Side by side
GameEx vs Steam
Both stand on game launchers. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan AndroidLinuxMac+1
Choose GameEx if you want an emulator front end with broad control support and built-in media functions. Commercial users must register or purchase every copy, and users on Linux or Mac should account for experimental WINE support or alpha builds that may lack features.
Visit GameEx
Free plan AndroidAPIiPhone+4
Steam brings game discovery, social features, and mod sharing together at no charge for the service itself. Remember that content is licensed, game prices vary, and access may depend on an account, client, and internet connection.
Visit SteamThe facts
| GameEx | Steam | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | No |
| Runs on | Android, Linux, Mac, Windows | Android, API, iPhone, Linux, Mac, Web, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Registered GameEx key: $17, paid once | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 3 | 2 |
| Maker | Not published | Steam |
| Website | gameex.com | store.steampowered.com |
| On game launchers | #9 of 68 | #5 of 68 |
GameEx: what it does well
- Free plan costs nothing.
- Supports nearly any emulator and advanced MAME use.
- Works with arcade controls, remotes and gamepads.
- Includes video, DVD, picture, radio and jukebox features.
- Names integrations including Steam, EA Origin and Uplay.
What to know first
- Commercial use requires each copy to be registered or purchased.
- The installer requires administrator privileges on Windows.
- Linux and Mac use through WINE is experimental.
- Multiplatform alpha builds may lack features.
Steam: what it does well
- Catalog includes nearly 30,000 games.
- Text and voice chat support friends and groups.
- Workshop offers mods and cosmetics for nearly 1,000 games.
- Mobile app includes shopping and account protection.
What to know first
- Game and content prices vary.
- Use may require an account, client, and internet connection.
- Users under 13 may not subscribe.