Valve's Steam platform posted its highest-ever revenue in the first half of 2026, reaching 11.1 billion dollars according to estimates.
Alinea Analytics estimates show Steam earned more in the first six months of 2026 than during the entire year of 2023. The figure also exceeds revenue from the first half of 2025.
Rhys Elliott, head of market analysis at Alinea Analytics, cited the Chinese market, higher prices on new releases, and returning third-party publishers as key factors. As of February 2025, Chinese-speaking users accounted for 50 percent of Steam accounts.
Top earners included Forza Horizon 6 at 197.7 million dollars, Resident Evil Requiem at 194.5 million dollars, and Crimson Desert at 190 million dollars. Indie titles Slay the Spire 2, Subnautica 2, and Meccha Chameleon also contributed significantly.
In contrast, Microsoft's gaming revenue fell seven percent year-on-year while PlayStation has seen declining sales of exclusives since 2020.
