How does the "Steam" platform work? Is it DRM? Can I trust "Steam"-powered software? [closed]

Solution 1:

• http://store.steampowered.com/about/
• it is DRM
• You do not "own" supreme commander. you license it. you are trusting steam to manage and verify this license with the publisher. hopefully they never go out of business
• no
• no

Solution 2:

Yes, Steam is a form of DRM. However, Steam is a great gaming platform that has matured well over the years. I typically do not like registering or anything to do with DRM, but Steam is user friendly and in my cases (and what I've heard from friends) Valve is very helpful if you have issues with your purchase(s). They won't leave you out in the cold.

Steam is not only a license authenticator but also manages friend networks (like Xbox Live), and delivers game patches/updates to you automatically.

In the years I have been using it, it's never done anything sinister.