Video games are more than just entertainment. They are a way for friends to connect, families to bond, and students to learn. But Steam currently prevents running multiple instances of a game from a single account. This means if I want to play on my PC, my laptop, or let my sibling play at the same time, I am forced to buy multiple copies of the same game—sometimes 5, 10, or even 15 times. That is not ownership. That is renting access.

I have personally spent hundreds of dollars on games I wanted to share with my family. My little brother loves co-op adventures, but he cannot play without buying another copy. I remember one weekend when we tried to play a game together online, but only one copy could run. It was frustrating and disappointing because it ruined what could have been hours of shared fun. Moments like this highlight how DRM policies can hurt families and friends who just want to enjoy their purchases together.

The problem extends beyond families. Studies show that 71% of gamers enjoy playing with friends and family, either locally or online. Educators and researchers also face challenges because games are increasingly used as teaching tools. From teaching teamwork and coding to running experiments on multiplayer dynamics, multiple instances of a game are often required. Current restrictions make these activities unnecessarily complicated and expensive.

There are practical solutions. Steam could implement a verification system to ensure multiple instances are used by the same owner or within the same household. This would protect developers’ interests while giving customers the flexibility to use what they paid for. Owning a game should mean being able to play it wherever you want, on any device, without limitations.

By signing this petition, you can urge Gabe Newell and Valve Corporation to rethink Steam’s DRM policies and make digital ownership meaningful. Let’s make gaming accessible, fair, and enjoyable for everyone, and ensure that purchasing a game truly means owning it.