Epic Games Store: Your Ultimate Guide To Games & Deals
Hey guys! Are you ready to dive into the awesome world of the Epic Games Store? If you're a gamer, you've probably already heard of it, but if not, buckle up! We’re going to explore everything this digital storefront has to offer, from its incredible free games to its exclusive titles and beyond. So, let’s get started and find out why the Epic Games Store has become a major player in the PC gaming scene!
The Epic Games Store is a digital video game storefront launched by Epic Games in December 2018. It's designed as a competitor to established platforms like Steam, offering both games developed by Epic Games themselves (like the massively popular Fortnite) and titles from third-party developers. The store is available via a dedicated launcher app for Windows and macOS. One of the key strategies Epic Games has employed to attract users is offering free games on a weekly basis. These aren't just obscure indie titles either; they often include well-known and critically acclaimed games, sometimes even AAA releases. This has made the Epic Games Store a must-have for gamers looking to expand their library without breaking the bank. Another defining feature is its developer-friendly revenue split. Epic Games takes a smaller cut of game sales compared to some other platforms, which incentivizes developers to release their games on the Epic Games Store. This can lead to timed exclusives, where certain games are only available on the Epic Games Store for a set period before potentially appearing on other platforms.
What Makes the Epic Games Store Stand Out?
Okay, so what exactly makes the Epic Games Store so special? Let's break down some of its coolest features:
Free Games Galore
Seriously, who doesn't love free stuff? The Epic Games Store gives away free games every week. Yes, you read that right – every week! These aren't just some random, unheard-of titles either. We're talking about games that have been critically acclaimed and loved by gamers worldwide. By offering these freebies, Epic Games has built a massive user base and given players a chance to discover new games they might never have tried otherwise. To snag these free games, all you need is an Epic Games account. Once you claim a free game, it's yours to keep forever. Just head to the store page each week to see what's on offer, and click the "Get" button to add it to your library. It’s that easy! This strategy has not only attracted gamers but also helped developers gain visibility for their titles. Many indie developers have seen significant boosts in sales and recognition after their game was featured as a free title on the Epic Games Store. So, keep an eye on the Epic Games Store every Thursday – you never know what awesome game you might find!
Exclusive Titles
If you're looking for something you can't find anywhere else, the Epic Games Store often has exclusive titles that you won't see on other platforms, at least not right away. Epic Games has been known to secure timed exclusives for certain games, meaning they're only available on their platform for a specific period before potentially launching on other stores like Steam or GOG. This strategy helps Epic Games attract players who are eager to get their hands on the latest and greatest games. These exclusives can range from highly anticipated AAA titles to smaller indie gems. For example, games like "Metro Exodus" and "Borderlands 3" initially launched exclusively on the Epic Games Store. While some gamers might find timed exclusives frustrating, they do offer a unique opportunity to play certain games before anyone else. Plus, it encourages competition in the PC gaming market, which can ultimately benefit gamers by driving innovation and better deals. To stay in the loop about exclusive releases, keep an eye on the Epic Games Store's news section and social media channels. You never know when the next big exclusive might drop!
Developer-Friendly Revenue Split
Here’s a win-win for everyone! The Epic Games Store offers a more generous revenue split to developers compared to some other platforms. Epic Games typically takes only 12% of the revenue, while the developer keeps the remaining 88%. This is a significant advantage for developers, especially indie studios, who can use the extra income to fund future projects, expand their teams, or simply keep their businesses afloat. By offering a more favorable revenue split, Epic Games incentivizes developers to release their games on their platform. This leads to a more diverse and interesting game library for players. It also fosters innovation, as developers have more resources to take risks and experiment with new ideas. The 88/12 revenue split is one of the key reasons why many developers have chosen to launch their games exclusively on the Epic Games Store. It allows them to earn more money from their hard work and passion, which ultimately benefits the entire gaming community. So, when you buy a game on the Epic Games Store, you're not only getting a great gaming experience but also supporting the developers who made it possible!
