So, I guess I complained too quickly. I sent this follow-up message to Steam just before posting my blog post earlier today:

Steam won’t offer a refund even when the software in question doesn’t work properly? I’m sorry, but that isn’t how it works “with most software products.” You can usually obtain a refund if the software doesn’t function as intended, as is the case here.

I guess if this is the way Steam is going to operate, I’ll just be purchasing my games from somewhere else from now on.

Not much of a threat considering how much business Steam probably does on a daily basis. However, less than an hour later, I receive a follow-up message from Steam. Much to my surprise, a full refund was currently processing, accompanied by a reminder that this was a one-time customer service gesture, and that future purchases would have to adhere to the outlined agreement.

Which is perfectly fine, I say. Unless I buy something else from them that doesn’t work. Until then, however, they’ve just managed to retain a customer by breaking their own rules and making me happy. Good for them! Guess I’ll call off the dogs.