With each new sales period, the Steam platform attracts millions of players looking for a good deal. However, behind the attractive discounts hides a persistent question among users: how to know if the price displayed is really advantageous?
It is precisely this question that was asked by an Internet user on Reddit, accompanied by a visual simulating a functionality allowing you to consult the price drops of a game over time. “Should Steam add price history to the game page in its store?” he asks, taking the example of Stardew Valleywhose normal price of £10.99 is currently reduced to £6.59.
A popular but controversial idea
The proposal quickly sparked contrasting reactions. Many players have expressed excitement about a possible pricing history feature, which would allow them to know if they are purchasing at the right time.
But others have pointed out the possible commercial consequences for Valve, the parent company of Steam. “It would be great for customers, but maybe bad for Valve,” one user opines, adding, “I bet it would actually reduce game sales in the long run because people would be better informed about the frequency of promotions and would be more willing to wait because they could make decisions based on historical trends.”
This fear is shared by other members of the forum, who highlight the potential impact on the studios. “I think this would have the effect of lengthening the interval between sales. I imagine it could further penalize developers who use sales as a promotional tool.”
A function already offered elsewhere
If Steam has not yet integrated this functionality, it already exists via external services like SteamDB or IsThereAnyDeal. These platforms allow you to visualize the price fluctuations of a security over several years. Some users therefore believe that it is not necessary to overload the native Steam interface.
“I think that the most favorable measure for consumers is always a good thing, but personally, I find that it is a little excessive”, nuance another Internet user. “If you’re really looking to know about the best deals, you’re probably already following platforms like Wario64, CAG, etc. (or the Reddit equivalent, I’m sure), which regularly flag up particularly good deals.”
Steam listening, but not on this point?
Valve has already proven in the past its ability to meet players’ expectations, with notable improvements in customer service or the refund system. But on the question of a price history, the publisher remains silent.
Until a possible change, users will have to continue to rely on external tools to find the best deals. A situation which only reinforces their demand: that of a more transparent display, directly in the store.