Valve, the owner of the Steam platform and the manufacturer of the Steam Deck, stands out as one of the most productive companies in the tech world. According to data published by research firm Alinea Analytics, the company has generated $16.2 billion in revenue from the Steam platform alone. Some market analysts predict the company will reach a total revenue of $17 billion by 2025.

$17 billion with 350 employees: Valve’s incredible revenue success

The company’s average employee count between 2012 and 2021 is estimated to have been around 350. Calculations based on this data reveal that the gaming giant generated almost $50 million in revenue per employee. Because Valve is a private company, it is not required to disclose official data; therefore, it is important to note that these figures are based on leaked reports and estimates from research firms. However, past data also supports this picture.

These figures significantly exceed the revenue per employee of other tech giants. For example, according to Visual Capitalist data, Apple generates $2.4 million per employee, while Meta generates $1.9 million. Valve’s performance is far superior to these companies. Even Microsoft’s 2021 estimates showed Valve earning more than $18 million per employee at the time.

Valve management is also aware of this high profitability. The company’s employee handbook clearly states that its profitability is higher than that of Google, Amazon, or Microsoft, and that this profitability should be returned to employees. According to leaked information, the company spends close to $450 million on employee salaries, and the average employee’s cost can exceed $1.3 million.

This remarkable success stems from the company’s completely private ownership and lack of accountability to shareholders. Gabe Newell and his partners are able to focus on the company’s long-term success rather than maximizing profits. Furthermore, the company employs a flat hierarchy, where everyone works as a team, without traditional managers.

The company, the maker of legendary games like Counter-Strike, Dota 2, and Left 4 Dead, continues to shape the gaming industry. Valve, which revitalized the handheld console market with the 2022 release of Steam Deck, is expected to release a new Steam Machine in 2026.

What are your thoughts on Valve’s massive revenue growth and the benefits it offers its employees? Don’t forget to share your thoughts with us in the comments.