PC gamers overwhelmingly prefer older games, according to new research from Newzoo. A stunning 92% of all PC playtime in 2023 went to games that were at least a year old. This surprising stat reveals just how dominant legacy titles remain in the ecosystem—even as new releases continue to flood digital storefronts.
PC gamers show loyalty to familiar favorites
Newzoo’s data paints a clear picture: Players tend to stick with what they know. Popular live-service games like League of Legends, GTA 5, and Valorant still command massive daily audiences. Even older single-player experiences continue to draw significant engagement. This trend suggests that the PC gaming audience values stability, long-term updates, and deep game libraries over chasing the newest releases.
Terraria, the legendary indie game that remains popular 13 years after its release, has reached record sales.
New releases struggle to grab attention
Only 8% of all playtime went to games released in the same year. That’s a tough pill to swallow for developers banking on hype and launch-week sales. While blockbusters like Baldur’s Gate 3 did break through, most new titles failed to draw players away from their established favorites. It’s a stark reminder that visibility alone doesn’t guarantee longevity in the PC market.
The pc gaming community keeps growing
Alongside the playtime trends, Newzoo also reported that there are now approximately 908 million PC gamers worldwide. That number is up significantly year-over-year and reflects the platform’s ongoing global strength. The PC remains a central hub for a wide range of genres and player types—from hardcore strategy fans to casual sim enthusiasts.
Old games, big numbers, same passion
Despite the fast-moving nature of the industry, PC gamers are proving that older doesn’t mean outdated. Whether due to comfort, content depth, or sheer fun factor, these titles continue to dominate playtime. For developers, the takeaway is clear: updates and long-term support matter just as much as a flashy launch.
