Recent research from GameDiscoverCo, in collaboration with Mod.io, highlights the continued influence of user-generated content (UGC) on the performance of video games. Building on a 2024 study, the updated analysis examines revenue, player retention, and DLC performance across PC, console, and VR platforms. The findings suggest that games with UGC support maintain stronger engagement and sales over multiple years compared to games without mod support.
UGC Remains a Key Driver in Games
Long-Term Revenue Benefits
The study analyzed roughly 1,200 Steam games released over a five-year period, each generating over $1 million in its first month. About 20% of these games featured official UGC support through platforms such as Steam Workshop, Mod.io, CurseForge, or publisher-run solutions like Paradox Mods and Bethesda Game Studios Creations. The results show that UGC-enabled games earned 8% more revenue in their first year and 31% more over a five-year span. This represents a slight improvement over the original 2024 findings, reflecting the inclusion of more UGC-supported titles and additional games reaching five-year maturity.
UGC Remains a Key Driver in Games
Retention Gains Across Years
Beyond sales, UGC appears to contribute to stronger long-term player retention. Using concurrent player data, the research found that games with UGC support maintained 75% higher concurrency two years after release, increasing to 115% after five years. While genre factors may influence these outcomes, specific examples underscore the effect of UGC. For instance, Larian Studios reported that Baldur’s Gate 3 experienced a 20% increase in daily active users after official mod support was introduced in 2024.
UGC Remains a Key Driver in Games
UGC and DLC Engagement
Some developers worry that free UGC could reduce interest in paid downloadable content. However, the data indicates otherwise. Games supporting mods generated 105% higher DLC revenue than those without, and examples like SnowRunner show that players who use mods are more likely to purchase official expansions. According to Saber Interactive, players engaging with mods were 2.4 times more likely to buy DLC, suggesting that UGC can complement, rather than cannibalize, paid content.
Expanding Analysis to Consoles and VR
For the first time, the research extended to console and VR platforms. On PlayStation, games with mod support showed a 16% player advantage one year after release, while on Xbox, the advantage reached 24%. In VR, titles on the Meta Quest Store with UGC support demonstrated approximately 30% median growth in player numbers over the past year compared to games without official mod support.
UGC Remains a Key Driver in Games
Why Developers Should Consider UGC
The findings suggest that supporting UGC can help extend a game’s lifecycle, improve player retention, and increase both revenue and engagement. From PC to consoles and VR, games that allow players to create and share content benefit from more active communities and sustained interest. While there are still questions regarding correlation versus causation, the evidence indicates that UGC contributes positively to overall game performance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is UGC in video games?
User-generated content (UGC) refers to mods, levels, characters, and other content created by players rather than the game’s developers.
Do games with UGC make more money?
Yes. The research shows that games with UGC support earn approximately 8% more in their first year and 31% more over five years compared to games without mods.
Does UGC reduce DLC sales?
The study indicates the opposite. Games with UGC recorded 105% higher DLC revenue, suggesting that mod engagement can drive additional purchases.
Is UGC effective on consoles and VR?
Yes. Games with mod support show a 16% player advantage on PlayStation, 24% on Xbox, and about 30% median growth in VR titles on the Meta Quest Store.
Why should developers include UGC support?
UGC can extend a game’s lifespan, boost retention, and encourage additional revenue through DLC, while fostering active and creative player communities.
