The Top 10 Games with Record-Breaking Concurrent Players on Steam
Steam stands as the premier platform for PC gaming, showcasing a multitude of titles that often transform into cultural milestones, either fleetingly or in a sustained fashion. Players frequently delve into the statistics of simultaneous users, whether to choose their next game or to gauge the current trends. These figures not only highlight major game releases but also underline significant moments in the gaming industry’s history.
Each record-setting peak is influenced by distinctive factors, ranging from years of buildup and captivating marketing to unexpected gameplay surprises. This article seeks to explore 10 games that have achieved the highest concurrent player counts on Steam, based on data from Steam DB charts.
10. Banana
All-Time Peak: 917, 272
| Developer | AestheticSpartan |
|---|---|
| Release Date | April 23, 2024 |
| Platforms | PC |
| Genre | Clicker |
Surprisingly, Banana—a clicker game revolving around harvesting bananas—generated an impressive 917, 272 concurrent players just two months post-launch. This phenomenon was primarily driven by the marketability of its digital drops, which could be sold for real money, enticing players looking to earn a profit. The game’s mechanics of collecting bananas and acquiring skins led to its viral success, even eclipsing notable titles like Baldur’s Gate 3 and Marvel Rivals.
9. Ring of Fire
All-Time Peak: 953, 426
In February 2022, Elden Ring, FromSoftware’s magnum opus, captivated 953, 426 simultaneous players during its second week after release. This action RPG synthesizes beloved elements from the Soulsborne series with accessible gameplay and an expansive narrative. Its complex storyline, vast open world, and challenging boss encounters, including the infamous Malenia, spurred widespread acclaim among players, making it a significant topic of discussion in the gaming community.
8. Cyberpunk 2077
All-Time Peak: 1, 054, 388
On its launch day, December 10, 2020, Cyberpunk 2077 faced a tumultuous debut, as the highly anticipated game recorded over 1 million concurrent players despite critical launch issues. After spending nearly a decade in development, the game’s release was marred by performance issues, prompting Sony to temporarily delist it from their store. Over the years, however, CD Projekt Red has diligently worked on enhancements, transforming the experience for players.
7. Dota 2
All-Time Peak: 1, 295, 114
Dota 2, released in 2013, remains a heavyweight in the realm of multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) games, demonstrating a peak of 1, 295, 114 players nearly three years after its debut. Frequent updates and an active esports community contribute to its longevity and continued player engagement. With over 100 distinctive characters, the game offers unparalleled gameplay versatility and strategic depth.
6. Lost Ark
All-Time Peak: 1, 325, 305
Lost Ark achieved remarkable success shortly after its February 11, 2022, launch, with a peak of 1, 325, 305 concurrent players. Its hybrid of MMO progression and action RPG mechanics drew in a large player base. Nevertheless, the game’s initial popularity waned due to grindy elements and pay-to-win features, though a dedicated core community remains, thanks to continuous updates and content offerings.
5. Monster Hunter Wilds
All-Time Peak: 1, 384, 608
Monster Hunter Wilds expanded the franchise with more user-friendly mechanics, resulting in a record peak of 1, 384, 608 players shortly after its release on February 28, 2025. The immersive open-world design and refined combat encouraged players to explore its dynamic environments, providing an engaging hunting experience that resonated with a diverse audience.
4. Counter-Strike 2
All-Time Peak: 1, 862, 531
Counter-Strike 2 launched as a free upgrade on September 27, 2023, and quickly captured players’ attention, leading to an all-time peak of 1, 862, 531 concurrent users just a few months later. The title’s longstanding appeal, amplified by its robust presence in competitive esports, has kept it relevant and engaging within the gaming community.
3. Palworld
All-Time Peak: 2, 101, 867
Upon its early access release in early 2024, Palworld ignited excitement among players, amassing 2, 101, 867 concurrent users shortly after launch. Labeled “Pokémon with guns, ”this survival multiplayer game encourages exploration and creature collection, mixing familiar mechanics with a unique twist. Its affordability and the influence of streaming personalities played pivotal roles in elevating its visibility and appeal.
2. Black Myth: Wukong
All-Time Peak: 2, 415, 714
Black Myth: Wukong drew widespread attention due to its breathtaking graphics and rich Chinese mythology when it launched on August 20, 2024. With a peak of 3.4 million players just two days post-launch, this action RPG immerses players in the story of Journey to the West, allowing them to conquer formidable bosses and collect powerful relics, further securing its spot among the top titles on Steam.
1. PUBG: BATTLEGROUNDS
All-Time Peak: 3, 257, 248
PUBG: BATTLEGROUNDS continues to reign supreme, boasting a staggering all-time peak of 3, 257, 248 concurrent players on January 13, 2018, shortly after its release in December 2017. This battle royale game sparked a global trend, inspiring countless variants that permeated the gaming landscape. While its player base may have declined, it retains a fiercely dedicated community, solidifying its status at the pinnacle of gaming.
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