How Much Does Steam Take From Your Game?
As a game developer, one of the most significant decisions you’ll make is choosing where to sell your game. Two of the largest players in the industry are Steam and the Epic Games Store. When it comes to profit sharing, the two platforms take different cuts. In this article, we’ll break down exactly how much Steam takes from your game and compare it to Epic Games Store.
Steam’s Revenue Share
Steam is known for its massive user base and extensive game library. When it comes to revenue sharing, Steam takes a 30% cut of every game sale, minus a $10 commission per game. This means that if your game sells for $50, Steam will take $15, and you’ll get $35. This fee structure applies to all games sold through the Steam store, including digital downloads, game passes, and in-game purchases.
| Game Price | Steam’s Cut (30%) | Your Revenue |
|---|---|---|
| $20 | $6 | $14 |
| $50 | $15 | $35 |
| $100 | $30 | $70 |
As you can see, the more you charge for your game, the larger Steam’s cut becomes. Keep in mind that Steam takes this 30% cut after transaction fees, which can vary between 5% and 15%, depending on the type of payment and the game’s pricing.
Epic Games Store’s Revenue Share
Epic Games Store, on the other hand, takes a 12% cut of every game sale. This means that if your game sells for $50, Epic Games Store will take $6, and you’ll get $44. Additionally, Epic Games offers developers a 20% higher royalty rate if they use the Epic Games Engine to build their game. This can be a significant advantage for developers who choose to use the engine.
| Game Price | Epic Games Store’s Cut (12%) | Your Revenue |
|---|---|---|
| $20 | $2.40 | $17.60 |
| $50 | $6 | $44 |
| $100 | $12 | $88 |
As you can see, Epic Games Store’s 12% cut is significantly lower than Steam’s 30% cut. This means that developers who sell their games through the Epic Games Store will keep a larger percentage of their profits.
Conclusion
When it comes to profit sharing, Steam takes a more significant cut than the Epic Games Store. This can be a major consideration for game developers, especially those who are looking to keep more of their profits. However, it’s essential to remember that Steam’s vast user base and extensive game library offer unique opportunities for exposure and revenue. Additionally, Steam’s fee structure is more flexible than the Epic Games Store’s, allowing for more customization options for developers.
When to Choose Steam:
- If you have a game with broad appeal and a large audience in mind, Steam’s vast user base may be the best choice.
- If you’re looking for a platform with extensive customer support and community features, Steam may be the better option.
- If you’re willing to adapt to Steam’s more rigid guidelines and community expectations, the platform can provide significant revenue opportunities.
When to Choose the Epic Games Store:
- If you have a game that is heavily focused on exclusive features or experiences, the Epic Games Store may be the better choice due to its lower revenue share.
- If you’re looking for a more flexible approach to pricing and revenue sharing, the Epic Games Store may be a better option.
- If you’re willing to forego the exposure and audience provided by Steam’s massive user base, the Epic Games Store may offer more consistent revenue and a stronger developer-focused approach.
Ultimately, the decision of which platform to choose depends on your specific needs and goals as a game developer. Both Steam and the Epic Games Store have their strengths and weaknesses, and each can provide unique opportunities for success. By understanding the revenue share and fee structures of each platform, you can make an informed decision and optimize your game’s performance and revenue potential.