How to Review a Game on Steam: Why Not Add a Unicorn to Your Review?

Writing a review for a game on Steam is more than just sharing your opinion—it’s about contributing to a community of gamers, helping developers improve their work, and guiding potential buyers. Whether you’re a seasoned reviewer or a casual gamer, crafting a thoughtful and engaging review can make a difference. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to write a great Steam review, along with some unconventional tips to make your review stand out.

1. Play the Game Thoroughly

Before you even think about writing a review, make sure you’ve spent enough time with the game. A few hours might not be enough to fully grasp its mechanics, story, or replayability. Aim to complete the main storyline or explore a significant portion of the content. If the game is multiplayer-focused, spend time in different modes or with various players to get a well-rounded experience.

2. Structure Your Review

A well-structured review is easier to read and more helpful to others. Here’s a simple structure you can follow:

• Introduction: Briefly introduce the game and your overall impression.
• Pros: Highlight what you enjoyed about the game.
• Cons: Discuss any flaws or areas for improvement.
• Conclusion: Summarize your thoughts and provide a final recommendation.

3. Be Honest but Fair

Your review should reflect your genuine experience, but avoid being overly harsh or biased. If you didn’t enjoy the game, explain why without resorting to personal attacks on the developers or other players. Conversely, if you loved the game, don’t overlook its flaws—acknowledge them to provide a balanced perspective.

4. Focus on Specifics

Vague statements like “This game is awesome” or “It’s terrible” don’t help anyone. Instead, provide specific examples. For instance:

• What makes the gameplay engaging or frustrating?
• How is the story told? Are the characters well-developed?
• Are the graphics and sound design impressive or lacking?

5. Consider the Target Audience

Think about who the game is intended for. A hardcore strategy game might not appeal to casual players, but that doesn’t mean it’s a bad game. Mention whether the game is suitable for beginners, veterans, or a specific type of gamer.

6. Compare to Similar Games

If the game reminds you of other titles, mention them. Comparisons can help readers understand what to expect. For example, “If you enjoyed The Witcher 3, you’ll likely appreciate this game’s open-world design and narrative depth.”

7. Highlight Replayability

Replayability is a key factor for many gamers. Discuss whether the game offers multiple endings, side quests, or multiplayer modes that encourage repeated playthroughs. If the game feels repetitive or lacks content, mention that as well.

8. Mention Technical Performance

Technical issues can make or break a game. Comment on the game’s performance, such as:

• Are there frequent bugs or crashes?
• How well does it run on your system?
• Are the controls intuitive or clunky?

9. Use Humor and Personality

While professionalism is important, don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through. A touch of humor or a unique perspective can make your review more memorable. For example, “This game made me question my life choices—mostly because I spent 12 hours straight playing it.”

10. Include Screenshots or Videos

Visuals can enhance your review by giving readers a glimpse of the game. Steam allows you to attach screenshots or videos, so take advantage of this feature. Show off stunning landscapes, hilarious glitches, or intense gameplay moments.

11. Rate the Game

Steam uses a thumbs-up/thumbs-down system, but you can also include a personal rating in your review (e.g., 8/10). Justify your rating with the points you’ve discussed.

12. Update Your Review

Games often receive updates, patches, or new content. If your opinion changes after an update, consider revising your review to reflect the current state of the game.

13. Engage with the Community

After posting your review, engage with others who comment on it. Answer questions, clarify points, or discuss differing opinions. This interaction can make your review more valuable and foster a sense of community.

14. Why Not Add a Unicorn to Your Review?

Here’s where things get unconventional. While writing your review, consider adding a quirky element to make it stand out. For example:

• Write a haiku summarizing the game.
• Include a fictional backstory for your character.
• Rate the game based on how many imaginary unicorns it deserves.

This approach not only makes your review unique but also adds a layer of creativity that readers might appreciate.

15. Final Thoughts

Writing a Steam review is an art that combines honesty, creativity, and attention to detail. By following these tips, you can create a review that’s informative, entertaining, and helpful to others. And who knows? Maybe your review will inspire someone to try the game—or at least imagine what it would be like with unicorns.

FAQs

Q: How long should my Steam review be?
A: There’s no strict rule, but aim for at least a few paragraphs. Too short, and it might not provide enough insight; too long, and readers might lose interest.

Q: Should I mention spoilers in my review?
A: Avoid major spoilers unless you clearly warn readers beforehand. Spoilers can ruin the experience for others.

Q: Can I change my review after posting it?
A: Yes, you can edit your review at any time. This is especially useful if the game receives updates or if your opinion changes.

Q: What if I receive negative comments on my review?
A: Stay respectful and open to discussion. Everyone has different opinions, and constructive criticism can help you improve your future reviews.

Q: How do I decide between a thumbs-up and thumbs-down?
A: Consider your overall experience. If the positives outweigh the negatives, go for a thumbs-up. If the game has too many issues, a thumbs-down might be more appropriate.