Introduction
Publishing a game on Steam is an exciting and rewarding endeavor, but it can be complex if not approached methodically. This guide will walk you through the steps necessary to develop, prepare, and publish a game on Steam, using a fictional game called “Shadow Quest” as an example. This guide assumes you have prior experience with game development and tools like Unity.
Game Development Process
Game Idea
Start with a unique and engaging game concept. For “Shadow Quest,” the developer focused on creating an atmospheric action-adventure game where players navigate a dark fantasy world, solve puzzles, and combat shadowy creatures.
Create a New Project
In Unity, create a new project and set up the necessary configurations. Import any existing assets or modules that can be reused from previous projects to save time. This can include character controllers, input systems, and UI components. For those new to game development, exploring different game engines can be useful. Here’s a helpful article on What is the Easiest Free Game Engine?.
Design and Code the Game Loop
Begin by designing the core mechanics of your game. In “Shadow Quest,” this includes player movement, combat mechanics, and puzzle-solving elements. Use placeholder art to prototype these features quickly and focus on coding the interactions between the player and the game world. For detailed comparisons between popular game engines, check out Unreal Engine vs. Unity: Detailed Comparison for Game Development.
Basic Art Assets
Develop and integrate basic art assets to establish the visual direction of the game. This includes creating character models, environmental textures, and basic animations. These assets help to visualize the game’s aesthetic and provide a foundation for further development.
Polish the Main Mechanic
Ensure the main gameplay mechanics are smooth and enjoyable. For “Shadow Quest,” this means refining the combat system, ensuring fluid character movement, and balancing the difficulty of puzzles and enemies. Extensive testing and iteration are crucial at this stage.
Add Content and Mechanics
Incrementally add new game mechanics and content. For example, introduce new levels, enemies, and puzzles. Test each addition thoroughly and remove features that do not enhance the gameplay. This step ensures that the game remains engaging and challenging.
Backgrounds and Environment Art
Design and integrate detailed backgrounds and environment art to enhance the game’s visual appeal. In “Shadow Quest,” this involves creating dark, atmospheric landscapes that complement the game’s fantasy theme. Pay attention to lighting and effects to create a captivating environment.
HUD Layout
Set up a basic HUD layout to display essential game information clearly and effectively. This includes health bars, inventory displays, and quest markers. Ensure the HUD is intuitive and does not obstruct the player’s view of the game world.
Logo Design
Create a simple yet effective logo that captures the essence of your game. Use tools like Krita or Photoshop to design a logo that is visually appealing and easily recognizable. Ensure the font and design are licensed for commercial use from sites like DaFont.
Music Selection
Source music suitable for commercial use and integrate it into the game. The music should enhance the game’s atmosphere and match the tone of the gameplay. Consider platforms like Pond5 or AudioJungle for music tracks that fit your theme.
Final Touches
Progression System
Implement a progression system to add depth to the game. For “Shadow Quest,” this includes unlocking new abilities, gaining experience points, and upgrading equipment. A well-designed progression system keeps players engaged and motivated to continue playing.
Testing and Polishing
Conduct extensive testing to refine gameplay, fix bugs, and balance the game. Polishing involves tweaking details to enhance the overall experience, such as improving animations, optimizing performance, and ensuring smooth transitions between game scenes.
Secondary Features
Add secondary features such as saving functionality, achievements, and localization support. Integrate the Steam API to manage achievements and cloud saves. Use localization tools to translate the game into multiple languages, making it accessible to a wider audience.
Preparing for Launch
Write Descriptions
Write detailed descriptions for various sections of the Steam page. This includes a concise game overview, key features, and system requirements. Use services like Gengo to translate these descriptions into all supported languages, ensuring your game appeals to a global audience. For guidance on creating comprehensive design documents, see the Ultimate Guide to Game Design Documents.
Presskit and Trailer
Create a presskit with high-quality screenshots, logos, and other promotional materials. Record game footage with OBS Studio and edit it with Shotcut or Openshot to produce a compelling trailer. Publish the trailer on YouTube to generate interest and excitement for your game.
Steam Page Setup
Design and set up the Steam page for your game. This includes uploading key art, writing an engaging game description, and setting up the pricing and release date. Ensure all visuals are correctly formatted and the information is accurate and appealing.
Publishing Process
Prepare the Build for Submission
Ensure all necessary files are included in the build and test the game thoroughly using the Steamworks SDK. This step helps identify and fix any issues that might arise during the review process.
Create a Steamworks Account
Sign up to become a Steamworks partner. Set up your account and verify your bank, tax, and company information to complete the account setup process. This allows you to manage your game’s presence on Steam effectively.
Pay the Steam Fee
Pay the $100 Steam fee for each game submitted to the platform. This fee is refundable if the game generates over $1,000 in sales, making it a low-risk investment for aspiring developers.
Complete the Steamworks Checklist
Follow the Steamworks documentation to complete all required fields, including store metadata, pricing, uploading builds, and setting up achievements. This ensures that your game meets all necessary requirements for a successful launch.
