Steam’s latest user data reveals a stunning milestone as Chinese players now comprise over 50% of the platform’s global user base as of February 2025. This dramatic shift marks the first time a single region has dominated the platform to such an extent.
The surge occurred during the Chinese New Year period, but analysts note the increase significantly exceeds the usual holiday bump Steam experiences every year during this time. While seasonal increases are common, the magnitude of this shift indicates deeper market changes.
Popular titles like It Takes Two and Black Myth: Wukong have played a crucial role in driving this growth. Black Myth: Wukong in particular, with its roots in Chinese mythology, has resonated strongly with local players while also achieving global appeal.
Perhaps more significant is the ongoing transformation in Chinese gaming preferences. The market is steadily moving away from its historically free-to-play dominated landscape toward premium game purchases. Rising disposable incomes and greater access to international payment methods have accelerated this trend.
Steam’s position in China remains unique. Despite the existence of a government-approved domestic version with a limited game selection, many Chinese gamers continue to access the international version which offers a broader library of unfiltered content.
Valve has managed to maintain this delicate balance where other foreign gaming platforms have struggled against strict regulatory requirements. The company’s approach has allowed it to benefit from China’s massive player base without completely restructuring its offering.
Industry experts point to these numbers as proof of China’s growing influence on global gaming trends. Game developers and publishers are factoring Chinese player preferences into their release strategies more and more, affecting everything from game design to monetization approaches.
