New games thrived on Steam in 2025, outperforming previous years and challenging the landscape dominated by live services. Data from GamesDiscoverCo shows that 31 new games made it to Steam's Top 100 highest-grossing chart, up from 24 the previous year, with notable titles like Monster Hunter Wilds and Arc Raiders entering the Platinum tier. This year saw a surge in revenue from new releases, suggesting a potential shift in consumer preferences towards fresh content. In contrast, traditional live service titles like Fortnite and Call of Duty maintained their player base but did not lead in revenue. The data indicates that while familiar franchises continue to thrive, there's a growing appetite for innovation in the gaming market.

Why did new games perform better on Steam in 2025 compared to previous years?

New games performed better on Steam in 2025 due to a combination of increased quality of recent releases, player fatigue with existing live service games, and significant discounts on perennial sellers which affected their revenue potential. The shift indicates gamers are increasingly seeking fresh experiences over the familiar titles dominating the charts.

Notably, the game Arc Raiders, developed by Embark Studios, has emerged as a standout title. This cooperative, free-to-play shooter aims to deliver a unique gameplay experience, thereby appealing to gamers looking for new genres and styles amidst an oversaturated market filled with sequels and live service titles. The success of Arc Raiders, alongside other new entries, could signal a new era in gaming where originality plays a crucial role in consumer engagement.