How To Download Games On PC?: Definitive Guide

New to PC gaming and want to know how to download games on PC? You are in the right place; this article is a comprehensive guide just for you!

PC gaming has exploded in popularity, offering a vast library of games to suit every taste. Gaming on PC has a lot of advantages including smoother performance compared to mobile (but depending on a PC of course)

You can also have more control over a game using a PC compared to some gaming platforms. So if you’re new to gaming on PC let me walk you through the process, from selecting the right platform to troubleshooting common issues. Let’s dive in!

Understanding Game Distribution Platforms

You can download your game directly on a PC, but there are some platforms you can use that are much easier for finding games.

Some games have their official websites where you can download their game directly it, but some don’t; so you can buy or download the game on different distribution platforms.

Steam: Your Gateway to Gaming

Steam is one of the most popular platforms for PC gaming, offering a vast library of titles from indie developers to major AAA studios. With its user-friendly interface and frequent sales, Steam has become a go-to destination for gamers worldwide.

Key Features of Steam:

• Extensive Game Library: Explore a diverse range of games across various genres, from action and adventure to strategy and simulation.
• Community Features: Connect with other gamers, discuss games, and join online communities.
• Cloud Saves: Automatically save your game progress and access it from any device.
• Frequent Sales and Discounts: Enjoy regular sales and promotions on a wide selection of games.

Creating a Steam Account and Navigating the Platform:

1. Visit the Steam website and click on “Sign In.”
2. Choose “Create a New Account” and follow the on-screen instructions to provide your personal information.
3. Once your account is created, you can log in and start exploring the Steam store.
4. Use the search bar to find specific games or browse through different categories.
5. To view a game’s details, click on its thumbnail. You’ll find information about the game, system requirements, reviews, and screenshots.

Downloading Games from Steam:

1. Add the desired game to your cart by clicking the “Add to Cart” button.
2. Proceed to checkout and complete the payment process.
3. Once your purchase is confirmed, the game will start downloading automatically.
4. After the download is complete, you can launch the game from your Steam library.

Note: A lot of the games in Steam are premium but they also have games available that you can download and play for free.

Epic Games Store: A Rising Star

The Epic Games Store has gained significant popularity in recent years, offering a growing library of games and exclusive titles. With its competitive pricing and frequent giveaways, it has attracted a large number of gamers.

Key Features of the Epic Games Store:

• Exclusive Titles: Enjoy exclusive access to games that are not available on other platforms.
• Free Games: Regularly claim free games added to the store.
• Epic Rewards: Earn in-game rewards and discounts by completing challenges.
• Social Features: Connect with friends and follow your favorite creators.

Creating an Epic Games Store Account and Navigating the Platform:

1. Visit the Epic Games Store website and click on “Sign In.”
2. Choose “Create a New Account” and follow the on-screen instructions to provide your personal information.
3. Once your account is created, you can log in and explore the Epic Games Store.
4. Use the search bar to find specific games or browse through different categories.
5. To view a game’s details, click on its thumbnail. You’ll find information about the game, system requirements, reviews, and screenshots.

Downloading Games from the Epic Games Store:

1. Add the desired game to your cart by clicking the “Add to Cart” button.
2. Proceed to checkout and complete the payment process.
3. Once your purchase is confirmed, the game will start downloading automatically.
4. After the download is complete, you can launch the game from your Epic Games Store library.

GOG.com: A Haven for DRM-Free Games

For gamers who value ownership and control over their games, GOG.com (Good Old Games) stands as a unique platform. GOG specializes in DRM-free games, meaning you get complete ownership of the downloaded files and the ability to play them without online verification or activation.

Key Features of GOG.com:

• DRM-Free Games: Enjoy complete control over your games without restrictions imposed by Digital Rights Management (DRM).
• Classic Games: Find a treasure trove of classic titles, meticulously preserved and optimized for modern systems.
• Fair Pricing: Often offers competitive pricing with frequent sales and discounts.
• Community-Driven: GOG actively engages with the gaming community and supports game preservation efforts.

