Vadim Andreev, CEO of Rokky, claims that local game platforms in China and other regions provide significant competition to Steam. Rokky specializes in supporting game publishers to reach PC gamers beyond Valve's ecosystem.
Local Market Dynamics
Andreev asserts that while Steam remains a vital platform for digital PC games, it's not the sole focus. He emphasizes the importance of local platforms in regions like China, Eastern Europe, and Latin America, where they outperform in trust, loyalty, and payment preferences.
- Steam is essential for PC games but not exclusive.
- Local platforms excel in loyalty and payment behaviors.
- China's PC market is growing by 15%, contrasting with a global 2% growth rate.
Rokky's Strategy and Expansion
Rokky works with publishers to reach non-Steam platforms by distributing keys and aiding with marketing. It acquired a storefront, ChinaPlay, in 2025, which enhances its presence in the fast-growing Chinese market.
According to Andreev, leveraging local platforms is crucial for maximizing global revenue, challenging perceptions of a Steam monopoly. Rokky's study on market dynamics has fueled debate over Valve's dominance. Andreev concludes that for full global revenue, platforms beyond Steam are essential.
