Steam Reveals Best-Selling and Most-Played Games of 2023

Steam, the leading digital distribution platform for PC games, has recently unveiled its annual "Best of 2023" list, highlighting the year's most outstanding games across various categories. This roundup captures what has gripped gamers worldwide, from unexpected indie gems to blockbuster releases. In this article, we delve into the different categories and discuss the highlights of this list.

Top Sellers: The Crème de la Crème of Steam

The 'Top Sellers' category indicates the financially most successful games. These titles have not only captured players' attention but have also opened their wallets. The Platinum Tier features a mixture of fresh releases and enduring favorites. Heavyweights like 'Apex Legends', 'Cyberpunk 2077', and 'Destiny 2' continue to perform strongly, while new releases such as 'Starfield' and 'Hogwarts Legacy' prove that the appetite for new worlds and stories is as strong as ever. It's noteworthy that 'Dota 2' and 'Counter-Strike 2' maintain their top tier status, showcasing the enduring power of competitive online games.

New Releases: The Stars of 2023

The 'New Releases' category spotlights games released in 2023 that immediately made an impact. This category is particularly intriguing as it provides a glimpse into the future of gaming. 'Street Fighter 6' and 'Resident Evil 4 Remake' demonstrate that refreshing classics remain a successful formula. On the other hand, 'Star Wars Jedi: Survivor' proves that expanding beloved universes is a winning strategy. 'Hogwarts Legacy' and 'Baldur's Gate 3' show that players continue to crave rich, immersive RPG experiences.

Most Played: Where Players Converge

The 'Most Played' category measures games with the highest peaks in concurrent players. This is the true test of a game's appeal and longevity. Titles that make this list are not just popular at purchase but also maintain a dedicated player base. Surprises like 'Goose Goose Duck' and 'Sons of the Forest' make their presence felt alongside established names like 'PUBG: Battlegrounds' and 'Apex Legends'. This category demonstrates which games can create and sustain a community.

Early Access: Where Potential Takes Shape

Early Access titles are games still in development but playable for the public. 'Baldur's Gate 3' has earned its place on this list with a loyal following eager for each update. 'Marvel Snap' and 'Disney Dreamlight Valley' show the power of well-known franchises in attracting players, even in early stages of development. Early Access provides a unique opportunity for developers and players to collaborate and shape a game into its best version.

Steam Deck Games: Portable Powerhouses

The Steam Deck has changed how we look at PC gaming by offering a portable experience without sacrificing quality. 'Elden Ring' and 'The Witcher III: Wild Hunt' prove that extensive, graphically intensive games can be enjoyed on the go. The presence of 'Cyberpunk 2077' indicates that even the most talked-about titles can find a second life on the portable device. Steam Deck has opened the door to new gaming possibilities, and these titles are evidence of that.

Controller Games: The Preference for Comfort

Certain games offer a better or more comfortable experience when played with a controller. This category includes sports and fighting games like 'FIFA 23' and 'Street Fighter 6', as well as action-adventure games like 'Resident Evil 4 Remake' and 'Hogwarts Legacy'. The versatility of the controller as an input device is celebrated here, showing that many players prefer the tactile feedback of a gamepad.

VR-Exclusive Experiences: Diving into Other Worlds

VR-exclusive games provide an immersion that's not possible on other platforms. 'Half-Life: Alyx' continues to be a benchmark of what's achievable in VR, while 'Beat Saber' remains the undisputed king of VR rhythm games. New titles like 'Ghosts of Tabor' prove that innovation within VR is ongoing. These games represent the cutting edge of what the technology has to offer, drawing players looking for a unique and immersive experience.

A Year of Diversity and Innovation

Steam's "Best of 2023" list reveals a fascinating mix of genres, playstyles, and experiences that have won over gamers' hearts this past year. From proven franchises to surprising newcomers, the diversity and innovation within the gaming industry are apparent. The year 2023 showed that, regardless of platform preference, genre, or playstyle, there's always something new and exciting to discover on Steam. As we look forward to what the future will bring, we can reflect on a year filled with games that have challenged, entertained, and brought us together.