Open and honest communication between gamers and developers on Steam has been a hot topic when it comes to what players are actually purchasing when buying a season pass containing DLC products. Now, Steam has decided to commit to the longevity of the consumers happiness, as they have recently updated their season pass policy to provide consumers with more transparency in what they are purchasing from developers when purchasing a season pass that contains DLC products.

By offering a Season Pass, you are promising future content. In the process of launching a Season Pass you will be asked to commit to a launch timing for each content release in the Season Pass. That launch timing is a commitment to both customers and Steam.

If you aren’t ready to clearly communicate about the content included in each DLC and when each DLC will be ready for launch, you shouldn’t offer a Season Pass on Steam.

Valve is aware that development is never set in stone, so they are allowing developers to alter the release and pre-register dates for DLC products. They also have it set up so that if the developer ever doesn’t release the pre-registered DLC, users are entitled to a full refund.

Under the Steam Distribution Agreement you have provided a warranty to Valve that your DLC will conform in all respects to the descriptions provided to customers, including promised release dates.

Even if there has not yet been a customer complaint, Valve may take action if you delay a DLC more than a quarter (three months) beyond the release window you originally promised.

This allows users to fully refund their entire season pass if the promised product is unreleased by the developer. All of these changes allow for a more open and transparent experience for all consumers and offers a promising future for everyone involved.