Although Steam remains the popular choice for PC gaming, it is not the sole platform available. With platforms like GOG.com, Origin, Epic Games Store, and UPlay, gamers now have a wide array of options to consider. According to Newzoo’s latest market revenue forecasts, the global games market is expected to generate an astounding revenue of approximately $176 billion in 2021, with the PC market alone valued at $36 billion.
Back in 2003, Valve Corporation introduced Steam, revolutionizing the gaming market and eventually becoming the largest digital distribution platform for PC gaming. With its vast library of 50,000 games, Steam serves around 100 million monthly active users, offering features like browsing, purchasing, reviewing, playing, and discussing PC games in one convenient location. Over time, Steam has fostered a thriving community. Let’s explore some interesting facts about this distribution service and its parent company:
Steam covers over 70% of the digital gaming marketplace. There are more than 150 million Steam accounts. Valve, the parent company, developed its own operating system called SteamOS. The company ranks among the most profitable in the US gaming industry.
To enhance the gaming experience, Valve released a dedicated controller called the Steam Controller.
Approximately 5,000-10,000 games are added to Steam each year. Steam is so popular that 47% of all game publishers utilize it to showcase their titles. However, despite these fascinating facts, Steam’s dominance is gradually diminishing due to the emergence of new players in the market.
Additionally, new trends have emerged, such as brick-and-mortar retailers offering game cards and codes for digital platforms, as well as the growth of cloud gaming services like PS Now. Not to mention, the console gaming sector has been dominated by next-gen consoles like PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X, which continuously push the boundaries with technological advancements and innovations.
Evolution from Established Companies
GOG.com, previously known as Good Old Games, was among the first platforms attempting to challenge Steam’s authority in the PC games market. As its name implies, it serves as a go-to destination for both older and new video games. What sets it apart is its DRM-free approach, allowing consumers to install games anywhere and as many times as necessary without redundant checks. GOG.com has gained significant traction in the game distribution market, particularly since the rise of the work-from-home concept.
Epic Games, the creators of the popular game Fortnite, have entered the digital distribution market as new contenders. The Epic Games Store is a work in progress, but it possesses the potential to rival top-notch platforms like Steam. Origin from Electronic Arts and UPlay from Ubisoft are dedicated platforms primarily focused on running games published by their respective companies, although they do offer a few additional features.
Rise of Crypto Gaming Market
Over the past two decades, the gaming market has witnessed tremendous growth, which is expected to accelerate even further amidst the ongoing global pandemic and the trend of remote work. In addition to video games, the online gaming industry encompasses various sectors, including casino gaming, online betting, and gambling, all of which have experienced significant expansion.
Another emerging trend is the utilization of cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin (BCH), Ethereum (ETH), and Litecoin (LTC) for online betting and gambling. The crypto gambling market is gaining popularity due to the accessibility of blockchain technology and increasing crypto literacy. From online slots and live dealer games to sports betting and online table games, there are diverse options available for users to engage with.
However, it is evident that Steam is here to stay for the foreseeable future. As the undeniable leader in the PC video games distribution market, it would require significant effort from other platforms to gain substantial control over the marketplace.
