Bellevue (WA) - Valve Software announced today that over 13 million users are now actively using its Steam digital distribution service. Initially used mainly as a platform to offer its own content, it has become a popular storefront for third parties as well.

Over 150 games are now available from Steam, with over 2500 updates served through the online platform since its launch in 2002.

"We’ve approached the development of Steam the same way we treat our online games ; we release something we’ve tested, we internalise feedback, and then we release new features and functionality based upon the feedback received," said Valve president Gabe Newell in a GamesIndustry.biz quote.

The online trade publication also reports that new major publishers are expected to make their debut on Steam in the next few months.