Creating a GOG.com Account and Navigating the Platform:

1. Visit the GOG.com website and click on “Sign Up.”
2. Follow the on-screen instructions to create your account by providing your email address and desired password.
3. Once your account is created, you can log in and explore the GOG store.
4. Use the search bar to find specific games or browse through different categories like “Classic” or “Indie.”
5. To view a game’s details, click on its thumbnail. You’ll find information about the game, system requirements, reviews, and bonus content like developer commentaries or soundtracks.

Downloading Games from GOG.com:

1. Add the desired game to your cart by clicking the “Add to cart” button.
2. Proceed to checkout and complete the payment process.
3. Unlike other platforms, GOG often provides multiple download options. You may find a single installer file or separate installation parts. Choose the option that best suits your needs and download speed.
4. Once the download is complete, run the installer file (usually a .exe file) to begin the installation process.
5. After installation, you can launch the game from your GOG library or directly from your desktop shortcut.

Other Popular Platforms:

While Steam, Epic Games Store, and GOG.com are the major players in the PC gaming landscape, several other platforms offer unique libraries and experiences. Here’s a brief overview:

• Origin: Primarily used for games published by Electronic Arts (EA), including popular franchises like Battlefield, Titanfall, and The Sims.
• Uplay: Ubisoft’s platform features games from their studios, including Assassin’s Creed, Far Cry, and Tom Clancy’s series.
• Battle.net: Primarily focused on Blizzard Entertainment titles, such as World of Warcraft, StarCraft, and Overwatch.

These platforms often have their own launchers and offer features like online communities, achievements, and cloud saves specific to their games. If you’re interested in a particular game from these publishers, it’s likely available on their respective platforms.

Remember: When choosing a platform, consider the specific games you’re interested in and their availability. Some platforms offer exclusive titles you won’t find elsewhere.

Choosing the Right Game (Optional)

If you already have a game in mind, you can skip this section and proceed to the downloading and installing section below.

With so many games available, it can be overwhelming to decide where to start. Here are some factors to consider when selecting a game:

Genre:

• What type of gaming experience are you looking for? Action, adventure, role-playing, strategy, simulation, or something else?

System Requirements:

• Ensure your PC meets the minimum and recommended system requirements for the game to run smoothly. Check the game’s store page for detailed specifications.

Reviews and Ratings:

• Read reviews from other players to get an idea of the game’s quality, gameplay, and story. Look for reviews from reputable sources and consider the overall consensus.

Recommendations:

• Ask friends, family, or online communities for recommendations based on your preferences.

Finding Games on Different Platforms:

• Search Bars: Use the search bars on platforms like Steam, Epic Games Store, GOG.com, Origin, Uplay, and Battle.net to find specific games or browse by genre.
• Curated Lists: Many platforms offer curated lists of popular, new, or discounted games.
• Wishlists: Create wishlists on different platforms to save games you’re interested in for later.
• Community Forums: Engage with online gaming communities to discover new games and get recommendations.

By carefully considering these factors, you can find games that align with your interests and provide you with enjoyable gaming experiences.

Downloading and Installing Games

Now that you’ve chosen your game, it’s time to download and install it! Here’s a general overview of the process, followed by detailed instructions for popular platforms:

General Steps:

1. Create an Account: If you haven’t already, create an account on the platform where your chosen game is available (Steam, Epic Games Store, GOG.com, etc.).
2. Find the Game: Use the platform’s search bar or browse through categories to locate the game.
3. Add to Cart/Wishlist: Click the “Add to Cart” button if you’re ready to purchase, or add it to your wishlist for later consideration.
4. Purchase the Game: Proceed to checkout and complete the payment process using your preferred method.
5. Download the Game: Once your purchase is confirmed, the game will automatically start downloading through the platform’s launcher.
6. Install the Game: After the download is complete, run the installer file (usually a .exe file) to begin the installation process. Choose the installation location and follow any additional on-screen instructions.
7. Launch the Game: Once the installation is finished, you can launch the game from the platform’s library or directly from the desktop shortcut.
8. Download Directly In The Game Website: Some games are not available in the game distribution platform, their game can be found on their official website. Just head to the official website and find the download button >> then install the launcher that you downloaded>> After that you can download the additional file using the launcher.

