Can You Use a VPN to Buy Steam Games in Another Region?

Smuggling steam games via VPN

The idea of deploying a VPN to get better deals on Steam games has been fascinating people for years. However, the topic is a subject to a number of controversies as well. You see, purchasing a game under a foreign IP isn’t that hard, but being able to actually play it is an entirely different question.

The system can easily be fooled by temporarily connecting to a Russian VPN server, but the chances are high the system spots you when trying to activate it. Steam’s terms of use strictly forbids using IP proxying or other methods to disguise your physical location. Not only that but each player account is linked to the country that you are a resident of, which means that you cannot launch a game in the U.S. if it says ‘Russia only’.

But what about using a VPN while playing on Steam to maintain the facade? That cannot be said for sure. Many users are boasting that they have been using VPNs alongside Steam for years and have managed to avoid the banhammer. Others, however, protest that the system quickly catches on and your account will be put on ice when you least expect it. All we can say for sure is to avoid games that incorporate region-locked matchmaking – multiplayer shooters, for example – because they will increase the risk of getting busted.

Other ways VPNs can enhance your Steam experience

We don’t explicitly encourage anyone to use a VPN while playing on Steam, but if you decide to do so then be sure to create a separate account to lessen the blow of a possible ban. However, it should be noted that VPNs in general can elevate the overall gaming experience. By connecting to a reliable server it is possible to circumvent any bandwidth throttling that might be imposed by your ISP, effectively gaining connection speed instead of losing it. Masking your IP is generally helpful for expats in China or those who wish to play anonymously while in school or at work.