In a significant move that marks the end of an era for gamers on outdated systems, Valve has completed its transition from supporting legacy operating systems such as Windows 7, Windows 8, and certain macOS versions. After more than a year of warnings, the company has officially declared the latest update to the Steam client incompatible with these older platforms. Here's everything you need to know about why this change is happening and what it means for you.
This development began brewing back in March 2023 when Valve first announced it would no longer support these older operating systems. They extended a grace period for a few months after the official cutoff date, likely driven by the delay in adopting a newer version of the Chromium Embedded Framework (CEF), a component that many applications, including Steam, use for their user interfaces.
In an age where cyber threats are ceaseless and ever-evolving, Valve's position seems justified. Connecting to the internet on such antiquated platforms poses significant risks, and the recommendation is clear: upgrade to a more secure version of Windows or macOS to continue enjoying the latest gaming experiences safely.
For macOS users, particularly those on versions that fall under the deprecated umbrella, an upgrade could be tricky, especially if you're still clinging to 32-bit games. If your setup is on macOS 10.13 or 10.14, there’s a workaround using Open Core Legacy Patcher to facilitate an upgrade—though you'll have to forgo 32-bit compatibility entirely on macOS 10.15 and up.
And if you’re really steadfast about sticking to your outdated system? Consider dual-booting with a Linux distribution. With Valve’s Proton compatibility layer, which began as a feature for the Steam Deck, Linux has emerged as a legitimate gaming option. Fire up a modern Linux distro, install Steam, and with the proper configuration, you could be right back into gaming bliss. Ubuntu or Linux Mint are generally user-friendly choices for newcomers, though NVIDIA GPU users should be prepared for additional driver complexities.
So, whether you decide to brave the upgrade path, explore Linux, or take the safe route with GOG's offline installers, stay secure and game on!
Source: How-To Geek Steam Finally Ends Support for Old Windows and macOS Versions
The Rubble of Legacy Support
Valve's decision is akin to ripping off a band-aid that had been clinging on stubbornly for too long. Effective January 1, 2024, the Steam client will cease to connect to the internet on systems like Windows 7, Windows 8, and macOS versions 10.14 and 10.15. While those platforms can still access Steam's offline mode, the inability to download new games in real-time is akin to walking into a candy store with no money—frustrating, to say the least.This development began brewing back in March 2023 when Valve first announced it would no longer support these older operating systems. They extended a grace period for a few months after the official cutoff date, likely driven by the delay in adopting a newer version of the Chromium Embedded Framework (CEF), a component that many applications, including Steam, use for their user interfaces.
A Decision Rooted in Security
Behind the curtain lies the grim reality of operating system security—or lack thereof. Valve cited security vulnerabilities as a primary concern for discontinuing support for outdated systems. Both Microsoft and Apple have ceased providing critical security patches for Windows 7, Windows 8, or macOS versions 10.14 and 10.15. This makes these systems akin to sieve-like barriers in the face of malware and hacks, particularly dangerous for online interactions.In an age where cyber threats are ceaseless and ever-evolving, Valve's position seems justified. Connecting to the internet on such antiquated platforms poses significant risks, and the recommendation is clear: upgrade to a more secure version of Windows or macOS to continue enjoying the latest gaming experiences safely.
Pathways Forward: Upgrade or Adapt
For gamers still entrenched in the old systems, what can be done? If your heart is set on continuing with Windows 7 or 8, the path of least resistance is to upgrade to Windows 10—an endeavor that should be relatively smooth for most. However, be mindful: Microsoft halted free upgrades to Windows 10 in 2023. Therefore, you may need to shell out for a genuine license or utilize Windows 10 sans activation.For macOS users, particularly those on versions that fall under the deprecated umbrella, an upgrade could be tricky, especially if you're still clinging to 32-bit games. If your setup is on macOS 10.13 or 10.14, there’s a workaround using Open Core Legacy Patcher to facilitate an upgrade—though you'll have to forgo 32-bit compatibility entirely on macOS 10.15 and up.
And if you’re really steadfast about sticking to your outdated system? Consider dual-booting with a Linux distribution. With Valve’s Proton compatibility layer, which began as a feature for the Steam Deck, Linux has emerged as a legitimate gaming option. Fire up a modern Linux distro, install Steam, and with the proper configuration, you could be right back into gaming bliss. Ubuntu or Linux Mint are generally user-friendly choices for newcomers, though NVIDIA GPU users should be prepared for additional driver complexities.
GOG: An Alternative for Old-School Gamers
For those downtrodden souls clinging to their vintage setups, there is a silver lining. GOG (Good Old Games) offers offline installers for all the games on its storefront. If you're set on using your outdated OS but want access to new games, downloading installers and transferring them via USB is your best bet—just remember to keep your machine offline to fend off potential threats.Conclusion: A Necessary Shift
While Valve's decision to drop support can be seen as an abrupt divide for gamers who remain loyal to older versions of Windows or macOS, it’s a necessary evolution in the face of modern cybersecurity challenges. Upgrading may require some expense or a bit of technical knowing, but the potential payoff in terms of security, gaming enjoyment, and access to new titles is well worth the effort.So, whether you decide to brave the upgrade path, explore Linux, or take the safe route with GOG's offline installers, stay secure and game on!
Source: How-To Geek Steam Finally Ends Support for Old Windows and macOS Versions
