Resident Evil 5 Games for Windows Live

GFWL isn't closed (and won't be) and far from all games are patched.

RE5 now contains both GFWL & Steamworks, because Capcom. (GFWL is used for save games import).

There's also GFWL-only version of RE5 in Betas, which is preferable afaik. (expect for DLC)

If you haven't found so far: There is a small mod which allows you to play and start the game without installing GfWL. The first time I launched he also tried to install it and as I cancel he couldn't start the game. I then found the mod and so far there have been no problems. Technically it is not allowed so you are using at your own risk. But as far as I know Capcom knows of the mod and hasn't said anything about.

But it is correct that depending on what you prefer the GfWL is recommanded. If you want to have local co-op for instance you need the GfWL version accessible through the beta hub. If you want to play the DLC you'll need the Steam version.