Steam's Discoverability Challenge for Indie Developers

11 Dec 2025

Valve's Steam platform faces challenges in game discoverability, impacting developers and users. Despite having systems like Top Sellers and New and Trending, users often rely on content creators and social media for their game discoveries.

Platforms and Discoverability

According to Lambe, a developer working with Valve, Steam's attempt to aid discoverability surpasses other PC platforms but still misses out on casual exposure. The "Rule of Seven" suggests consumers need multiple points of contact before becoming interested, something better achieved through platforms like YouTube and Twitch.

Steam store pages are dense and more checkout-oriented, making it difficult for first-time visitors to engage. Many users first hear about new games from creators or trusted sources rather than the Steam storefront.

Early Access and Game Performance

Lambe points out that expectations about game performance upon leaving early access often don't match reality. While the common belief is that a full launch boosts sales, data shows only 20% of games actually perform better after leaving early access.

He emphasizes that discoverability is crucial, as many well-deserving games fail to reach their potential audience due to visibility challenges on the platform.

Improving Discoverability

For developers, leveraging content creators and social platforms can be a vital strategy for increasing visibility. Steam may need to adapt its discovery methods, focusing more on user behavior and less on curated lists and events.

Ultimately, Lambe's insights highlight that while Steam leads in some areas, there's significant room for improvement, especially in supporting indie developers who rely heavily on discoverability for success.

Steam Mover

Steam Mover download for free to PC or mobile

Easily transfer games between drives to boost load times and enhance performance.

2
629 reviews
3703 downloads

News and reviews about Steam Mover

27 Jan 2026

UK Court Advances $900M Lawsuit Against Valve

Valve faces $900M lawsuit in the UK over alleged price overcharging on its platform.

Read more

27 Jan 2026

Valve Faces £656 Million Lawsuit Over Steam Practices

Valve has been sued for £656M by an activist in the UK, who claims Steam's practices are anti-competitive.

Read more

27 Jan 2026

Valve Faces £656m UK Lawsuit Over Steam Pricing

Valve is sued in the UK for £656m over Steam's pricing practices, alleging dominance abuse and restrictive terms for publishers. Impact expected by 2024.

Read more

26 Jan 2026

Valve Faces £656m Class Action Over Steam Charges

Valve faces a £656m class action from 14 million consumers over alleged overcharges on Steam, certified by the Competition Appeal Tribunal.

Read more

26 Jan 2026

Valve Enhances Steam Client with Key Controller Updates

Valve updates Steam client: improves controller support, including Nintendo Switch 2. Introduces new features and fixes game issues.

Read more

26 Jan 2026

Developers Bypass Steam for More Control and Revenue

More PC games launch without Steam's help as developers seek control and higher profits.

Read more

17 Jan 2026

Steam Updates AI Disclosure for Game Developers

Valve updates Steam's AI disclosure form for developers, focusing on player-consumed content. Developers must ensure safe AI use.

Read more

07 Jan 2026

Demand for AI Disclosure in Gaming Grows

Epic vs. Steam: The debate on AI disclosure in games reflects tech ethics and consumer rights.

Read more

06 Jan 2026

Steam Hits 41.8 Million Concurrent Players on 2026-01-04

Steam's concurrent players reached 41.8 million on 2026-01-04, driven by popular games like Counter-Strike 2. Growth bolstered by console costs.

Read more

06 Jan 2026

Windows 11 Gains Popularity Among Steam Gamers

Windows 11 user base on Steam surged in December 2025, reaching 70.83%. The OS's growth outpaces Linux, as hardware and VR trends also shift.

Read more