I just requested a steam refund, to try and send a message. I have no playtime, I bought it on sale for $5, but this is gross. I will stop “buying” steam games entirely if this starts happening on a regular basis.
Update: that was fast, my refund request was rejected because it has been “more than 2 weeks since my purchase”. I opened a new refund request with much more pointed language and told them it’ll be the most expensive $5 they ever stole. I’m fit to sue over this, it’s not even about the money. I have a large steam library and I do not want them to get away with this.
I don't think they even read what you write for the refund request if its outside of their policy. Either that or they are OK with losing over 1000 EUR in sales and counting over a 7 EUR refund and never bother to respond with anything that doesn't look like an automated message.
I guess you're in the US? (Judging from the use of $ and suing being the next step of escalation)
Would be interesting if individuals with Steam accounts in EU/UK/AU who "bought" the game and request a refund also report their experience, considering the differences in consumer protection.
No. It's an automated response.
You will have to go the legal way or divert public attention toward your case somehow.
A friend of mine got a permanent ban on Steam for asking a gender question. It was the last of many bans, most unjustified and ridiculous.
Steam is not your friendly platform. It's hostile to customers. If you're positive you're correct and can afford the trouble and cost go the legal route.
Update: that was fast, my refund request was rejected because it has been “more than 2 weeks since my purchase”. I opened a new refund request with much more pointed language and told them it’ll be the most expensive $5 they ever stole. I’m fit to sue over this, it’s not even about the money. I have a large steam library and I do not want them to get away with this.