Full Breakdown
Quake Champions Moves to a Paid, Steam-Only Model
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event
id Software announced that Quake Champions is transitioning from a free-to-play title to a paid ownership model that will be available exclusively on Steam. The change takes effect on September 23, 2026. Players who previously accessed the game on Steam will retain free access, while those who played on the Microsoft Store must link a Bethesda.net account to a Steam account to receive the paid version at no extra cost.
Background & Context
Since its launch, Quake Champions operated under a free-to-play model with in-game virtual currencies—Platinum and Shards—used to purchase champions, skins, and cosmetics. The game was distributed on both Steam and the Microsoft Store. id Software’s latest update retires the Microsoft Store version and eliminates all virtual currency systems, consolidating the title onto a single platform.
Timeline of Transition
- September 23, 2026 (occurred) – Existing Steam users can continue to play the game from their Steam library without additional payment.
- September 23 – October 7, 2026 (scheduled) – Bethesda will process account linking and access grants for Microsoft Store players.
- After October 7, 2026 – Players who miss the linking window or encounter issues may submit support tickets for case-by-case assistance.
Player Account Migration and Refund Policy
For Microsoft Store players who have not previously linked a Steam account, id Software requires the creation of a Steam account, signing into the existing Bethesda.net account, and completing a web-based linking process. Access to the Steam version is granted within 48 hours of linking. Players who purchased Platinum virtual currency within the 60 days preceding the update will receive a full refund, and purchases made with Japanese yen within six months before September 23, 2026 are eligible for refunds under local law.
Removal of Virtual Currencies and In-Game Purchases
Both Platinum and Shards have been removed from the game system. All items formerly purchasable with these currencies—champions, weapon skins, and costumes—are now available to every player through the Customization menu at no additional charge. Consequently, the game no longer features microtransactions tied to these currencies.
Impact on Player Progression and Access
Player profiles, rankings, and champion progression will persist provided the same Bethesda.net account is used. The transition does not affect skill statistics, and all champions become universally accessible without extra cost. The shift eliminates future in-game purchases, aligning the experience with a traditional paid-ownership model.
Official Statements & Responses
Bethesda Customer Support has been tasked with reviewing cases where account linking does not resolve access within the 48-hour window, offering individualized assistance after the October 7 deadline.
What’s Next
Players who encounter difficulties after the October 7 window are instructed to submit a support ticket via the “Request Steam Access Form.” Bethesda will evaluate each request and may grant Steam access on a case-by-case basis. No further platform expansions have been announced.