Plus: Examining the Next 90 Days for Big Steam Releases

This analysis examines the performance and market expectations for PC and console titles during the summer of 2023, with a specific focus on the Steam platform. By utilizing proprietary Hype scores, follower counts, and concurrent user (CCU) data, the findings identify emerging trends in player interest and the commercial trajectory of high-profile releases. The scope covers major global digital storefronts, including Steam, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo eShop, Epic Games Store, and Meta Quest, focusing on the 90-day window surrounding June 2023.

Market data indicates a robust period for Steam, characterized by approximately one game per week launching with over 200,000 wishlists. Current player preferences show a significant lean toward complex 3D titles featuring military, grimdark, or survival themes, such as Forever Skies and Trepang2. While mainstream recognition varies, these titles maintain strong core player support. A notable exception to this aesthetic trend is the high interest in the 16-bit inspired RPG Sea of Stars.

Recent launch performance highlights include Street Fighter 6, which achieved a record-breaking 66,000 CCU on Steam, making it the biggest fighting game launch in the platform's history. Conversely, the release of Mobile Suit Gundam Battle Operation 2 serves as a cautionary case, where severe technical and matchmaking issues resulted in over 6,000 negative reviews despite high initial engagement. Other successful debuts include the System Shock remake and the budget-friendly PvP shooter Friends vs Friends, both of which secured positive player sentiment through quality-of-life improvements and distinct visual styles.

Looking ahead, the report identifies Amnesia: The Bunker and Espresso Tycoon as key upcoming titles with significant follower growth. While the VR market remains underdeveloped on Steam, titles like Undead Citadel continue to enter the space. On consoles, Warhammer 40,000: Boltgun and Street Fighter 6 dominate recent paid download charts, while Diablo IV is positioned as the primary non-Steam blockbuster for the period.