 95% off on a wide variety of games on their platform. Furthermore, you can connect with the thriving community of gamers and discussion forums where you connect with them.
Features you’ll love:
- A vast collection of old games, retro games, popular franchises, and GOG exclusives.
- Attractive discounts of up to 95%.
- Content such as news and blogs to help you understand your gaming world better.
- A robust support system.
Device compatibility:
GOG Galaxy is compatible with Windows 8 or newer & Mac OS 10.15 or newer.
Visit GOG.
Xbox Live
The hunt for your online video game stores ends with Xbox Live. It serves as the premier platform for procuring games tailored for both your Xbox gaming console and PC.
This service is structured across three tiers: firstly, a complimentary tier facilitating individual game purchases; secondly, the subscription-based tier, Xbox Live Gold, offering a comprehensive package encompassing multiplayer gaming, community engagement, and enticing game discounts.
Lastly, there is the Xbox Game Pass for PC, an elevated tier incorporating all aforementioned features, coupled with exclusive access to an extensive library boasting over 100 exceptional Xbox games compatible with Windows.
Features you’ll love:
- Xbox Live Gold offers multiplayer gaming, free games, and exclusive discounts.
- Access to a vast library of games with Game Pass for a monthly fee.
- Xbox Cloud Gaming
- Cross-platform compatibility on Xbox consoles, PC, and mobile devices.
Device Compatibility:
For Xbox cloud gaming – Android, iPhones, iPads, MacBooks, Windows devices, Smart TVs, and VR headsets.
Visit Xbox.
Origin (Soon to be ‘EA Desktop’)
Origin, initially thought to be a digital download marketplace like Steam and GOG, underwent a transformative shift upon acquisition by EA. It evolved into its designated digital storefront. Presently, it stands as the exclusive platform for procuring and downloading games from the EA catalog, eliminating the need to get your hands on a physical copy.
For enthusiasts seeking to download games belonging to acclaimed EA series such as The Sims, Star Wars, FIFA, Madden NFL, and NBA Live, Origin stands as the requisite online video game store for securing these digital games.
Features you’ll love:
- Access to a library of games, including EA titles and third-party releases. (subscription-based.)
- Access to EA’s catalog of exclusive games (FIFA and Battlefield.)
- Play selected new releases before their official launch dates with Origin’s Early Access program.
- Easily manage and organize your game library with Origin’s user-friendly interface.
- Connect with friends, join gaming communities, and share achievements through Origin’s social features.
Device Compatibility:
Windows 10 (an Intel Core i5 9600K or AMD Ryzen 5 2600X processor); at least 80GB of free space, & 8GB of system memory.
Visit Origin.
Itch.io
If you’ve been looking for an online gaming marketplace that allows listing, sale, and download of indie video games, then Itch.io is for you. It presents game designers with a flexible platform where they dictate the prices and design their pages their way. For the gaming customers, they provide a massive selection of diverse, independent games covering all imaginable categories.
This bustling market offers a wide range of both free and paid games, making it a solid choice for digging if you’re seeking unique computer games to satisfy your gaming cravings. With more than 200,000 games on its platform, it’s always expanding with the rise in a number of game developers providing exciting games on the platform.
Features you’ll love:
- Pay-What-You-Want Model
- Open Marketplace for developers to publish and distribute games
- Community-Centric, with forums, game jams, and feedback loops
- Personalize your itch.io profile, and discover niche games
Device Compatibility:
Only accessible and playable on PCs.
Visit itch.io.
Green Man
Green Man Gaming sets up as a notable e-commerce platform for video games from a wide range of publishers. For most part of its operation, this online video game retailer publishes games that come directly from the publishers. A unique aspect is its sync with the Steam platform, enabling players to connect to and play games effortlessly.
Green Man Gaming is known for giving hefty game discounts, often mirroring Steam’s discounts. Before you buy from the Steam store, check out Green Man Gaming. You can often save money and see all the deals available. They also host a massive Discord community forum for you to indulge with like-minded individuals and take your gaming experience to new levels.
Features you’ll love:
- VIP Program with exclusive discounts, early access to deals, and special offers
- Earn and redeem credits on purchases
- Trade in digital games for credit toward new purchases
- Participate in community voting to unlock additional discounts on select games
- Receive bonuses such as in-game items or exclusive content when pre-ordering select titles
Device Compatibility:
PCs.
Visit Green Man Gaming.
The Bottom Line: Verdict
There is vast space for online video game stores that can leave you dumbfounded with all their marketing gimmicks and attractive banners. However, in order to trust a site that offers you valuable experience is crucial. That is why you must conduct proper due diligence in order to reach the right decision. You can rest assured that you will have better management and play experience with an online gaming marketplace where you have all your favorite games in one place.
FAQs
Which is the best online game store?
Steam and GoG are some of the best online video games stores that you must try if you’re a gaming enthusiast.
What is the most popular video game store?
Gamestop, Xbox Live, and Steam are some of the most popular video game stores out there that provide a wide variety of video games.
What is the best place to buy retro games?
GameStop Retro, JJGames, DKOldies and Lukie games are some of the most popular places to buy retro games and enjoy nostalgia.
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