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[SITUATION] · [ACTIVE] · [TECHNOLOGY]

2 clusters · 22 sources · 5 days · First seen · Last updated

Valve Steam submission process updates

Overview

Valve has implemented new requirements for game submissions on Steam to address significant delays in the review process. While the platform typically aims for a turnaround of three to five business days, submission surges have extended wait times to an average of 12 business days.

To reduce the frequency of re-reviews caused by functional issues, Valve introduced mandatory checks. Developers must now confirm that games run through the Steam client for at least five minutes to ensure proper integration, verify the inclusion of necessary redistributables like DirectX and Visual C++, and ensure Steam Cloud saves and achievements are functional.

New rules regarding store page imagery were also introduced. Developers are required to categorize screenshots into specific types, such as gameplay, concept art, menus, or cinematic sequences, with a minimum of five gameplay screenshots required. While Valve has not explicitly named generative AI as the cause, observers suggest an influx of AI-generated content has contributed to the increased volume and resulting bottleneck.

Entities

Steam · Valve · Gabe Newell

Timeline

  1. [TECHNOLOGY] 2 sources
    Valve updates Steam review process to address delays

    Valve is updating Steam's review requirements, including mandatory Steam-based play tests, to combat submission backlogs and delays of up to 12 business days.

  2. [TECHNOLOGY] 20 sources
    Valve updates Steam submission rules to address review delays

    Valve is updating Steam's review process, requiring developers to perform specific tests and categorizations to reduce review delays that have increased from 5 to 12 business days.

Sources

4p.de · automaton-media.com · be.com · br.ign.com · gamebusiness.jp · gamekapocs.hu · gameriv.com · games.tiscali.cz · gamesite.zoznam.sk · gamespark.jp · gamezone.de · ginjfo.com · ign.com.cn · invenglobal.com · it-boltwise.de · mercado.etc.br · pk.ign.com · pt.ign.com · shiftdelete.net · thegeek.hu · vandal.elespanol.com · webtekno.com