The big question many PC gamers have been asking is: why is Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 Remastered not available on Steam? This controversial decision by Activision has left fans frustrated and confused. In this comprehensive guide, I‘ll break down the likely reasons behind this move and what it means for the future of Call of Duty on Steam.
Activision Prioritizes Profits
The main driver behind MW2 Remastered‘s absence on Steam comes down to cold hard cash. By selling the game exclusively through their own Battle.net service, Activision avoids paying Valve‘s 30% revenue cut on sales and keeps more profit.
This isn‘t a small amount for a AAA title. Based on the over 400 million copies sold across the Call of Duty franchise, Steam‘s revenue cut would add up to billions in lost revenue over time.
Financial filings back up that Blizzard‘s Battle.net digital revenues have been increasing as they publish more titles directly. While leaving money on the table doesn‘t please fans, it makes sense for Activision‘s bottom line.
Fragmentation Frustrates Fans
On the flip side, Call of Duty fans are left frustrated by this corporate decision. Many players have amassed a library spanning the series on Steam over the past decade.
MW2 Remastered‘s absence now fragments that collection across multiple PC platforms. Players responded with widespread complaints on Reddit, Steam forums, and beyond about managing different launchers.
Having to juggle games across Steam, Battle.net, and other PC stores is an inconvenience compared to the simplicity of one launcher. Activision chose profits over customer convenience.
Is the $70 Price Tag Reasonable?
Modern Warfare 2 Remastered launched at the new $70 standard price for AAA games. Fans debated whether this price was fair considering it is a reboot of a 12 year old game, albeit with improved visuals.
The common criticisms were:
- Remastered graphics don‘t justify full AAA cost for old content
- No multiplayer included like the original MW2
- Only a ~5 hour campaign
- Core gameplay and story haven‘t held up over time
However, supporters pointed out:
- Visual overhaul is significant at 4K resolution
- Excellent value for devoted Call of Duty fans
- Campaign was strong enough to still be enjoyable
- Nostalgia for the MW2 heyday makes it worth it
In my opinion, $40-$50 would have been a more appropriate asking price point to account for the re-release nature. But Activision knows fans will pay the premium.
Steam Deck Compatibility Issues
On top of not being on Steam, MW2 Remastered also has compatibility problems with the Steam Deck handheld PC.
The game‘s anti-cheat software does not work properly on SteamOS. Players have to install Windows on the Steam Deck through a dual boot setup to run MW2 Remastered.
This headache just adds insult to injury for Steam Deck owners excited to play the remaster portably. Lack of Steam integration causes unnecessary hurdles.
Call of Duty‘s Future on Steam
This situation raises questions around the future of Call of Duty on Steam now that Microsoft will be acquiring Activision Blizzard. Will future entries return to Steam or remain fragmented?
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Pro Steam: Microsoft could see value in maximizing reach across PC platforms and put games back on Steam.
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Pro Exclusive: But they also may decide to keep major titles exclusive to Microsoft-owned stores and platforms.
As a Call of Duty superfan who hates juggling multiple game libraries, I sincerely hope Microsoft brings the franchise back under one roof on Steam. This would redeem Call of Duty‘s faltering relationship with PC gamers.
But in the short term, MW2 Remastered‘s absence shows Call of Duty‘s glory days on Steam are likely over. Activision has made clear maximizing profits on their own terms takes priority over customer convenience and unity.
The Bottom Line
MW2 Remastered not being on Steam comes down to Activision prioritizing greater revenue and control on their own Battle.net platform above all else. This fragments the player base but lines corporate pockets.
The lack of multiplayer, high cost, and Steam Deck issues further aggravate fans. While the graphics are improved, gameplay frustrates many.
For diehard fans, the nostalgia may still make it worthwhile. But the goodwill towards Call of Duty on PC has taken a hit. Ultimately Activision put profits first, fans second.
