How digital game keys work
A game key is a code that unlocks the game on your account. Here's how you get it, how you activate it, and what to do if something goes wrong.
A digital game key is a code of letters and numbers that unlocks a game on your account, whether that's Steam, Xbox, PlayStation, Nintendo or another platform. Once redeemed, you own the game just as if you had bought it in the platform's own store.
From purchase to playing in four steps
- 1Pick the game and the platform you play on. The platform is on the product page and in the variant name, for example Steam or Xbox.
- 2Pay. The code arrives by email, usually within 5 to 10 minutes, and it's also on your order page.
- 3Redeem the code on your account: in Steam under 'Activate a Product', in the Microsoft Store or Xbox app on Xbox, or in the Nintendo eShop on Switch.
- 4The game appears in your library and can be downloaded straight away.
Platform and region matter most
A code only works on the platform it was made for. A Steam code can't be used on Xbox, and an Xbox code can't be used on PlayStation. Some codes are also locked to a region, such as Europe. The product page always says where the code can be activated and whether it works in Norway. Check this before you pay to avoid surprises.
Why is it cheaper than the platform's own store?
Publishers sell keys to stores in bulk, and prices vary between markets and over time. That's why the same game can cost less as a key than in Steam or the Microsoft Store on the same day. The game you get is the same. For what to look out for to shop safely, we have a separate guide on cheap game keys.
If the code doesn't work
- 1Check that you're signed in to the right account on the right platform.
- 2Copy the code straight from the email or order page instead of typing it, so you don't mix up O and 0 or I and 1.
- 3If you get an error, take a screenshot and contact customer service with your order number. We'll help you with a new code or a refund if the code can't be used.
