PS5 can now show player counts for top PlayStation games, exposing Steam-like data

Often, when an anticipated title launches on Steam, fans use player counts to judge its success. Similar concurrent user (CCU) data is much less accessible on consoles. However, a new beta PS5 feature reveals how many gamers are playing the top 10 and trending games.

The revamped Welcome Hub

On a recent podcast, YouTuber Mystic discussed the Welcome Hub currently in testing. Gamers can choose to see a week’s 10 most popular PlayStation games or which additions are trending. What’s significant is that player counts, normally difficult to gauge, are also visible.

Maki on the ResetEra forums shared statistics showing Fortnite dominating with 14.6 million users in the past 7 days. GTA 5, Call of Duty, and Minecraft are all around the 5 million mark.

Unfortunately, it doesn’t seem that all PS5 games sold on the PS Store or at retailers are considered. One poster noted that ultra-popular Roblox is missing, as are live-service sports titles like NBA 2K. It’s unclear how Sony makes the lists, but revenue or whether a publisher opts in may be factors.

As Mystic explained, another issue is that the same top PlayStation games could appear every week. New releases would struggle to place unless they draw massive audiences. That’s a risk with the top 10 option, though the trending category may offer more variety.

An alternative to shady sales data

While SteamDB displays CCU data from Valve, console supporters must rely on third parties. Alinea Analytics at least offers sales projections, but doesn’t fully disclose its methodology. PS Store best sellers and even user review counts are likely sources.

Even with limitations, the updated PS5 Welcome Hub provides rare player count insights. For some multi-platform Steam games, followers can gain a more complete picture of overall engagement.