Steam’s Market Position Under Scrutiny
For more than a decade, Steam has established itself as the go-to platform for purchasing and selling video games on PC. While alternatives such as GOG, the Epic Store, and the Xbox PC Games Store exist, Steam’s vast user base and superior user experience have solidified its status as the premier marketplace for PC gamers and developers alike.
However, this dominance raises questions about its implications for competition within the industry. A recent whitepaper titled ‘The State of PC Game Distribution’ sheds light on this issue, revealing that a significant majority of game developers perceive Steam’s position as monopolistic. According to the findings, a striking 72% of developers surveyed believe that Steam holds a monopoly over the PC gaming market.
The whitepaper’s insights stem from an independent study conducted by Atomik Research, which engaged with 306 executives across the UK and US between May 18 and May 22 of this year. The research highlights the growing concerns among developers regarding the competitive landscape of PC gaming distribution.
Amidst this backdrop, a new player has emerged in the market: Rokky. For those unfamiliar with Rokky, it is a fresh distribution platform designed to bridge the gap between publishers and various digital storefronts worldwide. As the gaming industry continues to evolve, platforms like Rokky may offer alternative pathways for developers seeking to reach their audience without relying solely on Steam’s extensive ecosystem.
As the dialogue around market competition intensifies, the future of PC game distribution may see significant shifts, driven by both developer sentiment and the emergence of innovative platforms. The landscape is ripe for exploration, and the next chapter in PC gaming distribution is just beginning to unfold.