Platform-Specific Instructions:

Steam:

• After purchasing a game, it will appear in your Steam library under the “Games” tab.
• Right-click on the game and select “Install” to begin the download and installation process.
• Steam offers customization options during installation, such as choosing the installation directory.

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Epic Games Store:

• Purchased games will be listed in your “Library” section.
• Click on the game and select “Install” to start the download.
• Like Steam, the Epic Games Store might offer options to choose the installation location.

GOG.com:

• Unlike other platforms, GOG often provides multiple download options. You may find a single installer file or separate installation parts. Choose the format that best suits your needs and download speed.
• Run the downloaded installer file (.exe format) to begin the installation process.
• After installation, you can launch the game directly from your desktop shortcut or by searching for it in your start menu.

These are the general steps for downloading and installing games. Remember, specific instructions might vary slightly depending on the platform. It’s always recommended to refer to the platform’s official documentation for detailed information.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with the best-laid plans, you might encounter some hiccups during the downloading and installation process. Here are some common issues and potential solutions:

Slow Download Speeds:

• Check Your Internet Connection: Ensure you have a stable and fast internet connection.
• Prioritize Downloads: Close unnecessary applications that might be competing for bandwidth.
• Pause Downloads: If you need to temporarily pause a download, most platforms allow you to do so and resume later.

Installation Errors:

• Insufficient Disk Space: Ensure you have enough free space on your hard drive to accommodate the game’s installation files.
• Corrupted Files: If an error occurs during the download or installation, try deleting the game files and downloading them again.
• Antivirus Interference: Temporarily disable your antivirus software to see if it’s causing conflicts.

Game Crashes or Freezes:

• Update Drivers: Ensure your graphics card drivers are up-to-date. Visit the manufacturer’s website for the latest drivers.
• Check System Requirements: Verify that your PC meets the minimum system requirements for the game.
• Verify Game Files: Some platforms offer tools to verify the integrity of game files. This can help resolve issues caused by corrupted files.
• Reduce Graphical Settings: If the game is crashing due to high graphical settings, try lowering them to see if it improves stability.

Additional Tips:

• Read the Game’s Forums: Check online forums or communities for known issues and potential solutions specific to the game you’re playing.
• Contact Customer Support: If you continue to experience problems, reach out to the platform’s or game developer’s customer support for assistance.

By following these troubleshooting steps and seeking help when needed, you can often resolve common issues and enjoy a smooth gaming experience.

Additional Tips and Tricks

Managing Your Game Library:

• Organize Your Games: Create folders or categories within your game library to keep your games organized.
• Remove Unplayed Games: If you have games you haven’t played in a while, consider uninstalling them to free up space.
• Use Wishlists: Add games to your wishlist on different platforms to keep track of titles you’re interested in.

Updating Games:

• Check for Updates: Regularly check for updates to your games. Updates often include bug fixes, new features, and performance improvements.
• Automatic Updates: Most platforms allow you to enable automatic updates for your games.
• Manual Updates: If automatic updates are disabled, you can manually check for and download updates.

Backing Up Your Game Saves:

• Cloud Saves: Many platforms offer cloud-saving features that automatically back up your game progress.
• Manual Backups: If you prefer manual backups, create regular backups of your saved files in a separate location.
• Third-Party Backup Tools: Consider using third-party backup tools to automate the process and ensure your saves are protected.

Exploring Mods and Customization Options:

• Mod Communities: Many games have thriving modding communities that create user-generated content to enhance the gameplay experience.
• Mod Managers: Use mod managers to easily install, manage, and update mods for your games.
• Customization Options: Explore the game’s built-in customization options to personalize your gameplay experience.

By following these tips, you can better manage your game library, ensure you have the latest versions of your games, protect your game saves, and enhance your gaming experience with mods and customization.

Conclusion

Downloading a game on a PC is easy, it just depends on what game you’ve chosen. As I’ve already mentioned you can find your game on a popular for good discounts and some added benefits, if the game is not available on a game distribution platform you can download the game directly from the official gaming website of your chosen PC game.

Now that you know how easy it was to download games on PC you can now enjoy playing your favorite game on PC. If you’re also a mobile gamer and you want to play your favorite mobile game on a PC you can consider using an emulator which will allow you to play almost every mobile game on your PC.