Amazon Takes Aim at Steam With “Core” Game Downloads

image

Amazon now offers digitally distributed games outside of the casual realm.

Online retailer Amazon recently added a lineup of “core” games to its digital distribution offerings that should make them more appealing to the hardcore gamer. Amazon launched a casual gaming download service in early 2009 that included hidden-object titles, puzzle games, and the like, but the new core games are more in the “AAA” realm.

The new lineup includes games from Atari, Ubisoft, EA, 1C, Sega and many other publishers. Some of the titles currently available include Dragon Age: Origins, Mass Effect 2, and Dead Space.

Steam is the big player in the digital distribution market right now, but with Amazon’s similar propensity for slashing prices it could become a worthy competitor, or at least a new option for those that like to download their games. Currently, Amazon is holding a sale on core games where multiple titles are going for 50% or more off of their normal prices, while another sale on EA titles is taking 33% off. The sales are offering titles like The Witcher for just $6, which is definitely a good start for Amazon.

Amazon’s core downloads system doesn’t provide the bonus functionality that Steam does, so it won’t replace Valve, but it never hurts to have more outlets to find great gaming deals. Amazon will apparently be one of those now, and with the 2010 holiday season coming up it jumped in at the right time.

Source: Amazon, via Joystiq

Recommended Videos

The Escapist is supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn a small affiliate commission. Learn more
related content
Read Article Rugby 24 Has Been Delayed for a Bizarre Reason
Two poster-style figures throwing a rugby ball in Rugby 24.
Read Article MW3 Season 3 Roadmap Teases New Maps & Crossovers
MW3 Season 3 skins.
Read Article Sony & Marvel Drop Spider-Verse Short Film to Support Youth Mental Health Awareness
Related Content
Read Article Rugby 24 Has Been Delayed for a Bizarre Reason
Two poster-style figures throwing a rugby ball in Rugby 24.
Read Article MW3 Season 3 Roadmap Teases New Maps & Crossovers
MW3 Season 3 skins.
Read Article Sony & Marvel Drop Spider-Verse Short Film to Support Youth Mental Health Awareness