Today we’re going to talk about something we’re calling the Steam Greenlight Push. This trend is redefining how indie developers set up their games and even bundles. Whether you are a gamer or a developer this is a trend to look at.
The Steam Greenlight Push and Indie Bundles
Bundles are now being planned around getting games onto Steam. Many of you may have noticed that you received free Golden Jubilee Bundle keys. You may have also noticed at the time those games weren’t on Steam. You also probably noticed several are on Steam Greenlight. This is no coincidence.
The other example is the “Not on Steam Sale” which also has games ready to be put up. Let us not forget the “Green Light Bundle” either. So why does everyone want to be on Steam? Several reasons come up:
- Steam keys give extra legitimacy and appeal to a game
- The system gives practically free advertising, compared to more expensive methods
- Many of them promise keys to fans who support them early on
There are many more but these good reasons are why bundles are changing due to the Steam Greenlight Push. By offering their games for small amounts or for free they can increase their overall sales.
The Benefit of the Steam Greenlight Push for Gamers
So producers know why they need to be part of it. How can normal gamers profit from this? All you have to do is keep an eye on early developing games and support them. If you get in early you can not only get an inexpensive copy but also get another one on all the various game distribution platforms.
Why is there No Desura or Origins Push?
To their benefit and detriment Desura has an open door to developers. I personally have recently gotten into my Desura library lately and they have an excellent system. However it lacks the scarcity and elite nature of Steam. Origins doesn’t have this because, well, it’s run and controlled tightly by EA.
The Distribution Lesson
What we can all learn from this is that like it or not, game platforms are once again the present and future. If you are a PC gamer you have to accept it. Console gamers can avoid much of it but they have XBLA and PSN which serve the same function. This trend and the push to get in on these trends, are both only going to grow.
