Buzz
Steam now offers a feature that lets you verify the exact storage space a game requires before installation. This ensures you can confirm whether the installation will succeed without navigating through complex steps or scrutinizing the fine print on the game’s store page. Currently available in a beta version of Steam, this update also enhances your ability to manage saved games on Steam Cloud. Below, we’ll guide you on installing the beta and explain how to use these new features.
Steps to Upgrade to Steam’s Beta Version
Before proceeding, note that this Steam beta build includes features still in the testing phase. You might encounter crashes or unexpected issues if you opt into the beta release cycle.
To access the beta build, launch Steam and log into your account. Navigate to the Steam menu in the top-left corner, then select Settings. In the left pane, click Account, and in the right pane, under Beta participation, click Change. Choose Steam Beta Update and confirm by clicking OK. This will return you to the settings menu, where you can finalize by clicking OK again.
To complete the update to Steam’s latest beta build, go to the menu bar and select Steam > Check for Steam Client Updates. Steam will then update to the newest beta version, enabling the additional features we’re interested in.
How to Verify the Storage Requirements for a Steam Game
After restarting the app and logging back into your account, head to the Library tab in Steam. Use the left pane to find any game that isn’t currently installed on your device. If a game’s description page displays a blue Install button, it means the game is in your library but not installed. Beside this button, you’ll find the Space Required section, which details the storage space needed for the game.
This allows you to verify if your computer has sufficient free space and proceed with the installation when ready.
How to Identify Game Save Conflicts on Steam Cloud
After installing and playing a game multiple times, it’s crucial to verify if your saved games are properly stored on Steam. A conflict in save files could result in losing your game progress. For instance, if you’ve defeated a challenging boss and saved your progress, Steam creates a backup of your save file. Even if you reformat your PC later, you can reinstall the game via Steam without losing your achievements.
Occasionally, due to internet connectivity problems or other glitches, the save file on your computer might not sync with the one on Steam. This discrepancy could mean your computer records your victory over the boss, but Steam hasn’t updated this information. Failing to resolve this conflict might force you to replay the boss battle.
To avoid such issues, always ensure your game saves are synced with Steam Cloud. With the beta build, this process is straightforward: Navigate to the Library tab and select any installed game. If you spot a cloud icon with a checkmark next to the Play button, it confirms that your local and Steam Cloud save files are in sync, and no action is needed.
If the files don’t match, a cloud icon with an exclamation mark will appear. Hovering your mouse over it reveals the message: Some files conflict with versions in the Steam Cloud. Click to resolve. Click the icon to open a new window displaying your saved games. Choose the version you wish to upload to Steam to fix the issue and safeguard your in-game progress.