Navigating the Epic Games Store
Alright, so you're convinced that the Epic Games Store is worth checking out. But how do you actually use it? Let's walk through the basics:
Creating an Account
First things first, you'll need an Epic Games account. Head over to the Epic Games website or download the Epic Games Launcher. Click on the "Sign Up" button and follow the instructions. You can sign up using your email address, or you can link your account to other services like Facebook, Google, or PlayStation Network. Once you've created your account, you'll be able to access all the features of the Epic Games Store, including claiming free games, buying new titles, and managing your game library. Make sure to choose a strong password and enable two-factor authentication for added security. This will help protect your account from unauthorized access and keep your personal information safe. Creating an account is quick and easy, and it's the first step to unlocking all the awesome games and deals that the Epic Games Store has to offer. So, what are you waiting for? Sign up today and start building your gaming library!
Downloading and Installing the Launcher
To access the Epic Games Store, you'll need to download and install the Epic Games Launcher. This is the application that allows you to browse the store, purchase games, download them, and launch them. You can find the launcher on the Epic Games website. Simply click on the "Download" button and follow the instructions for your operating system (Windows or macOS). Once the launcher is downloaded, double-click the installer file to begin the installation process. Follow the on-screen prompts to choose an installation location and complete the installation. After the launcher is installed, you can launch it from your desktop or start menu. Sign in with your Epic Games account, and you'll be ready to start exploring the store. The launcher also includes features like cloud saves, automatic updates, and a friends list, making it easy to stay connected with your gaming buddies. So, download the Epic Games Launcher today and get ready to dive into the world of Epic Games!
Browsing the Store
Once you've got the launcher up and running, it's time to explore the Epic Games Store! The store is organized into different sections, including featured games, new releases, popular titles, and free games. You can browse these sections to discover new games or use the search bar to find a specific title. When you click on a game, you'll be taken to its store page, where you can find more information about the game, including its description, screenshots, trailers, and system requirements. You can also read reviews from other players to get a sense of whether the game is right for you. If you decide to purchase a game, simply click the "Buy Now" button and follow the instructions to complete your purchase. The Epic Games Store accepts a variety of payment methods, including credit cards, PayPal, and Epic Games Wallet. Once you've purchased a game, it will be added to your library, and you can download and install it at any time. So, take some time to browse the store and discover your next favorite game!
Tips and Tricks for Epic Games Store Users
Want to get the most out of your Epic Games Store experience? Here are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind:
Enable Two-Factor Authentication
Security first, guys! Enable two-factor authentication on your Epic Games account to protect it from hackers. This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a code from your phone or email in addition to your password when you log in. To enable two-factor authentication, go to your account settings on the Epic Games website and follow the instructions. It's a simple step that can save you a lot of headaches in the long run. With two-factor authentication enabled, even if someone manages to guess your password, they won't be able to access your account without the code from your phone or email. This is especially important if you have a lot of games or payment information stored in your account. So, take a few minutes to enable two-factor authentication and keep your Epic Games account safe and secure!
Check for Free Games Every Week
Seriously, don't forget this one! The Epic Games Store gives away free games every week. Make it a habit to check the store page every Thursday to see what's on offer. Even if you're not interested in the current free game, it's worth claiming it anyway. You never know when you might want to play it in the future. Plus, claiming free games helps you build up a larger game library over time. To claim a free game, simply click the "Get" button on the store page and follow the instructions. The game will be added to your library, and you can download and install it at any time. So, set a reminder to check the Epic Games Store every Thursday and start building your collection of free games!
Take Advantage of Sales and Discounts
The Epic Games Store frequently offers sales and discounts on a wide variety of games. Keep an eye out for these deals, especially during major holidays and seasonal events. You can often find games at deeply discounted prices, allowing you to expand your library without breaking the bank. To stay informed about sales and discounts, sign up for the Epic Games newsletter or follow the Epic Games Store on social media. You can also check the store page regularly to see what's currently on sale. When you find a game that you're interested in, be sure to compare the price to other stores to make sure you're getting the best deal. With a little bit of patience and diligence, you can save a lot of money on games by taking advantage of sales and discounts on the Epic Games Store.
Conclusion
So there you have it, folks! The Epic Games Store is a fantastic platform for PC gamers, offering free games, exclusive titles, and a developer-friendly revenue split. Whether you're a seasoned gamer or just starting out, it's definitely worth checking out. With its regular free game giveaways, exclusive titles, and developer-friendly policies, the Epic Games Store has established itself as a major player in the PC gaming market. So, sign up for an account, download the launcher, and start exploring all the amazing games and deals that the Epic Games Store has to offer. Happy gaming!