Study Reveals Many Steam Players Buy Games They Never Play

Steam Users Hoard Games Like Collectors, Says Analyst Chris Zukowski

Industry video game analyst Chris Zukowski asserts that Steam has evolved into a platform where many players prioritize accumulating games in their libraries over actively playing them. He likens this behavior to “Tsundoku,” the Japanese concept of collecting unread books, and compares Steam users to hobbyists who gather items without using them, such as LEGO builders, Warhammer collectors, or knitters. Zukowski highlights that Steam generates substantial revenue from indie games, largely due to a segment of passionate gamers who frequently make impulse purchases, many of which remain unplayed. He also notes that unlike platforms competing for active engagement, such as Fortnite or TikTok, or even sleep, Steam’s operator, Valve, does not directly contend for a user’s immediate play time. Instead, Valve has, in effect, given gamers “extra time” by allowing them to collect games for later; Zukowski notes that even his own game collection remains two-thirds unplayed, a personal example that aligns with this observation.

Unplayed Steam Games Pile Up Due to Promotions and Impulse Buys

This accumulation behavior is driven by several factors, including aggressive promotions and the platform’s ease of purchase. Events like the Steam Sales encourage impulse buys, often without users considering whether they will play the game. Game bundles, such as those offered by Humble Bundle, further contribute to this trend, as users acquire packages at reduced prices, even if not all included games align with their interests. Simon Carless, another industry observer, previously noted that more than half the games in a typical Steam player’s library remained untouched, a statistic he cited without specifying the timeframe. Despite many games going unplayed, this trend ultimately benefits game producers.

Zukowski asserts that game developers concede 30 percent of their earnings to Valve precisely because Steam’s marketplace provides access to a vast number of avid gamers who purchase impulsively. This enables producers to reach a significantly broader audience, even if most of their titles remain unplayed. Zukowski suggests that if players were entirely rational and bought only games they intended to play, overall sales would be substantially lower, highlighting how impulse buying benefits the platform. He further highlights that Steam offers a robust platform with effective marketing tools, including wishlists, discounts, and promotions, which significantly enhance game visibility and drive sales. Zukowski advises game producers to leverage these tools to maximize their reach and success on the platform.

The behavior of Steam users accumulating games without playing them is a complex phenomenon, reflecting evolving player preferences and habits. A 2023 study found that the average Steam user accessed only 48.5 percent of their game library. This contrasts sharply with platforms like Netflix, where active consumption is paramount. For instance, the lesser-known game Peak, released alongside major titles like Stellar Blade and Death Stranding 2, garnered significant attention; its unique theme or eye-catching visuals may have prompted impulse purchases, thereby adding to users’ unplayed libraries. For game producers, understanding this behavior is crucial for capitalizing on the platform’s opportunities. Meanwhile, players continue to expand their digital collections, motivated by promotions and the satisfaction of ownership, even when their time for playing is limited.

In Case You Missed It

If you’re a gaming enthusiast keeping track of the latest trends and sales figures, be sure to check out Jonathan Dubinski’s recent post “Monster Hunter Wilds Continues to Lead Sales in US for 2025” (published on July 9, 2025). This insightful article delves into the commercial success of Capcom’s Monster Hunter Wilds, which has not only maintained its position as the top-selling game but also faced some criticism. Alongside updates on other popular titles like The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered and Assassin’s Creed Shadows, Dubinski provides a comprehensive overview of the North American gaming market’s performance this year. Click Monster Hunter Wilds Continues to Lead Sales in US for 2025 to dive into the details! Exciting news for Elden Ring Nightreign fans out there! Bruno Pferd’s latest piece, published on July 9, 2025, delves into the game’s upcoming updates and player-centric changes. From weekly free content to a thrilling multi-boss encounter event starting this week, it’s clear the developers are committed to keeping players engaged. Looking ahead, sovereign versions of other bosses like Gladius and Maris will hit the scene in August/September, leading up to the highly anticipated DLC release later this year. Don’t miss out on all the details at Elden Ring Nightreign Implements Major Change Requested by Players! If you’re a fan of diverse gaming experiences, be sure to check out our latest post, “Xbox Game Pass: Two New Games Available, Including a Cherished Gem” by Jonathan Dubinski (published on July 9, 2025). In this exciting piece, Jon dives into the recent additions to Xbox Game Pass, including the cyberpunk adventure of “The Ascent” and the charming world-building game “Minami Lane.” Whether you’re into fast-paced action or relaxed creation games, there’s something for everyone. Head over to our article to learn more! Xbox Game Pass: Two New Games Available, Including a Cherished Gem