Steam is currently experimenting with a new feature known as Steam Families within the Steam Beta Client. This feature allows users to share their game library with a select group of individuals. Steam Families serves as the replacement for the previous Family Sharing and Family View features. As of now, a specific release date for this feature has not been officially announced.
With the introduction of this new feature, users are able to not only share games but also establish parental controls through a single menu interface. Users have the ability to add up to five other individuals to a designated Steam Family. Members within this group have access to the shareable games within the libraries of other group members. These shared games will be conveniently located in a newly created subsection referred to as the 'family library'. It is worth noting that a significant portion of the games available on Steam can be shared among family members.
It is important to highlight that individual users still maintain ownership of their own personal game titles. When a user plays a game that has been shared with them, they are able to play even if the original owner is currently online. Additionally, while playing a shared game, users will have their own unique save file and can earn Steam Achievements. In instances where multiple users within the same family group wish to play the same game simultaneously, each user must possess a separate copy within their shared library.
Furthermore, users also have the capability to establish parental controls within their Steam Family. Within the group, accounts are designated as either 'adult' or 'child'. Adult accounts have the authority to manage invitations and impose restrictions on child accounts. Adults can control and limit the amount of time children spend playing games, reset their passwords, and restrict their access to the Steam store. Children who wish to purchase new games must first seek approval from adults within the group through the application.
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