Why is Hitman 2 not on Steam?
Hitman 2, the latest installment in the popular Hitman series, has been a topic of discussion among gamers since its release in 2018. One of the most frequently asked questions is why the game is not available on Steam, the largest digital distribution platform for PC games. In this article, we’ll explore the reasons behind this decision and provide a comprehensive answer to this question.
First Direct Answer: Exclusivity Agreement
The first and foremost reason for Hitman 2 not being available on Steam is an exclusivity agreement between Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment (WBIE) and Epic Games Store (EGS). In September 2018, WBIE announced a multi-year exclusivity deal with EGS, which means that Hitman 2 would be available exclusively on the EGS platform for a certain period.
What is the Epic Games Store?
The Epic Games Store is a relatively new digital distribution platform for PC games, launched in December 2018. It was created by Epic Games, the developer of Fortnite and Unreal Engine. The EGS aims to provide a more developer-friendly platform, with a focus on giving creators more control over their games and a higher revenue share compared to Steam.
Why Choose Exclusivity over Steam?
So, why did WBIE choose exclusivity with EGS over the established Steam platform? There are several reasons:
• Revenue Share: EGS offers a 50% revenue share for developers, compared to Steam’s 30% revenue share. This means that developers can keep more of the revenue generated from game sales on the EGS platform.
• Control and Flexibility: EGS provides developers with more control over their games, including the ability to make changes to the game without Steam’s approval.
• New Opportunities: EGS is seen as an opportunity for developers to reach a new audience and experiment with new business models, such as early access and subscription-based services.
Other Reasons Why Hitman 2 is Not on Steam
While the exclusivity agreement is the primary reason for Hitman 2 not being on Steam, there are other reasons that contribute to this decision:
• Timing: The release of Hitman 2 coincided with the launch of the EGS platform, making it a strategic move to debut on the new platform.
• Target Audience: The Hitman series is known for its niche audience, and EGS is seen as a platform that caters to a more specialized and dedicated fan base.
• Quality of Life: The EGS platform is designed to provide a more seamless and streamlined experience for developers and players alike, which aligns with the values of the Hitman series.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the reasons for Hitman 2 not being on Steam are rooted in the exclusivity agreement between WBIE and EGS. While Steam is the largest digital distribution platform for PC games, the Hitman series is not a good fit for the platform, and the exclusivity deal provides a more lucrative and flexible option for developers. Ultimately, the decision to choose EGS over Steam is a strategic one, aimed at providing a better experience for players and developers alike.
Table: Comparison of Steam and Epic Games Store
| Feature | Steam | Epic Games Store |
|---|---|---|
| Revenue Share | 30% | 50% |
| Control and Flexibility | Limited | High |
| Target Audience | Broader | Niche |
| Timing | Established | New |
By understanding the reasons behind the exclusivity agreement and the benefits of the Epic Games Store, we can appreciate the decision to keep Hitman 2 off Steam. As the gaming landscape continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how the relationship between developers, publishers, and platforms shapes the future of PC gaming.