The Ultimate Pre-Launch Checklist: Ensuring Your Game Is Wishlist-Ready on Steam

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Releasing a game on Steam is a huge milestone, but getting it ready for the spotlight takes careful planning. One key to success is making sure your game is “wishlist-ready,” which means it catches attention, sparks interest, and encourages potential players to click that coveted “Add to Wishlist” button. A strong wishlist count helps build momentum for your launch, leading to more visibility and better sales. Here’s a pre-launch checklist to ensure your game is wishlist-worthy:

1. Polish Your Steam Page


First impressions matter. Your Steam page is the first thing most potential players will see, so make sure it shines:

Compelling Game Description: Write a clear, engaging description that outlines the gameplay, story, and key features.

High-Quality Visuals: Include vibrant screenshots, GIFs, and trailers that highlight the best moments of your game.

Tagging: Use accurate and relevant tags so your game is categorized correctly and can be easily discovered.

System Requirements: List both minimum and recommended system requirements to avoid confusion later.

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2. Create an Eye-Catching Trailer


A well-made trailer is often the deciding factor for users scrolling through Steam. It should:

Show Gameplay Early: Don’t wait too long to showcase actual gameplay. Hook viewers within the first 10 seconds.

Keep It Short: Aim for a 1-2 minute runtime to maintain attention.

Highlight Unique Features: Focus on what makes your game stand out, whether it’s the mechanics, visuals, or story.

3. Optimize Your Store Page for SEO


Steam’s internal search engine rewards strong, relevant keywords. Use phrases in your game title, description, and tags that players might search for. Be mindful of the language your audience uses and include variations to cover different search habits.


4. Utilize Wishlists Early


Even before your game is fully ready for launch, having a “Coming Soon” page lets players start wishlisting. The earlier you have this, the more time you’ll have to build a fanbase. Plus, Steam algorithms love games with high wishlist numbers and engagement, which can push you up in the store’s visibility.


5. Plan for Community Engagement


Building hype before launch is essential. Engage your audience on social media, gaming forums, and through platforms like Discord. Regular updates on your game’s development can remind potential players to wishlist your game and keep them excited.

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6. Test, Test, Test


Bugs on launch can hurt your game’s reputation. Ensure your game is as polished as possible by running playtests and gathering feedback. Consider early access or beta testing to iron out issues before launch.

7. Set a Realistic Launch Date


Give yourself enough time to finalize the game, while also factoring in marketing efforts and review processes. A last-minute rush can result in missed details, so give your team breathing room to address any issues that arise before the big day.

8. Leverage the Power of Steam Events


Steam’s seasonal events, like Steam Next Fest, are fantastic opportunities to showcase your game to a broader audience. Participating in these events can drive more traffic to your game page and boost wishlist numbers significantly.

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A successful Steam launch doesn’t happen overnight. It’s a mix of strategic planning, community engagement, and perfecting the details. By following this checklist and ensuring your game is wishlist-ready, you’re setting yourself up for a smooth and successful launch.

Our GameInfluencer team will boost your steam wishlisting and drive targeted traffic to your Steam page, increasing conversions.

Together with our extensive network of gaming influencers, we run performance-base campaigns for your upcoming titles, encouraging players to add your game to their wishlists.

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