Ethan Crossfield 
Steam’s latest Free Weekend promotion gives players full temporary access to two very different games: the large-scale military shooter Squad and the single-player management title Gas Station Simulator. Both are available to try until September 28 at 10 a.m. PT/1 p.m. ET. Players who want to continue afterward can purchase either game, with discounts listed for a limited period.
What changed on Steam this weekend
The promotion is split between one multiplayer experience and one single-player simulator, so the best choice depends on how you want to play. Squad focuses on coordinated 50v50 battles, where communication, battlefield roles, vehicles, and proximity voice chat are central to the experience. It is designed around teamwork rather than a traditional campaign, making it a better fit for players who want organized online matches and are willing to learn the responsibilities of a squad.
Gas Station Simulator offers a much quieter but more structured alternative. Players take over a neglected desert gas station, clean it up, repair facilities, serve customers, manage supplies, hire employees, and expand the business. Driving, deliveries, vehicle maintenance, and unexpected events add variety beyond operating the fuel pumps.
Who should play each free game
Squad is aimed at players who enjoy realistic military multiplayer games and do not mind relying on teammates. Its emphasis on medics, riflemen, squad leaders, vehicle crews, and communication means individual shooting skill is only part of the experience. The game holds an 84% Very Positive rating on Steam from more than 80,000 reviews, according to the supplied information.
Gas Station Simulator is the more accessible option for players seeking a solo management game. Its core story takes roughly 12 hours, although additional activities and expansion opportunities provide more to do after the main progression. The title has an 87% Very Positive Steam rating from more than 10,000 reviews. Its gradual upgrade loop makes it suitable for players who prefer improving a business over competing against other players.
What happens after the free period ends
Access through the promotion ends on September 28 at 10 a.m. PT/1 p.m. ET. After that point, continued play requires purchasing the relevant game. Squad is listed at 50% off until October 1, dropping from $39.99 to $19.99. Gas Station Simulator is listed at 55% off until September 28, dropping from $19.99 to $8.99.
The different discount windows matter for anyone planning to test both games before buying. Players interested in Squad have additional time to decide after the free access period ends, while the Gas Station Simulator discount expires on the same date as the promotion.
What players should know
- Both games are free to access through September 28 at 10 a.m. PT/1 p.m. ET.
- Squad is a multiplayer 50v50 military shooter with no traditional campaign.
- Gas Station Simulator is a single-player business-management game with an approximately 12-hour core story.
- Squad is discounted to $19.99 until October 1.
- Gas Station Simulator is discounted to $8.99 until September 28.
Steam Free Weekend comparison
| Game | Format | Steam rating | Promotion discount |
|---|---|---|---|
| Squad | 50v50 multiplayer military shooter | 84% Very Positive, over 80,000 reviews | 50% off: $39.99 to $19.99 until October 1 |
| Gas Station Simulator | Single-player simulation | 87% Very Positive, over 10,000 reviews | 55% off: $19.99 to $8.99 until September 28 |
Expert View
This is a useful Steam Free Weekend lineup because the two games serve clearly different audiences. Squad is the stronger choice for players looking for demanding team-based multiplayer, while Gas Station Simulator offers a more approachable solo progression loop. The short trial window favors players who already know which style they prefer, but the listed discounts make both games reasonable purchases if the free sessions leave a positive impression.
