In today's digital age, mobile game development is revolutionizing the way we play games on our devices. But have you ever wondered what lies behind the scenes? In a recent study conducted by Rokky, an independent research firm surveyed 306 industry executives across the UK and USA to gain insights into the state of PC game distribution.

The State of PC Game Distribution

The survey revealed that a whopping 72% of developers believe Steam has a monopoly on the PC games market. With such a dominant presence, it's no surprise that 75% of respondents reported that Steam accounts for over 75% of their overall revenue. However, this doesn't mean that other platforms don't have a place in the industry.

The Rise of Alternative Platforms

While Steam remains a major player, developers are increasingly turning to alternative platforms such as the Epic Game Store and Xbox PC Games store. In fact, almost half (48%) of those surveyed have distributed titles on both stores, while 10% have used GOG and 8% have used Itch.io. This shift towards diversification is a key trend in the industry, with developers looking to spread their wings and reach new audiences.

Physical Copies and Marketplaces

Interestingly, the study found that 32% of developers release some of their games on physical media (discs, cartridges, and 'keys-in-boxes'). Additionally, marketplaces like G2A and Kinguin are becoming increasingly popular, offering benefits such as ease of use, pricing control, promotional support, and international reach. Developers also highlighted the importance of E-stores like Fanatical and Humble Bundle.

The Future of PC Game Distribution

So, what does the future hold for PC game distribution? According to respondents, 80% expect to use alternative channels alongside Steam within five years. Moreover, 75% predict that they will see at least a 10% uplift in revenue from using marketplaces and E-stores in particular. However, concerns about the gray market and loss of control are also on the radar.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the state of PC game distribution is more varied, vast, and complex than ever before. As Rokky co-founder and CEO Vadim Andreev aptly put it, "New opportunities are everywhere – as are pitfalls and challenges." With mobile game development on the rise, understanding the nuances of this industry has never been more important.

Target keyword: mobile game development