Why Blizzard Games are Not on Steam?
Blizzard Entertainment, one of the most renowned video game developers and publishers in the world, has consistently chosen not to release its games on Steam, the largest digital distribution platform for PC games. This decision has raised eyebrows among gamers and sparked heated debates on online forums and social media. In this article, we will delve into the reasons behind Blizzard’s reluctance to partner with Steam and explore the implications of this decision.
Historical Background
Blizzard was founded in 1991 and initially focused on creating real-time strategy games such as Warcraft and StarCraft. In the early 2000s, the company shifted its attention to massively multiplayer online role-playing games (MMORPGs) with the launch of World of Warcraft. This game became a massive success, and Blizzard’s revenue grew significantly.
Battlenet and Blizzard’s Digital Distribution Strategy
In 2004, Blizzard launched its own digital distribution platform, Battlenet, which allowed users to purchase and download their games directly from the platform. This move was a deliberate attempt to control the distribution of their games and maintain a direct relationship with their customers. By not relying on third-party platforms like Steam, Blizzard retained more control over the distribution, pricing, and update processes of their games.
Reasons for Not Partnering with Steam
Several reasons have contributed to Blizzard’s decision not to partner with Steam:
• Control and Ownership: By maintaining its own digital distribution platform, Blizzard can exercise greater control over its games, including pricing, updates, and content additions.
• Revenue Model: Blizzard generates significant revenue from its games, particularly World of Warcraft, and has no need to share profits with a third-party platform like Steam.
• Brand Identity: Partnering with Steam could lead to Blizzard’s brand identity being diluted, as users would be interacting with a separate platform rather than the Blizzard brand directly.
• Technical Integration: Integrating with Steam would require significant technical effort, which Blizzard might not deem necessary given its existing digital distribution infrastructure.
• Gaming Ecosystem: Blizzard has created a thriving gaming ecosystem around its games, including social features, esports, and community engagement. Integrating with Steam could disrupt this ecosystem and compromise the player experience.
Alternatives to Steam
Blizzard has chosen to partner with other digital distribution platforms, such as:
• Battle.net: Blizzard’s own digital distribution platform, which allows users to purchase and download their games.
• Activision Blizzard Store: A digital storefront launched by Activision Blizzard, which allows users to purchase and download games, including Blizzard titles.
• Other Digital Stores: Blizzard games are also available on other digital stores like GOG.com, Amazon Appstore, and Xbox Store.
Impact on Gamers
The lack of Blizzard games on Steam has both positive and negative implications for gamers:
Pros:
• Control and Ownership: By purchasing games directly from Blizzard’s platform, gamers can enjoy greater control over their gaming experience, including access to updates and patches.
• Brand Loyalty: Gamers who are loyal to Blizzard’s brand may prefer to purchase games directly from the company’s platform, ensuring a consistent and high-quality gaming experience.
Cons:
• Limited Options: Gamers who prefer Steam as their primary digital distribution platform may be unable to access Blizzard games, potentially limiting their gaming options.
• Price Competition: By not offering games on Steam, Blizzard may not be able to take advantage of Steam’s competitive pricing model, potentially limiting revenue.
Conclusion
Blizzard’s decision not to partner with Steam is rooted in its desire to maintain control over its games, revenue, and brand identity. While this approach may have some drawbacks, it has allowed Blizzard to create a successful digital distribution platform and gaming ecosystem around its games. For gamers, the choice of platform may depend on personal preference, with some preferring the control and ownership offered by Blizzard’s platform and others valuing the convenience and competitive pricing of Steam.