How to Play ARC Raiders Using a Steam Account: What the Account Format Is and How It Works

2026-01-19 10:56:00 | Written by Alfred

ARC Raiders can be purchased on Steam in two different formats: digital key (Key) or Steam account (Account).

Many players are surprised to see that the Account format is noticeably cheaper than a standard key and are not always sure why.In this guide, we explain what it means to buy ARC Raiders as a Steam account, how this format works, how to use it step by step, and what you should know before choosing this option.

What Does Buying ARC Raiders as a “Steam Account” Mean?

When you buy ARC Raiders in Account format, you do not receive a key to activate on your personal Steam account.
Instead, you get:

• A separate Steam account
• With ARC Raiders already activated in the library
• Ready to download and play immediately

This is a completely different model from traditional Steam keys.

Why the Account Format Is Cheaper Than a Key

The lower price is not accidental. It exists for clear reasons:

• The game is not activated on your main Steam account
• ARC Raiders is tied to a specific Steam account
• The game cannot be transferred between accounts

In exchange, you get full access to the game at a significantly lower cost.If you want a deeper explanation of the differences between both formats, we recommend this detailed guide: Steam Key vs Steam Account: which one should you choose when buying PC games.

How to Use a Steam Account to Play ARC Raiders (Step by Step)

The process is simple, but it should be done correctly:

1. You receive the login details for the Steam account
2. You log into Steam using that account
3. ARC Raiders is already visible in the library
4. You download the game
5. You play normally using that account

No keys, no additional activation steps, and no extra software required.

Can You Play ARC Raiders on Your Main Steam Account?

No.

ARC Raiders will remain linked exclusively to the provided Steam account. This means:

• The game is not added to your personal Steam library
• Progress is saved on that account
• You must always use the same account to play

Understanding this point before buying is essential.

Is It Safe to Play Using a Steam Account?

Yes, as long as the account is used correctly:

• Keep the login credentials safe
• Do not share the account
• Do not change region or account details unnecessarily

The Steam Account format is widely used on PC and works without issues when handled properly.

Key vs Steam Account: Main Differences

Steam Key

• Activated on your personal Steam account
• Usually more expensive
• The game stays permanently in your library

Steam Account

• Game already activated
• Lower price
• Played from a separate Steam account

The right choice depends on whether you value convenience or maximum savings.

When Is the Steam Account Format a Good Choice?

Buying ARC Raiders as a Steam account makes sense if:

• You only plan to play ARC Raiders
• You want the lowest possible price
• You do not mind using a separate Steam account
• You are comfortable keeping progress on that account

For many players, this is the most cost-effective option.

Where to Compare ARC Raiders Prices (Key vs Account)

If you want to compare Steam key and Steam account prices for ARC Raiders, you can do so directly on the game’s main page, where offers are clearly separated by format:  Compare ARC Raiders PC prices