Which ones are the top PC games by cumulative revenue? The video game industry is booming, with 2024 seeing a record number of titles vying for player attention and spending.
In this ever-evolving market, developers and publishers face an uphill battle against established platforms like Fortnite and Roblox, along with the juggernaut of annual franchise releases. So, the question remains: which ones are the top PC games by cumulative revenue? Are there any surprises lurking outside the shadow of the usual heavy hitters in 2024?
Read as well: What’s the most popular video game ever? A complete list
What “cumulative revenue” really means
“Cumulative revenue” refers to the total amount of money generated by a product or service over a specific period. In the context of PC games, it means the total revenue earned by a game since its release, including all sources of income such as game sales, in-game purchases, subscription fees, and other related transactions.
This metric provides a comprehensive view of a game’s financial performance over time and allows us to get to know the top PC games by cumulative revenue, rather than just focusing on short-term earnings or sales figures from a single period. Cumulative revenue is an important measure for understanding the long-term success and profitability of a game.
Top games by cumulative revenue in 2024
To shed light on the current market landscape and identify successful titles, we utilized the Game Performance Monitor to analyze the top games in 2024. Here’s a breakdown of the top performers across various categories:
Overall top 10 PC games by cumulative revenue:
It’s important to note that since it’s still June 2024, full-year data isn’t available yet. However, based on Q1 2024 reports, here are some of the potential contenders for the Top 10 PC Games by Cumulative Revenue for 2024:
- Helldivers 2: This sequel to the popular cooperative shooter “Helldivers” throws players back into a chaotic top-down action experience. Work together with friends or tackle missions solo as you fight off alien hordes and complete objectives in a destructible world. (Released in 2024)
- Fortnite: This free-to-play phenomenon continues to dominate the gaming landscape. With its ever-evolving battle royale mode, creative building mechanics, and a constant stream of new content and collaborations, Fortnite offers a unique and ever-changing experience that keeps players engaged.
- EA Sports FC 24: Formerly known as FIFA, this revamped soccer simulation title brings the beautiful game to life with realistic gameplay, updated rosters, and a variety of game modes to suit both casual and hardcore fans. Prove your skills on the pitch and build your dream team in EA Sports FC 24.
Here are some other titles that might be in the running, though specific rankings beyond the top 3 are difficult to confirm without full-year data:
- Hogwarts Legacy (released in 2023 but continues to sell well)
- Starfield (released in 2024)
- Resident Evil 4 Remake
- Sons Of The Forest
- ARMORED CORE™ VI
- STAR WARS Jedi: Survivor™
- Lethal Company
Regional differences:
When analyzing the top PC games by cumulative revenue, regional differences play a significant role in determining which titles dominate the charts. For example, while Fortnite enjoys widespread popularity globally, other games may see varying degrees of success depending on the region.
In Asia, titles like “CrossFire” and “Dungeon Fighter Online” often outperform Western games due to their local appeal and cultural resonance. Meanwhile, European and North American markets may show a stronger preference for sports simulations like “EA Sports FC 24” and action-packed titles like “Fortnite.”
The Chinese market, in particular, has a significant impact on global revenue standings. Games that cater to the preferences of Chinese players, such as “League of Legends” and “PUBG,” often see a substantial boost in their revenue figures. Similarly, mobile games that offer PC versions, like “Genshin Impact,” can also capture a large market share in regions where mobile gaming is prevalent.
5 success factors for these games
Several key factors contribute to the success of these top-grossing PC games:
1. Engaging gameplay
Games like “Fortnite” and “EA Sports FC 24” offer compelling and immersive gameplay that keeps players coming back for more. Whether it’s the fast-paced action of a battle royale or the strategic depth of a sports simulation, engaging gameplay is crucial.
2. Regular content updates
Successful games often feature regular updates and new content to keep the experience fresh. “Fortnite,” for example, continuously introduces new seasons, skins, and events to maintain player interest and drive in-game purchases.
Read also: How DLC boosts player engagement – a case study
3. Strong community engagement
Building a robust community is vital for long-term success. Games that foster a sense of community through multiplayer modes, social features, and active developer communication tend to see higher player retention and spending.
4. Monetization strategies
Effective monetization models, such as battle passes, in-game purchases, and exclusive cosmetic items, can significantly boost revenue. Games like “Fortnite” have perfected the art of balancing free-to-play access with lucrative in-game transactions.
5. Cross-platform availability
Games that are accessible across multiple platforms, including PCs, consoles, and mobile devices, have a broader reach and higher revenue potential. “Genshin Impact” and “Fortnite” are prime examples of games that have successfully leveraged cross-platform availability.
The future of top PC games by cumulative revenue
Looking ahead, the landscape of top PC games by cumulative revenue is likely to continue evolving. Several trends are poised to shape the future of the industry:
Emerging technologies:
Advances in virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) – and even IoT-based games – could lead to new gaming experiences that capture player interest and drive revenue. Games that successfully integrate these technologies may become the next big hits.
Cloud gaming:
Services like NVIDIA GeForce NOW are making high-quality gaming more accessible by removing the need for powerful hardware. This democratization of gaming could expand the player base and boost revenue for top titles.
Subscription models:
Subscription services such as Xbox Game Pass and PlayStation Now offer a library of games for a monthly fee, providing a steady revenue stream for developers and publishers. The success of these models could influence how future games are monetized.
Global market expansion:
As internet access and gaming infrastructure improve in developing regions, the global gaming market will continue to grow. Titles that can cater to a diverse international audience will have a significant advantage.
Sustainability and inclusivity:
Games that prioritize sustainable development practices and inclusivity may resonate more with modern audiences. Players are increasingly looking for games that reflect their values, and developers who adapt to these demands may see increased support and spending.
Meet Main Leaf Games!
In conclusion, while the current landscape is dominated by established titles and franchises, the future holds numerous opportunities for innovation and growth between the top PC games by cumulative revenue. By understanding regional preferences, leveraging successful strategies, and staying ahead of industry trends, developers can continue to create top-grossing PC games that captivate players worldwide.
And good news: if you dream of being a part of the history being made in the gaming industry, you should reach out to us right now. Here at Main Leaf, we are always ready to make your game come to reality and we are more than excited to see your game debuting as one of the top PC games by cumulative revenue in 2025!
