Steam’s record half-year and why it’s a big deal
Steam just posted its best first half ever: an estimated $11.1 billion in gross revenue from January to June 2026, according to Alinea Analytics. That’s about a 14.5% jump from the same period last year, and it even tops the 2025 holiday bump — not bad for a digital storefront that never sleeps.
These numbers include everything sold and spent inside Steam, including free-to-play transactions. Alinea’s head of market analysis, Rhys Elliott, points to a few obvious drivers: more traction in China, higher launch prices on big titles, and some publishers walking back from their own storefronts and apps to sell on Steam again.
Long-term trends look healthy too. Alinea’s estimates show seven straight half-years of growth, and Steam is pulling in nearly five times the revenue it did in the first half of 2017, even after the post-pandemic dip. In short—Steam’s not dying; it’s getting richer.
Top earners, indie shocks, and what players should watch
So who paid for all that success? Alinea’s breakdown highlights several huge earners. Forza Horizon 6 led the pack with roughly $197.7 million in under two months on Steam. Resident Evil Requiem trailed close behind with about $194.5 million and an estimated 3.4 million copies sold on the platform. Crimson Desert has also been a heavyweight, banking around $190 million since launching in March.
The usual AAA suspects aren’t the only ones cashing in. Indies did surprisingly well: Slay the Spire 2 reportedly pulled in about $141.7 million, Subnautica 2 $133.6 million, and Meccha Chameleon around $71.3 million. That’s a reminder that strong design and word-of-mouth can still punch above marketing budgets on Steam.
Why this matters to gamers: more money on Steam usually means more big releases, ongoing live-service support, and occasionally flash sales that make wallets happy. But it also feeds debates about higher base prices, platform fees, and where publishers choose to launch their games. If companies keep coming back to Steam, it’s good for choice and convenience — but watch your bank account when launch week hits.
Bottom line: Steam’s 2026 first half was a win for the platform and for players who like having everything in one place. Expect more blockbuster releases, some lively community takeovers, and the same never-ending discussion about price versus value. Pop some snacks — the next Steam sale is coming, and the receipts are going to be hefty.
