According to an independent study commissioned by PC game distribution platform Rokky, the vast majority of game developers believe that Steam constitutes a game distribution monopoly. 72% of studios participating in the study believe Valve’s platform is excessively dominant in the industry. This suggests serious concerns about developers’ reliance on Steam.

Why do developers view Steam as a game distribution monopoly?

The study in question was conducted by Atomik Research in May 2025, with 306 industry executives from the UK and US. The survey results show that a majority of studios generate over 75% of their revenue through Steam. Furthermore, more than half of developers (53%) are concerned about their excessive reliance on Steam for distributing their games.

However, the industry has begun to take steps to reduce this reliance. Developers are increasingly using alternative platforms such as the Epic Games Store and the Xbox PC Game Store. Almost half of survey participants (48%) say they distribute their games on both of these alternative stores. Additionally, 10% prefer using GOG and 8% prefer using Itch.io.

Developers’ expectations are also striking. 80% of respondents say they expect to use alternative channels in addition to Steam within the next five years. This diversification is expected to yield tangible benefits. 75% of developers anticipate seeing “at least a 10% increase” in their revenue thanks to these new marketplaces and e-stores. However, developers also express concerns about gray markets and loss of control when using these platforms.

So, what are your thoughts on Steam’s dominant role in PC game distribution? Share your thoughts with us in the comments!