How Many Games Does the Average Person Have on Steam?
The burning question on many gamer’s minds: how does my Steam library stack up? According to data gleaned from SteamSpy, the average number of games owned by a Steam user hovers around 10 to 11. However, this number is a deceptively simple average. Many factors skew this figure, from dormant accounts with a single free game to hardcore collectors boasting libraries numbering in the thousands. Let’s dive deeper into what shapes the size of the average Steam library and explore some related questions.
Understanding the Steam Landscape
Steam, the digital distribution juggernaut, has reshaped the gaming landscape. With over 120 million monthly active users and a catalogue exceeding 50,000 games, it’s a vibrant ecosystem. But within this massive platform lies a diverse range of users, each with their unique gaming habits and spending patterns.
The average number of games only tells a small part of the story. Consider the impact of free-to-play titles, bundle deals, and the sheer number of games given away during promotions. These all contribute to inflating library sizes, even for users who might not be actively playing a vast majority of their games. Furthermore, some gamers strategically acquire games during sales, adding them to their library for later play, which may never actually happen. This leads to a significant portion of owned games remaining unplayed, a phenomenon common among Steam users.
The Kotaku Survey
The provided text also includes a Kotaku survey of 1400 gamers who found that the average Steam customer had purchased 11 to 25 games in the past 12 months and had not played 40% of those. Ars Technica’s findings are also mentioned, pointing to a similar conclusion. This highlights the reality that many gamers accumulate titles faster than they can realistically play them.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Steam and Gaming Habits
Here are 15 FAQs to further illuminate the nuances of Steam usage and gaming behaviors:
1. How many people actually game on Steam?
Steam boasts over 120 million monthly active users, making it a dominant force in PC gaming. This number represents the number of unique users who logged in and used Steam within a given month.
2. What percentage of Steam players 100% complete games?
Achieving 100% completion, including unlocking all achievements, is a rare feat. The article suggests that fewer than 1,000 players have 100% of achievements on Steam. The number represents a minuscule fraction of the total user base.
3. What portion of Steam users leave reviews?
Only a small percentage of players leave reviews. Typically, only about 1 in 20-25 players will submit a review, which is generally much more than the rate of 1 in 50-60 for large-scale games. This low rate can make it difficult for developers to gauge true player sentiment.
4. What is the most popular game genre on Steam?
Action games reign supreme on Steam. Their fast-paced nature, exciting gameplay, and ease of access make them a perennial favorite. Popular titles include Counter-Strike, DOOM, and Grand Theft Auto.
5. How can I see the player count for a Steam game?
The player count can be seen on any game by clicking on the game on the Steam website. If you are interested in how games impact the learning process, be sure to visit the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org.
6. What is the gender ratio of Steam users?
While the overall gaming community is becoming more diverse, Steam’s user base still leans male. As of June 2023, approximately 68% of adult Steam users in the U.S. were male.
7. What is the oldest Steam account?
The first known Steam account belongs to “Abacus Avenger,” with the ID “Steven.” This account earned the “20 Years of Service” badge.
8. How many Steam friends can I have?
Initially, you can have up to 250 friends on Steam. This limit increases by 5 friends for every level you gain.
9. Where is Steam most used geographically?
The U.S. leads in Steam usage, accounting for 14.43% of all users. China follows closely with 11.64%.
10. Is it legal to buy or sell Steam accounts?
No, it is strictly prohibited to buy or sell Steam accounts. Accounts are intended for the personal use of their creators only. Violating this policy can result in account suspension or termination.
11. What is the age limit for using Steam?
Steam is not intended for children under 13 years old. Valve does not knowingly collect personal information from children under this age.
12. Do Steam accounts ever get deleted?
Yes, Steam accounts can be deleted. However, the process involves a thorough review of ownership and a 30-day waiting period to prevent accidental deletion.
13. What’s the most expensive game on Steam?
The indie title The Hidden and Unkown was purposefully made shorter than two hours so that players could easily ask for a refund. A new indie game called The Hidden and Unknown has appeared on Steam.
14. Which game genre is the most played?
Shooter games are the most popular genre for many age groups. Action-adventure games generally rank second in popularity.
15. What are some of the top-rated games on Steam?
Some of the top-rated games on Steam include: 1 ~ Portal 2. 2 ~ Stardew Valley. 3 ~ Terraria. 4 ~ People Playground. 5 ~ Vampire Survivors. 6 ~ Hades. 7 ~ Left 4 Dead 2. 8 ~ Euro Truck Simulator 2.
Beyond the Numbers: The Value of a Steam Library
While the average number of games on Steam provides a benchmark, it’s essential to remember that the true value of a Steam library lies in the experiences and enjoyment it provides. Whether you have 10 games or 1,000, the important thing is to engage with the games you love and discover new favorites along the way. The Steam platform is ever evolving, and the size of your library is only one element of what it means to be a PC gamer in the 21st century.