What Happens When You Buy a Duplicate Game on Steam?

Learn what occurs if you purchase a game on Steam that you already own and explore your options for refunds and gifts.

1,232 views

If you buy a game on Steam that you already own, the platform will notify you during the purchase process. You cannot purchase the game as a gift for yourself, but you have the option to buy it as a gift for someone else. If the transaction goes through accidentally, you can request a refund, provided it meets Steam’s refund policy criteria. Double-check your library and review your plans if you intended to purchase the game for another account.

FAQs & Answers

  1. Can I purchase a game on Steam if I already own it? No, if you attempt to buy a game you already own on Steam, the platform will notify you and prevent the transaction from processing as a gift for your own account.
  2. What should I do if I accidentally bought a game I already own on Steam? If you accidentally complete a purchase for a game you already own, you can request a refund as long as the purchase meets Steam's refund policy criteria.
  3. Is it possible to gift a game I already own on Steam? You cannot gift a game that you already own to yourself, but you can purchase it as a gift for someone else.
  4. How do I check if I already own a game on Steam before purchasing? Before making a purchase, it’s advisable to double-check your Steam library to ensure you do not already own the game.

Watch More

For more insights into Steam's purchasing policies and gaming tips, check out our related videos. Understanding refund procedures, game sharing, and managing your library can enhance your gaming experience. Dive deeper into our content to become a more informed Steam user!

  1. What Happens When You Buy a Game You Already Own on Steam? Learn what to do if you accidentally purchase a game you already own on Steam and how to buy it as a gift instead.
  2. How to Add Non-Steam Games to Your Steam Library Learn how to add games purchased outside of Steam to your library effortlessly.
  3. What to Expect When Buying a Game on Steam: A Complete Guide Learn what happens when you buy a game from Steam, including library access and updates.