This analysis describes what Steam's agreement states, permits, or reserves. It does not constitute a legal determination about enforceability. Regulatory applicability and practical outcomes may vary by jurisdiction, enforcement context, and individual circumstances. Read our methodology
This clause establishes the mechanism by which Valve can alter the contractual relationship with users without requiring affirmative consent. It places the burden on users to monitor changes and either accept them through continued use or discontinue service.
The updated agreement no longer explicitly discloses that Steam Wallet funds held by Japanese users will expire six months after being added, or that expiration dates can be reviewed in the Steam Wallet. The removal of this disclosure eliminates the transparency mechanism previously available to Japanese subscribers regarding fund expiration timelines and monitoring options. Japanese law may still impose expiration requirements on stored funds regardless of contractual disclosure, but the agreement no longer notifies users of this expiration mechanism.
View change record →The explicit language about unilateral amendment with 'reasonable' notice was removed, though service modification rights appear in the new 'Valve's Right to Modify or Terminate Services' provision without comparable notice protections.
View full change record →Users are bound by modified terms upon continued use of the service following Valve's notification of changes. The provision does not specify a grace period for review or require affirmative acceptance before modifications take effect.
How other platforms handle this
With respect to GWS Services, SecOpS Services, Looker (original) Services, and Cloud Identity Services...material updates to this Agreement will only take effect if and when Customer's Order Term renews.
Material changes to the Agreement will become effective 30 days after notice is given, except to the extent the changes apply to new Services or functionality or are required by applicable law or court order, in which case they will be effective immediately.
These terms may change from time to time. Notice of material changes will be posted on this page with an updated effective date...however, you are responsible for regularly checking this page for any changes.
"Valve reserves the right to change this Agreement, including the Rules of Use, Subscription Terms, and related agreements at any time... Your continued use of Steam after an update to the Agreement or Subscription Terms is effective will be deemed to be your acceptance of the updated Agreement. Valve will provide you with notice of any modifications... however, you are responsible for regularly checking these terms.Excerpt from Steam's Subscriber Agreement
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This clause establishes the mechanism by which Valve can alter the contractual relationship with users without requiring affirmative consent. It places the burden on users to monitor changes and either accept them through continued use or discontinue service.
Users are bound by modified terms upon continued use of the service following Valve's notification of changes. The provision does not specify a grace period for review or require affirmative acceptance before modifications take effect.
ConductAtlas has identified this type of provision across 288 platforms. See the full comparison.
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