Valve, the company behind the popular digital distribution platform Steam, recently reported a significant increase in controller usage among its users. According to their latest data, the number of gamers using controllers on Steam has tripled since 2018. This trend highlights several key shifts in the gaming industry and player preferences over the past few years.
The increase in controller usage can be attributed to the growing popularity of certain game genres on Steam that are more suited to controllers. Action games, platformers, racing games, and certain types of RPGs tend to offer a better experience with a controller compared to a keyboard and mouse. Titles such as “Dark Souls,” “Hades,” and “Rocket League” have found substantial success on Steam and are primarily designed with controller gameplay in mind. As these genres gain traction, more players are opting for controllers to enhance their gaming experience.
Controller Options
The hardware landscape for controllers has evolved significantly. Valve’s own Steam Controller, while discontinued, set a precedent for versatile controller support. Additionally, the widespread availability and compatibility of Xbox and PlayStation controllers have made it easier for PC gamers to use these devices. The release of the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S further pushed this trend, as many gamers already own these controllers and can seamlessly connect them to their PCs.
Another factor contributing to this rise is the improved support for controllers on the Steam platform itself. Valve has consistently updated Steam to better recognize and support a variety of controllers. This includes not only mainstream options like Xbox and PlayStation controllers but also a plethora of third-party and niche controllers. The company’s commitment to providing a seamless plug-and-play experience has lowered the barrier for gamers who might have previously been hesitant to use a controller on PC.
Valve’s Steamworks API has also been instrumental in this shift. By providing developers with the tools needed to integrate robust controller support into their games, Steam has ensured that players can expect a consistent and reliable experience across a wide range of titles. This developer support has made controllers a more attractive option for both new and existing games on the platform.
Trend to Increase
Looking forward, the trend of increasing controller usage on Steam is likely to continue. As virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technologies develop further, and as more genres traditionally associated with consoles make their way to PC, the reliance on controllers is expected to grow. Additionally, with the rise of cloud gaming and services like Steam Link, which allow gamers to stream their PC games to other devices, having a good controller becomes even more beneficial.
The tripling of controller usage on Steam since 2018 is a reflection of broader trends in the gaming industry, including changes in game design, hardware advancements, and improvements in platform support. Valve’s proactive approach in enhancing controller compatibility and supporting developers has played a crucial role in this growth. As the gaming landscape continues to evolve, controllers are set to remain a significant part of the PC gaming experience.
