
Steam’s January Demo Wave Shows Why Free Trials Are Shaping Modern Gaming
As 2026 begins, PC gaming is once again being defined by one simple concept: access. January’s wave of demos and limited-time trials on Steam is reinforcing a growing industry trend — players want to experience games before committing, and developers are increasingly willing to let them. In an era of rising game prices and crowded release calendars, demos are no longer nostalgic extras. They are becoming a strategic pillar of modern game launches.



