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Unraveling steam delistings: how to get your games back

Steam Delisting Sparks Controversy | Gamers Seek Alternatives

By

Derek Johnson

Apr 30, 2025, 06:08 AM

Edited By

Akira Tanaka

Snappy read

A computer screen showing a list of Steam games with some marked as removed, depicting the delisting process
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A wave of confusion engulfed the gaming community as many realized that classic titles were no longer available on Steam. Following the release of their Definitive Editions, key games fell victim to delisting. Fans express frustration, with some looking for ways to access these nostalgic titles legally.

What Happened?

Recently, classic games were removed from Steam, leaving many to wonder about their availability. The consensus among gamers is that this action is linked to licensing issues. As one comment noted, "License issue and they want to sell their remaster. That's it." This has raised eyebrows, especially given the high price of keys from grey markets.

Available Options

While not on Steam anymore, these titles can still be purchased directly from the Rockstar store. One user mentioned, "Theyโ€™re still for sale on the Rockstar store," stressing it as the only legal route. However, others pointed out that it might not always be on sale.

Sentiment Among Gamers

There appears to be a mix of frustration and nostalgia among players regarding the removal of these classics. A significant theme in the forums reveals:

  • Frustration with delisting: "Greed is the reason the trilogy got delisted from Steam."

  • Exploration of alternatives: Many ponder whether to buy from grey markets or pirate the titles, as noted by one comment, "Keys or sail the seas."

  • Sentimentality for past purchases: One fan fondly remembered, "I got the trilogy for ยฃ back in 2010, never installed them."

"Only in Rockstar store not sure if it ever goes to sale." โ€“ Concerned gamer

Key Takeaways

  • ๐Ÿ›’ The classic games are unavailable on Steam but can be found on the Rockstar store.

  • โš–๏ธ Players link delisting to licensing issues and plans for remasters.

  • ๐ŸŽฎ There is mixed sentiment among the gaming community, reflecting both nostalgia and disappointment.

The gaming community continues to navigate this situation, as frustration mounts over the unavailability of beloved classics. As players seek out their options, the implications of such corporate decisions remain a hot topic.