The math on unplayed Steam “shame” is way off—and no cause for guilt
What is the purpose of the SteamIDFinder tool?
The SteamIDFinder tool, created by gaming news site PCGamesN, allows users to enter their numeric Steam user ID and view various statistics about their gaming library. This includes the total value of unplayed games, which can be shared as an image showcasing a user's "Pile of Shame." The tool provides insights into users' gaming habits and the value of their Steam collections.
How does PCGamesN estimate the total value of unplayed Steam games?
PCGamesN uses its web tool, SteamIDFinder, to estimate the total value of unplayed Steam games. They collect data from roughly 10 percent of the 73 million public Steam accounts in their database, which is then extrapolated to estimate the value of unplayed games in all Steam accounts1. They multiply the $1.9 billion estimated value from public accounts by 10 to suggest a total of $19 billion in unplayed games.
How does SteamIDFinder calculate the value of unplayed games?
SteamIDFinder calculates the value of unplayed games by using the current sale price of every game in your unplayed library6. It extrapolates the total value based on data from public Steam accounts in its database4. The tool then multiplies the estimated value by 10 to account for all the Steam profiles that are not public.