I don't understand this choice either. I for one never liked using Steam because they force their users to keep the application 'On' even when there is no need. I stopped using it completely when I had to enter a password they sent to my mail every time I logged in (some kind of safety I guess).
Anyway, this mod is great and being unable to use it sucks badly.
One thing I'd like to know though, does anyone know if the author allow alternative links?