Buying Games with Foreign Currency | Steam's Gift Policy Sparks Debate
Edited By
Tanya Melton
A user from Bhutan has raised questions about purchasing games on Steam using a friend's international debit card. This inquiry comes amid some confusion regarding Steam's gifting policies and regional restrictions. With buyers like this user looking for solutions, the gaming community has chimed in on the matter.
What's the Controversy?
The user wants to buy a game with their friend's card while the friend studies in Sri Lanka. However, they need clarity on whether Steam allows this method and which billing address to use.
Key Issues Raised
Gift Gifting Restrictions: Commenters mentioned that if the game’s price varies significantly between regions, it might be held back from gifting or delayed for several months.
Address Verification: The preferred advice is to use the billing address tied to the friend's debit card, which is in Bhutan, rather than their current address in Sri Lanka.
Region Locking: A vital consideration is ensuring the game isn't region-locked between Bhutan and Sri Lanka.
Community Perspectives
Gamers are generally supportive of this method. One commenter stated, "Your friend can buy the game and gift it to you, just make sure the game isn’t region-locked between your countries." Another remarked, "Refer to the Steam support pages for any thresholds on gifting restrictions."
"Steam cares more about the billing address than where he’s physically located."
— Commenter
Overall, sentiments vary from hopeful to cautious. Many believe it's workable as long as guidelines are followed.
Highlights of the Debate
💡 Gifting Method Feasibility: Seems promising if done right.
⚠️ Risk of Delays: Potential holds on gifted items due to regional price differences.
🔍 Billing Address Importance: Critical to use the right address for transaction success.
Can gamers truly circumvent regional restrictions by using this method? This discussion reflects the ongoing tension between global access and localized gaming policies.