How to activate a Steam key
A Steam key is a 15-character code (in XXXXX-XXXXX-XXXXX format) that adds a game permanently to your Steam library. You only need to redeem it once - after that the game belongs to your account and you can install it on any computer you sign in to.
Sign in to Steam
Open the Steam desktop client and sign in. A free account is enough - you do not need Steam Guard or a purchase history to redeem a key.
Open the activation window
In the top menu choose Games → Activate a Product on Steam. On the Steam mobile app it is under the account menu → Redeem Steam key.
Enter the code
Type or paste the 15-character code. Steam ignores the dashes, so you can paste it either way. Accept the subscriber agreement to continue.
Install and play
The game appears in your Library right away. Click Install - the download starts and the key is used up; you do not need to keep it.
When something goes wrong
"This code is not valid"
Almost always a typo: 0 and O, or 1 and I, look alike in some fonts. Copy the code straight from your GMarketplace library instead of typing it.
"This product is not available in your region"
The key is region-locked and your Steam account country does not match. See the region lock guide below - changing your Steam country is not a workaround and can lock your wallet.
"You already own this product"
The game is already on the account you are signed in to. Check whether you are in a second Steam account.
Questions
Does a Steam key expire?
No. An unredeemed key stays valid indefinitely. Once redeemed, the game is tied to that account permanently.
Can I move the game to another account later?
No. Steam ties the game to the account that redeemed the key, and that cannot be undone - so redeem on the account you actually play on.
Do I need the Steam client?
It is the simplest way, but you can also redeem at store.steampowered.com/account/registerkey in a browser.
Next
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