Understanding Steam’s Revenue Sharing Model

When it comes to distributing games, Steam is one of the most popular platforms. But how much money does Steam take from games? This question is crucial for developers looking to understand their potential earnings on the platform. Let’s delve into the details.

Steam’s Revenue Sharing Structure

Steam’s revenue sharing model is straightforward. The platform takes a percentage of the sales price for each game sold through its service. As of my last update, this percentage is 30%. However, there are some nuances to consider.

Steam Direct and Greenlight

Before a game can be sold on Steam, it must go through the Steam Direct or Greenlight process. Steam Direct requires a one-time fee of $100, which is non-refundable. This fee is to prevent spam and ensure that only serious developers are using the platform. Greenlight, on the other hand, is a community-driven process where users vote on whether a game should be allowed on Steam. There is no fee for Greenlight, but it can be a lengthy process.

Steam’s Revenue Sharing for Different Types of Games

The revenue sharing model can vary depending on the type of game. For example, if a game is part of a bundle or a sale, the revenue sharing percentage may be different. Additionally, if a game is part of a Steam promotion, such as a Steam Summer Sale, the revenue sharing percentage may also change.

Game Type	Revenue Sharing Percentage
Standard Game	30%
Game in a Bundle	Varies
Game on Sale	Varies
Game in a Steam Promotion	Varies

Additional Costs and Fees

Besides the revenue sharing percentage, there are other costs and fees associated with selling games on Steam. These include the Steam Direct fee, if applicable, and any payment processing fees. Payment processing fees vary depending on the payment method chosen by the customer.

Steam’s Refund Policy

Steam has a generous refund policy, which can impact a developer’s earnings. If a customer requests a refund within two weeks of purchase, Steam will issue a full refund. This refund is taken from the developer’s earnings, which can be a significant factor to consider when pricing games.

Steam’s In-Game Purchases and Microtransactions

Steam also allows developers to include in-game purchases and microtransactions in their games. While this can increase revenue, it also comes with its own set of challenges and considerations. Steam takes a 15% cut of in-game purchases and microtransactions, which can be a substantial amount for high-revenue games.

Steam’s Revenue Sharing for Developers in Different Regions

The revenue sharing percentage may also vary depending on the region where the game is sold. For example, Steam’s revenue sharing percentage in China is 70%, with the remaining 30% going to the developer. This is due to the fact that Steam operates through a local partner in China, which requires a higher cut.

Conclusion

Understanding how much money Steam takes from games is essential for developers looking to maximize their earnings on the platform. While the standard revenue sharing percentage is 30%, there are various factors that can affect this, including the type of game, the presence of in-game purchases, and the region where the game is sold. By considering these factors, developers can make informed decisions about their pricing and revenue strategies on Steam.