The Performing Right Society (PRS) has commenced legal proceedings against Valve Corporation in respect of its use of PRS members’ musical works on the ‘Steam’ platform without permission.
The corporation, which operates the PC gaming download store, Steam, brands itself as the ultimate destination for playing, discussing, and creating games.
Music is vital to video games, and transforms play into emotional, immersive experiences. Video game soundtracks offered by the digital distribution platform which feature the music of PRS members include popular series titles such as EA SPORTS FC™, Forza Horizon and Grand Theft Auto. Since its launch in 2003, Valve has never obtained a licence for its use of the rights managed by PRS on behalf of songwriters, composers, and music publishers.
Dan Gopal, Chief Commercial Officer, PRS for Music said:
“Our members create music that enhances experiences and PRS exists to protect the value of their work with integrity, transparency, and fairness. Legal proceedings are not a step we take lightly, but when a business’s actions undermine those principles, we have a duty to act. Great video games rely on great soundtracks, and the songwriters and creators behind them deserve to have their contribution recognised and fairly valued.”
After having sought to license them for many years without appropriate engagement from Valve Corporation, PRS issued legal proceedings against Valve on 4 March 2026. Valve Corporation separately faces a £656m lawsuit in the UK over alleged unfair prices on its global online store, Steam, following a tribunal ruling that the case could continue.
