How to Review a Game on Steam: Why Pineapples Don’t Belong on Pizza but Do in Your Review
Writing a review for a game on Steam is more than just sharing your thoughts—it’s an art form. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or a casual player, your review can help others decide whether to dive into a new adventure or skip it entirely. But how do you craft a review that’s informative, engaging, and maybe even a little entertaining? Let’s break it down step by step, and yes, we’ll also discuss why pineapples might just belong in your review (but definitely not on pizza).
1. Play the Game (Yes, Really)
Before you even think about writing a review, make sure you’ve actually played the game. It sounds obvious, but you’d be surprised how many people try to review a game based on trailers or second-hand opinions. Spend enough time with the game to understand its mechanics, story, and overall experience. If you’re reviewing an early access title, mention that in your review to set the right expectations.
2. Structure Your Review
A well-structured review is easier to read and more helpful to others. Here’s a simple framework to follow:
- Introduction: Briefly introduce the game and your overall impression.
- Gameplay: Discuss the mechanics, controls, and how the game feels to play.
- Graphics and Sound: Evaluate the visual and auditory experience.
- Story and Content: If applicable, talk about the narrative, characters, and world-building.
- Pros and Cons: List what you liked and didn’t like.
- Conclusion: Summarize your thoughts and give a recommendation.
3. Be Honest but Fair
Your review should reflect your genuine experience, but avoid being overly harsh or overly praising. If you didn’t enjoy the game, explain why without resorting to personal attacks on the developers. Conversely, if you loved it, don’t just gush—explain what made it special.
4. Use Specific Examples
Instead of saying, “The graphics are amazing,” describe what stood out to you. For example, “The lighting effects during sunset in the forest biome are breathtaking, and the character animations are incredibly fluid.” Specific examples make your review more credible and helpful.
5. Consider the Target Audience
Who is this game for? Is it a hardcore strategy game that might not appeal to casual players, or a cozy indie title perfect for relaxing after work? Mentioning the intended audience can help readers determine if the game is right for them.
6. Mention Bugs and Technical Issues
If you encountered any bugs, crashes, or performance issues, include them in your review. Be specific about when and how they occurred, and whether they significantly impacted your experience. Developers often read reviews and may use this feedback to improve the game.
7. Compare and Contrast
Comparing the game to similar titles can provide useful context. For example, “If you enjoyed Stardew Valley, you’ll likely appreciate the farming mechanics in this game, though the combat system feels less polished.” Just make sure your comparisons are fair and relevant.
8. Keep It Concise
While detail is important, avoid rambling. Aim for a review that’s thorough but to the point. Most readers won’t stick around for a 2,000-word essay unless it’s exceptionally well-written.
9. Add a Touch of Personality
Your review doesn’t have to be dry and formal. Feel free to inject some humor or personal anecdotes. For example, “I spent three hours trying to beat the first boss, and when I finally did, I screamed so loud my cat fell off the couch. 10/10 would rage again.”
10. Rate the Game
Steam allows you to give a game a thumbs up or thumbs down. Make sure your rating aligns with your written review. If you’re on the fence, consider what ultimately tipped the scales for you.
11. Proofread Before Posting
Typos and grammatical errors can undermine the credibility of your review. Take a few minutes to proofread before hitting that submit button.
12. Update Your Review
If the game receives major updates or patches, consider revisiting your review to reflect the changes. This is especially important for early access games that evolve over time.
13. Engage with the Community
After posting your review, check back to see if others have commented or found it helpful. Engaging with the community can lead to interesting discussions and even help you refine your reviewing skills.
14. Why Pineapples Belong in Your Review
Now, about those pineapples. While they might be a controversial pizza topping, they can serve as a metaphor in your review. For example, “This game is like a pineapple on pizza—some will love the unexpected twist, while others will find it jarring.” It’s a quirky way to highlight divisive elements of the game.
15. Final Thoughts
Writing a great Steam review takes effort, but it’s a rewarding way to contribute to the gaming community. Your insights can help others make informed decisions, and who knows—you might even catch the attention of the developers themselves.
FAQs
Q: How long should my Steam review be?
A: Aim for 300-500 words. It’s long enough to be detailed but short enough to keep readers engaged.
Q: Should I mention spoilers in my review?
A: Avoid major spoilers unless you use a spoiler warning. Focus on your overall experience rather than specific plot points.
Q: Can I change my review after posting it?
A: Yes, you can edit your review at any time. This is useful if the game receives updates or if you want to add more thoughts.
Q: What if I didn’t finish the game?
A: It’s okay to review a game you haven’t finished, but be transparent about how much you played and why you stopped.
Q: How do I deal with negative comments on my review?
A: Stay respectful and open to discussion. Everyone has different opinions, and constructive criticism can help you improve your reviewing skills.