Which platform reigns supreme for multiplayer madness in the PC gaming realm?
With the increasing popularity of online gaming, multiplayer gaming has become one of the most significant aspects of PC gaming. Multiplayer games provide a unique and competitive experience to players, allowing them to compete against other like-minded people from around the world. However, with so many platforms available for PC gamers, it can be hard to know which platform reigns supreme for multiplayer madness. This post will take a closer look at the most popular platforms for PC gamers and determine which platform is the best for multiplayer gaming.
What is a PC gaming platform?
Before we dive in, let’s clarify what we mean by a PC gaming platform. In this context, it refers to a platform that offers a variety of games for PC gamers to play online. These platforms provide an interface that allows gamers to browse games, purchase and download games, and connect with other players. Some examples of popular PC gaming platforms include Steam, Epic Games Store, GOG, and Origin.
Steam
Steam is undoubtedly the most popular gaming platform, boasting over 120 million active users. It offers a vast library of games, including both single-player and multiplayer games. Some of the most popular multiplayer games on Steam include Dota 2, Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, and PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds. Steam’s multiplayer features include matchmaking, voice chat, and Steam Workshop, where players can create and share content.
One of the most significant advantages of Steam is its large user base. With so many players using the platform, it’s easy to find other players to play with. Steam’s robust matchmaking system ensures that players are matched with players of similar skill levels, providing a fair and enjoyable multiplayer experience.
Another advantage of Steam is its Steam Workshop. The Workshop allows players to create and share custom content, including maps, items, and mods, for games. This enables players to extend the lifespan of their games and keep them fresh with new content.
Epic Games Store
Epic Games Store is a relatively new player in the PC gaming platform arena. It has quickly gained popularity, thanks to its exclusives and the ability to download free games every week. Epic Games Store’s library of games is smaller than Steam’s, but it still features some of the most popular multiplayer games, including Fortnite and Rocket League.
One of the most significant advantages of Epic Games Store is its cross-platform play. This means that players can play with their friends who are playing on different platforms, including consoles. For example, Fortnite players can play with their friends who are playing on Xbox, PlayStation, or Nintendo Switch. This allows players to connect with a larger pool of players, increasing the chances of finding a match quickly.
Another advantage of Epic Games Store is the ability to download free games every week. This provides players with the opportunity to try out new games without committing to purchasing them. Additionally, Epic Games Store offers exclusives, such as Borderlands 3, making it a platform worth checking out.
GOG
GOG stands for Good Old Games, a platform that focuses on classic and DRM-free games. Its library of games is relatively small compared to Steam, but it offers some of the most beloved games, including The Witcher series and Baldur’s Gate. GOG’s multiplayer options are limited compared to Steam and Epic Games Store, but it still features some popular multiplayer games, including Divinity: Original Sin 2.
One of the most significant advantages of GOG is its focus on DRM-free games. This means that players can download and own the games they purchase entirely. Unlike Steam and Epic Games Store, GOG’s games don’t require an internet connection to play. This makes GOG a reliable platform for players who don’t have a stable internet connection or one who wants to play offline.
Another advantage of GOG is its focus on classic games. The platform features many classic games that aren’t available on other platforms. This makes GOG an excellent platform for players who want to experience nostalgia and play classic games.
Origin
Origin is a platform developed by Electronic Arts, mainly focused on EA’s titles. Its library of games includes some of the most popular multiplayer games, including Apex Legends and Battlefield V. Origin’s multiplayer features include matchmaking, voice chat, and the ability to join or create groups.
One of the significant advantages of Origin is its integration with EA’s games. This means that players who want to play EA’s titles can do so seamlessly through Origin. Additionally, Origin offers early access to some games, giving players the opportunity to play new games before they are released.
Another advantage of Origin is its exclusive content. Origin Access and Origin Access Premier subscribers can access a library of EA games, including some of EA’s latest titles. This makes Origin an excellent platform for EA fans who want to play all of their favorite EA games in one place.
Which platform is the best for multiplayer gaming?
Now that we have looked at some of the most popular PC gaming platforms for multiplayer gaming let’s determine which platform reigns supreme.
Despite Epic Games Store’s cross-platform play, Steam remains the best platform for multiplayer gaming. Steam’s large user base and robust matchmaking system ensure that players can find matches quickly and efficiently. Additionally, Steam’s Steam Workshop allows players to create and share custom content, extending the lifespan of games and keeping them fresh with new content.
Overall, it’s important to remember that each platform has its advantages and disadvantages. The best platform for multiplayer gaming may depend on personal preferences, the games you like to play, and the platform your friends play on. However, with its large user base and diverse library of games, Steam still remains the king of multiplayer gaming on PC.
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