Overview
Gabe Newell left Microsoft to make games. Half-Life proved Valve could compete with id. Then they built Steam—and changed everything. The digital distribution platform became PC gaming’s storefront, making Valve a gatekeeper while their internal development produced innovative titles at an increasingly glacial pace.
Fast facts
- Founded: 1996.
- Founders: Gabe Newell, Mike Harrington.
- Location: Bellevue, Washington.
- Known for: Half-Life, Steam, Portal.
Game development
| Title | Year | Achievement |
|---|
| Half-Life | 1998 | Narrative FPS |
| Counter-Strike | 2000 | Acquired mod |
| Half-Life 2 | 2004 | Physics, storytelling |
| Portal | 2007 | Puzzle innovation |
| Left 4 Dead | 2008 | Co-op zombie |
| Dota 2 | 2013 | MOBA |
| Half-Life: Alyx | 2020 | VR showcase |
| Achievement | Impact |
|---|
| Digital distribution | Industry standard |
| DRM solution | Publisher adoption |
| Community features | Social gaming |
| Workshop | Mod distribution |
| Market dominance | De facto PC storefront |
Source engine
| Game | Use |
|---|
| Half-Life 2 | Introduction |
| Counter-Strike: Source | Multiplayer |
| Portal series | Puzzle |
| Left 4 Dead series | Co-op |
| Third-party licenses | Wide adoption |
Corporate structure
| Feature | Unique aspect |
|---|
| Flat hierarchy | No managers |
| Desk mobility | Roll to projects |
| Project selection | Employee-driven |
| Valve Time | Notorious delays |
Hardware ventures
| Product | Status |
|---|
| Steam Machines | Discontinued |
| Steam Controller | Discontinued |
| Valve Index | VR headset |
| Steam Deck | Handheld PC |
See also