Ethan Crossfield 
Steam users have until August 20 at 1 PM EST to add Deponia to their libraries permanently through the platform’s Free-to-Keep promotion. The 2012 point-and-click adventure costs nothing during the offer, making it an easy pickup for players who enjoy puzzle-solving, comedy, and retro-styled games.
What is changing for Steam users?
Deponia is available at a 100% discount, so claiming it works like a normal Steam purchase with a $0 price. Once added during the promotional window, the game remains in the user’s library after the offer ends. That makes this promotion different from Steam’s free-to-play weekends, which only provide temporary access.
The deadline is August 20 at 1 PM EST, giving players a limited period to complete the claim. Even users who are not ready to play immediately can secure the game now and return to it later.
Who should consider playing Deponia?
Deponia follows Rufus, a character living among enormous piles of trash while trying to improve his social position. His plans change after Goal, a wealthy woman, falls from the sky. Rufus initially sees an opportunity to profit by returning her to her husband, but the situation becomes more personal as the story develops.
The game is built around classic point-and-click mechanics. Players explore 2D environments, collect objects, speak with non-player characters, and combine clues to solve puzzles. Its tone and structure have drawn comparisons to adventure staples such as Monkey Island and Day of the Tentacle, while Daedalic Entertainment has openly acknowledged the influence of Lucasfilm-style adventures.
A standard playthrough takes roughly eight hours without a guide. Deponia originally launched on August 6, 2012, and currently holds a 77% mostly positive rating on Steam. Its recent reviews are stronger at 90% positive, suggesting that the game continues to find an audience despite its age.
What comes next after the free claim?
Players who enjoy Rufus’ first adventure can continue with Chaos on Deponia, Goodbye, Deponia, and Deponia Doomsday. The sequels keep the same central character and point-and-click approach, offering several more games for anyone who wants to follow the complete story.
The Complete Journey is listed at $3 until August 17, compared with its typical $30 price, and provides access to the first two sequels. Deponia Doomsday is sold separately. Players who would rather wait can add the remaining games to their Steam Wishlists and watch for future discounts.
Another Steam promotion currently offers NBA 2K26 as a free-to-play title, but that offer ends on August 14. Afterward, Deponia is expected to stand out as Steam’s main limited-time freebie in this promotion cycle.
What players should know
- Deponia is free to claim on Steam at a 100% discount.
- The game remains permanently in the library after it is claimed.
- The promotion ends on August 20 at 1 PM EST.
- It is a point-and-click puzzle adventure developed and published by Daedalic Entertainment.
- A playthrough takes roughly eight hours without a guide.
- The Complete Journey is on sale for $3 until August 17, while Deponia Doomsday must be purchased separately.
Expert View
Deponia is a worthwhile claim for Steam users who appreciate traditional adventure games, especially because there is no cost and the promotion keeps it in the library permanently. Its older design and puzzle-focused pacing may not suit players seeking modern action, but the compact campaign, distinctive humor, and positive audience response make it a low-risk addition. Anyone interested should claim it before the stated deadline rather than relying on the offer being extended.
