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Steam has raked in an estimated $11.1 billion gross revenue so far this year, says market analyst—its…
A report from Alinea Analytics indicates that Steam generated an estimated $11.1 billion in gross revenue in the first half of 2026, marking its highest-ever six-month period. This growth is attributed to factors like increased game prices, successful new releases, and the return of third-party publishers like Ubisoft to the platform.
As Xbox and PlayStation flounder, Steam is reportedly having another record year
Valve's PC storefront Steam has achieved record-breaking revenue in the first half of 2026, generating an estimated $11.1 billion. This growth is attributed to the strong performance of the Chinese market, higher new release prices, and the return of third-party publishers. Meanwhile, Microsoft's Xbox and Sony's PlayStation divisions are facing challenges due to declining sales, increased hardware costs, and negative consumer sentiment.
Bethesda Hit Hard by Layoffs, Studio Head Says “We Need to Change Course” – Rumor
Bethesda has reportedly experienced significant layoffs, with studio head Jill Braff stating the company needs to "change course" to ensure a more stable foundation and sustainable growth. This shift involves focusing on its strongest franchises, The Elder Scrolls and Fallout, potentially impacting development on other titles. The move comes amid broader industry layoffs and aims to reposition Bethesda for future success.
Xbox are parting ways with Double Fine, Arkane, Undead Labs, Compulsion, and Ninja Theory in the course of thousands of layoffs
Microsoft has announced significant layoffs affecting 3200 employees and is parting ways with five Xbox-owned studios: Double Fine, Arkane, Undead Labs, Compulsion Games, and Ninja Theory. Some studios will become independent or find new ownership, while Arkane's future is uncertain. CEO Asha Sharma cited rising costs, underperforming acquisitions, and a challenging industry landscape as reasons for the "reset."
Xbox Could Help Studios at Risk to Complete Their Games – Rumor
Rumors suggest Xbox is planning significant cost-cutting measures, potentially leading to layoffs and studio closures. While some studios might go independent or be sold, there's a possibility that affected studios could still complete their announced games. This news comes amid broader industry challenges and discussions about PlayStation ceasing disc production.
Where did all the UK game events go?
The UK faces a significant decline in major consumer video game events, with many established shows like EGX and Insomnia folding or merging, and new attempts failing. This trend is attributed to rising costs, shifting global marketing budgets of major publishers away from such events, and the overwhelming draw of larger international shows like Gamescom. While smaller niche and B2B events remain successful, the lack of large-scale consumer gatherings is a concern for the UK's substantial gaming market.
Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League Developers Thought About Leaving the Industry
Former Rocksteady Studios developers Axel Rydby and Johnny Armstrong discussed the challenging development of Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League, revealing that executive decisions focused on monetization led them to question their passion for game making. The developers also shared their experiences with the game's numerous delays and the studio's inexperience with multiplayer titles, ultimately leading them to leave Rocksteady and pursue new projects like Secret of Circadia.
Are these the 100 most influential games of all time?
Kitfox Games CEO Tanya Short discusses a list of the 100 most influential video games of all time, compiled by professional game designers. The list, assembled through the Polaris game design retreat, aims to serve as a tool for designers to improve their craft and create influential games.
Nintendo probably won't ditch physical games just because PlayStation is, analyst predicts: "Nintendo is going…
Industry analyst Mat Piscatella predicts Nintendo will not follow Sony's lead in phasing out new physical game releases by 2028. Piscatella stated that Nintendo operates independently and is unlikely to alter its strategy based on competitors' decisions. Despite the industry shift towards digital, Nintendo maintains a strong physical market share, particularly with the Nintendo Switch.
Games Inbox: Will the PS6 really cost £1,000?
Readers discuss concerns about the potential high price of the PlayStation 6, with some predicting it could exceed £1,000. The discussion touches on the rising costs of game development, the shift towards digital-only releases, and whether next-generation consoles offer enough compelling new features to justify such an expense.
Will GTA 6 Cause the End of Disc Copies?
Grand Theft Auto 6 is reportedly moving away from disc copies, even for physical editions, instead providing a download code. This decision by Rockstar Games has sparked debate about the future of physical media in the gaming industry and concerns over digital ownership versus true ownership of a purchased game.
Has $80 GTA 6 Opened the Door to More Expensive Games? Analysts Respond
Rockstar Games has confirmed Grand Theft Auto 6 will launch at a $80 price point, prompting speculation among analysts about the future prevalence of $80 games. The article explores whether other publishers can successfully implement similar pricing strategies.
GTA 6 isn't $100, but its real price proves games are only going to get more expensive
Grand Theft Auto 6 will launch at $80, establishing a new price point that signifies a trend towards more expensive video games. This price increase, while higher than the current $70 standard, is seen by some as a reflection of rising development costs and the premium status of the franchise. The article discusses the potential impact on the industry and consumer accessibility, noting the absence of a PC version at launch.
Eidos Montreal founder says modern execs are driven more by spreadsheets than passion for games
Stephane D'Astous, founder of Eidos Montreal, believes modern game executives are driven more by financial spreadsheets than a genuine passion for games. He notes the shift from smaller, more personal decision-making to large, financially motivated corporate strategies, citing the increased influence of entities like Tencent and sovereign wealth funds. D'Astous feels this change has led to unrealistic expectations and a less creative development environment.
Games Inbox: Is Call Of Duty: Modern Warfare 4 set to be a flop?
This opinion piece discusses the potential failure of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 4, attributing it to a lack of direction and the series coasting on its name. It also touches on reader opinions regarding Grand Theft Auto 6 pre-orders, studio closures by major companies, and Nintendo's strategy with remakes.
The two best years in video game history were both in the 2010s - Reader's Feature
A reader argues that 2011 and 2013 were the best years in video game history, citing a high volume of quality releases and industry-shifting console launches. The article details numerous significant titles from both years, including The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword, Skyrim, The Last of Us, and Grand Theft Auto 5, alongside the debut of the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One.
'A new industry with a new identity:' How Canadian devs are faring in 2026
The Canadian games industry is undergoing a transformation, moving away from a reliance on triple-A development and tax incentives towards a more resilient model focused on indie studios and community collaboration. Despite recent layoffs and studio closures, there is optimism for a new identity centered on smaller, agile teams that can validate market potential through evidence like wishlists and community engagement, supported by systems like the Canadian Media Fund.
Anyone Not Working on The Elder Scrolls or Fallout at Bethesda is Being Laid Off – Rumor
Reports suggest that ZeniMax Media, including studios like Bethesda Game Studios and id Software, is undergoing significant layoffs, with employees not working on The Elder Scrolls or Fallout projects being particularly affected. This comes amid broader Xbox restructuring and potential studio closures for titles like Hellblade and South of Midnight, as executives cite revenue losses and rising hardware costs.
Games Inbox: Is Xbox worth saving?
This article discusses the uncertain future of Xbox, with readers expressing concern over potential studio closures and a lack of innovation. The piece contrasts Xbox's current strategy with past industry practices of companies like Electronic Arts and questions whether Xbox deserves to be saved given its perceived mismanagement and impact on developers.
Ori Dev CEO Says Xbox Was Too Focused On Protecting Its Legacy To Build Its Future
Moon Studios CEO Thomas Mahler believes Xbox's focus on legacy intellectual properties like Halo, Gears of War, and Forza hindered its ability to cultivate new talent and games. He suggests that Xbox should prioritize empowering creative individuals and teams who understand the gaming audience, rather than relying solely on nostalgia.
