Steam has hit a new high in user engagement, reaching a record peak of over 33 million concurrent users logged into the platform and nearly 11 million in-game, smashing previous records set in March 2023. This spike in activity may be partly due to the recent holiday season, with new Steam Deck units likely contributing to these numbers. Additionally, Steam's beta client now offers an option to hide games in users' libraries, providing more privacy. The Steam Awards also announced Starfield as the winner of the "most innovative gameplay" award, while Baldur's Gate 3 claimed "Game of the Year." The "Better with Friends" award went to the indie game Lethal Company.

What's the significance of Steam's new concurrent user record?

The new record of concurrent users on Steam is significant as it reflects the platform's growing user base and highlights the increasing popularity of PC gaming. This record demonstrates the success and impact of Valve's platform on the gaming industry, marking a strong start to the year and suggesting a continuing trend of engagement and growth within the Steam community.

Baldur's Gate 3, which won the Steam Award for Game of the Year, is an RPG from Larian Studios, known for their critically acclaimed Divinity: Original Sin series. The game is based on the Dungeons & Dragons 5th edition mechanics and set within the Forgotten Realms universe. Its deep narrative, complex character interactions, and expansive world-building have resonated with both fans of the genre and newcomers alike, garnering it critical and popular acclaim.