Can’t Click Games in Family Library on Steam: Solutions and Tips

Published on November 18, 2024

Steam’s Family Library Sharing feature is a fantastic way for families to share their game libraries with each other. However, it’s not without its quirks. One common issue users encounter is the inability to click or access certain games in a shared library. This problem can be frustrating, especially when you’re eager to jump into a game you’ve been waiting to play.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the reasons behind the “cant click games Family Library Steam” issue and provide step-by-step solutions to resolve it. Whether you’re a parent sharing games with your kids or a gamer borrowing from a friend, this article has you covered.

Understanding Steam Family Library Sharing

What Is Steam Family Library Sharing?

Steam Family Library Sharing allows users to share their game libraries with up to five accounts and ten devices. The feature ensures that multiple family members or friends can access and play games from one another’s libraries without needing to purchase duplicate copies.

Key Features

Share your game library with trusted accounts.
Access shared games on authorized devices.
Save individual progress and achievements per user.

However, this feature comes with limitations, such as:

Only one person can play a shared library at a time.
Some games may not be sharable due to licensing restrictions.

Common Issues with Steam Family Library Sharing

The issue of not being able to click or access certain games in a shared library can arise due to various factors. Let’s break down the most common causes:

1. Licensing Restrictions

Some games on Steam have DRM (Digital Rights Management) restrictions that prevent them from being shared. This could be a developer or publisher decision.

2. Account Ownership

The primary account holder must be online and have shared the library correctly. If they’re playing another game or haven’t enabled sharing properly, you might not be able to access the games.

3. Game-Specific Restrictions

Certain multiplayer or online-only games might not be sharable due to server-side limitations or subscription requirements.

4. Steam Client Issues

Outdated software or temporary glitches in the Steam client can lead to problems accessing games.

5. Device Authorization

Family Library Sharing requires proper authorization of devices. If the device you’re using isn’t authorized, the games won’t be accessible.

How to Fix the “Can’t Click Games Family Library” Issue

Here’s a step-by-step guide to troubleshoot and resolve the problem:

Step 1: Check Game Eligibility

Not all games are sharable due to DRM or licensing restrictions. To verify:

Visit the game’s Steam store page.
Look for any notes regarding Family Library Sharing limitations.
Confirm with the primary account holder if the game is sharable.

Step 2: Verify Device Authorization

Ensure that the device you’re using is authorized for Family Library Sharing:

Log in to the primary account on the shared device.
Go to Steam > Settings > Family > Authorize Library Sharing on This Computer.
Log back into your own account and check if the games are accessible.

Step 3: Confirm Internet Connectivity

Family Library Sharing requires an active internet connection for authentication:

Ensure both the primary account holder and the user account have internet access.
Restart your modem or router if connectivity issues persist.

Step 4: Restart Steam Client

Sometimes, a simple restart of the Steam client can resolve temporary glitches:

Exit Steam completely.
Relaunch the application and log in to your account.
Check if the games are now clickable.

Step 5: Update Steam Client

An outdated Steam client may cause functionality issues:

Open Steam and go to Steam > Check for Steam Client Updates.
Download and install any available updates.

Step 6: Verify Account Activity

The primary account holder must not be playing a game from their library while someone else tries to access it:

Ask the primary account holder to log out of any game they’re playing.
Retry accessing the shared game.

Advanced Troubleshooting Tips

If the basic steps don’t work, try these advanced methods:

Tip 1: Reauthorize Family Library Sharing

Sometimes reauthorizing can resolve hidden conflicts:

Log into the primary account on the shared device.
Disable Family Library Sharing by unchecking the authorization.
Re-enable the feature and reauthorize the device.

Tip 2: Clear Steam Cache

Corrupted cache files can cause accessibility issues:

Open Steam and go to Steam > Settings > Downloads.
Click Clear Download Cache.
Restart Steam and check if the issue persists.

Tip 3: Check for Software Conflicts

Antivirus or firewall software may block Steam’s functionality:

Temporarily disable your antivirus or firewall.
Test Steam to see if the issue is resolved.
Add Steam as an exception in your security software if needed.

Tip 4: Contact Steam Support

If all else fails, reach out to Steam Support:

Visit the Steam Support page.
Submit a ticket detailing your issue.
Provide screenshots and steps you’ve already tried for quicker resolution.

Preventing Future Issues with Steam Family Library Sharing

To ensure a smoother experience in the future, follow these best practices:

1. Communicate with Shared Users

Establish rules about game access times to avoid conflicts when multiple users want to play.

2. Regularly Update Steam

Keep your Steam client and operating system up-to-date to avoid compatibility issues.

3. Review Shared Library Periodically

Remove inactive users and update device authorizations as needed.

4. Understand Game-Specific Restrictions

Before purchasing a game, check if it supports Family Library Sharing.

Alternatives to Steam Family Library Sharing

If Family Library Sharing proves too restrictive, consider these alternatives:

1. Steam Remote Play

Use Steam’s Remote Play feature to stream games from one device to another within the same network.

2. Game Bundles

Some games offer multiplayer or additional licenses in bundles, allowing more than one person to play without sharing.

3. Discounted Game Purchases

Take advantage of Steam sales or bundle deals to purchase games individually.

Conclusion

The “can’t click games in Family Library Steam” issue can be a frustrating experience, but with the right troubleshooting steps, you can quickly resolve it. By understanding the limitations of Family Library Sharing, maintaining open communication, and keeping your Steam client up-to-date, you can enjoy a seamless gaming experience with your loved ones.

Steam’s Family Library Sharing remains a valuable feature, offering access to a vast library of games for multiple users. With this guide, you’re now equipped to tackle any accessibility issues and make the most of your shared library. Happy gaming!