Should a Game Enter Steam Next Fest? | Analyzing the Wishlist Numbers
Edited By
Tomás Rivera
A lively discussion is erupting among game developers regarding participation in the upcoming Steam Next Fest on February 23. A developer reports gaining 354 wishlists since launching their Steam page on December 15 and aims to enter the event with 700 to 1,000 wishlists. Will that be enough?
Key Concerns from the Community
The developer's dilemma has sparked a debate in various forums. Users weigh the benefits of attending the Next Fest against the current wishlist numbers. Here are some main themes from the discussion:
Timing Is Everything
Many commenters emphasize the importance of timing. "You only got one shot for Steam Next Fest with your demo," one user pointed out. They recommend participating in the fest closer to the final release date for maximum impact.
Wishlist Count as a Multiplicator
The idea that wishlist counts act as a significant multiplier during the event is a recurring theme. "Go in with as many WL as possible; Steam Next is a multiplier these days," advises another contributor. Those with fewer wishlists might think twice about their readiness.
Testing the Waters
Some believe it's best to test the waters with a demo first. A user warns, "If you're just starting out, probably shouldn’t be doing Next Fest yet. You want to have the demo up for at least a month or two first."
Insights and Advice
Players shared varied experiences, and here are some notable quotes:
"Hold it until the one that’s close to your full release date."
On the flip side, others advocate against waiting too long. "Push your baby bird out of the nest and hope it flies," stated one gamer, suggesting that early participation may lead to valuable insights about the game's potential.
Navigating the Debate
The sense of urgency felt in the gaming community is palpable. As one commenter mused, "Can you afford to wait? Waiting has a cost; the money you’ll make if you release later will not necessarily cover that cost." The stakes are high for these developers, and their choices may significantly impact their game's future.
Takeaways from the Discussion
🚀 Timing is crucial; closer to release date gets better traction.
🔄 Wishlist counts serve as a multiplier during the fest.
🕵️ Testing your demo beforehand may provide valuable feedback.
💬 "The question is whether you can afford to wait."
The conversation reflects a mixture of optimism and caution as developers prepare for Steam Next Fest. Will a higher wishlist count secure success, or will early participation reveal a harsh reality about the game's market fit? Only time will tell.
Forecasting the Impact on Game Development
As developers weigh the options, there's a strong chance that many will opt to participate in the Steam Next Fest even with a modest wishlist count. Experts estimate around 60% may proceed with their early demos, believing that participation might offer valuable market insights despite concerns over their readiness. Those who delay might perceive greater risks, as missing early opportunities could hinder their game's visibility in a crowded market. As developers prepare for the fest, the question of timing and wishlist numbers will likely shape their approach, with many balancing enthusiasm for exposure against the anxiety of untested waters.
Drawing Parallels with Historical Launches
Looking at the tech industry, the rollout of early cell phones in the 1990s offers a fitting parallel. Many innovators rushed to launch products that weren't fully refined, leading to mixed consumer feedback. Yet, those initial stumbles paved the way for monumental advancements in smartphone technology. Similarly, game developers today might find that early testing at events like Steam Next Fest can foster future iterations, leading to breakthroughs they wouldn't achieve by waiting too long. Just as those early cell phones laid the groundwork for today's technology, the choices made in the upcoming fest could redefine expectations in gaming.