While times have progressed and I admit that steam-hating is the death rattle of the dying breed, I'm pretty sure that steam could have done a better job than WON for online play if it wasnt for all the unnecessary crap and sales pitches it makes. Newer nearly always = better, but a program should do as you tell it, not do what it likes to you! I hate steam. When I get a better puter, and a better connection I'll still hate steam for the same reason I hate Internet Explorer, spyware, adware and all other types of aggresive/invasive ware.
VALVE: Make a steam lite with the online gaming goodness - the 'useful' tat and ill glady give it a shot, or even buy it ffs!