Exploring the Global Landscape of Digital Gaming
Steam undoubtedly reigns as a titan in the realm of digital PC gaming, serving as a critical platform for countless titles. However, the narrative surrounding game distribution is evolving, particularly as other platforms emerge in regions where Steam’s influence is less pronounced. This perspective is championed by Vadim Andreev, CEO of Rokky, a company dedicated to assisting game publishers in connecting with PC gamers beyond Valve’s ecosystem.
In a recent interview featured in the latest issue of the Knowledge newsletter, Andreev articulated a nuanced view of the gaming marketplace. “Steam is the center for everyone, yes,” he acknowledges. “Of course, you must be on Steam. But Steam isn’t the entire world. There are very big markets – China, Eastern Europe, Latin America – where local platforms are simply stronger in trust, in loyalty, in payment behavior.” This insight underscores the importance of recognizing diverse gaming cultures and preferences that exist outside the Steam framework.
Andreev’s observations resonate with a significant sentiment within the industry; a survey indicates that 72% of game developers perceive Steam as a monopoly. This assertion has sparked a robust dialogue regarding the definition of a monopoly and whether Valve’s platform truly fits that classification. The team at Rokky firmly believes that there are numerous regions where Steam’s dominance can be effectively challenged.
“Steam is great, but it is not enough if you want full global revenue,” Andreev asserts, emphasizing the necessity for publishers to explore alternative avenues for distribution. This call to action is particularly relevant as Valve has undeniably excelled in creating a “massive marketplace” on Windows through Steam.
In response to the shifting dynamics of the gaming landscape, Microsoft and Xbox are poised to broaden their horizons. Their vision is clear: “We’re going to be everywhere.” This ambition reflects a growing recognition of the need for a more inclusive approach to gaming distribution, one that transcends the limitations of any single platform.