Download the Steamworks SDK
Download the latest version of the Steamworks SDK, which contains all the scripts and templates needed for building and uploading your product to Steam. Familiarize yourself with the SDK to streamline the submission process.
Upload the Game Build
Use the Steamworks SDK to upload your game build. Ensure the build is stable and thoroughly tested to avoid any issues during the review process. This step is crucial for a smooth and successful launch.
Set Up Achievements and Cloud Saves
Configure Steam achievements and cloud saves if your game supports these features. This enhances player engagement and retention by offering rewards and the ability to save progress across devices.
Configure Pricing and Regions
Set the price for your game and configure the regions where it will be available. Consider regional pricing strategies to maximize sales across different markets, ensuring your game is accessible to a diverse audience.
Submit for Review
Submit your game for Steam’s review process, which typically takes a few days. Steam will check for any issues or required changes, providing feedback to ensure your game meets their standards.
Address Feedback from Steam
If Steam requests changes or finds issues with your game, address them promptly and resubmit. This may involve fixing bugs, updating game metadata, or modifying store descriptions to meet Steam’s requirements.
Set a Release Date
Once your game passes the review process, set a release date. Ensure you leave enough time to build anticipation and gather wishlists from potential players. This helps create a buzz around your launch.
Prepare Marketing Materials
Create marketing materials, including social media posts, press releases, and promotional videos. Schedule these materials to be released leading up to and on the launch day to maximize visibility and engagement.
Run a Beta Test
Conduct a small beta test with a select group of players to gather feedback and identify any last-minute issues. Use a community platform like Discord to manage beta testers and collect valuable insights.
Build Hype Pre-Launch
Engage with your audience on social media, gaming forums, and through email newsletters. Share teasers, gameplay clips, and development updates to build excitement and anticipation for your game.
Launch the Game
On the scheduled release date, launch your game on Steam. Monitor the launch closely, address any immediate issues, and engage with your community for feedback and support. Celebrate your achievement and enjoy the fruits of your hard work.
Post-Launch
Monitor Feedback and Reviews
Keep an eye on player feedback and reviews. Address any issues and be responsive to your community, showing that you value their input and are committed to improving the game.
Update and Improve
Release updates to fix bugs, balance gameplay, and add new content based on player feedback. Ongoing support is crucial to maintaining player interest and ensuring long-term success.
Marketing and Promotion
Continue promoting your game post-launch. Reach out to influencers, run promotions, and keep your community engaged with regular updates and events. This helps sustain interest and drive sales over time.
Conclusion
By following these steps, you can successfully develop, prepare, and publish your game on Steam. The journey of creating “Shadow Quest” in Unity demonstrates that with proper planning and execution, it is possible to bring a polished game to market efficiently. Whether you’re an experienced developer or just starting, this guide provides a roadmap to help you navigate the complexities of publishing on Steam.
Q&A Section
Q: How long does the Steam review process take?
A: The Steam review process typically takes a few days. However, it can vary depending on the number of submissions Steam is processing at the time and whether any issues need to be addressed in your build.
Q: What happens if my game doesn’t pass the Steam review?
A: If your game doesn’t pass the Steam review, Steam will provide feedback on what needs to be fixed. You’ll need to address the issues and resubmit your game for another review.
Q: Do I need to form a company to publish my game on Steam?
A: No, you don’t need to form a company to publish your game on Steam. You can publish as an individual. However, having a company can provide certain benefits and protections, depending on your long-term goals.
Q: How do I handle taxes when selling my game on Steam?
A: Steam requires you to complete tax information during the account setup process. This information is used to comply with international tax regulations. It’s advisable to consult with a tax professional to ensure you handle your taxes correctly.
Q: Can I update my game after it’s released on Steam?
A: Yes, you can update your game after it’s released. Steam allows you to push updates to fix bugs, add new content, and improve the game based on player feedback.
Q: How do I market my game effectively on Steam?
A: Effective marketing involves a combination of a compelling Steam page, engaging trailers, and screenshots, as well as outreach to press and influencers. Utilize social media, participate in Steam sales, and engage with your community to build hype around your game.
Q: What are the costs associated with publishing a game on Steam?
A: The primary cost is the $100 Steam Direct fee, which is refundable if your game generates over $1,000 in sales. Additional costs may include marketing, localization, and any external assets or tools you need during development.
Q: How do I handle player feedback and reviews?
A: Monitor player feedback and reviews regularly. Be responsive and address any issues or bugs reported by players. Constructive feedback can help improve your game, so engage positively with your community.
Q: Can I release a game in Early Access on Steam?
A: Yes, Steam allows you to release games in Early Access. This can be a great way to gather feedback and build a community around your game while it’s still in development. Make sure to clearly communicate the state of the game and your development plans to potential players.
Q: What resources can help me with game development and publishing?
A: There are many resources available, including the Steamworks Documentation, Unity Learn, and various game development communities like r/gamedev. Additionally, you can find useful articles such as What is the Easiest Free Game Engine?, Unreal Engine vs. Unity: Detailed Comparison for Game Development, and the Ultimate Guide to Game Design Documents.
