Yesterday, Steam updated its Refund Policy to include time spent playing a game in "Advanced Access". This is different from "Early Access", where the game is still in development; Advanced Access allows you to play a preordered game ahead of its full release, usually by paying extra for it. Games such as Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League and the upcoming Frostpunk 2 are examples of this.

Up until recently, Advanced Access did not abide by Steam's normal rules, wherein you have 2 hours (give or take) of playtime before they deny you the ability to refund a game. People were naturally abusing this loophole, cramming hours upon hours of playtime into the short window before launch, then requesting their refund. That time has come to a close.

Quote From Steam

Today we have updated a portion of our Refund Policy regarding pre-purchased titles. This change covers titles that are in pre-purchase and offer “Advanced Access”. Playtime acquired during the Advanced Access period will now count towards the Steam refund period.

What do you think of the news? Have you ever purchased the ability to play in Advanced Access? Let us know in the comments below!