Console certification
Every gate has a queue
Course 1 showed console certification: tests like unplugging the controller mid-game. At studio size, the hard part is planning. Every store's review takes time, and a failed review takes that time again.
Steam's two reviews
Valve reviews the store page and the build separately. Each "typically takes 3-5 business days to complete, but we ask that you plan for at least 7 business days."
Quick check
Kai sets the new season for a Friday. When should Remy send the build to Valve's review?
- At least 7 business days before
- The day before
- On the Friday morning
Show the answer
At least 7 business days before
Valve asks for at least 7 business days, so a review that needs feedback still finishes in time.
What the build review checks
From Valve's list:
- It starts"Your product will need to start up properly."
- On every systemIt must launch on "all supported operating systems listed on the store page."
- As promised"All supported features listed on the store page will need to be implemented in the current build."
- Steam Wallet"Your product must use Steam Wallet for any in-game transactions."
Will it pass?
1Store page lists:2 Windows, macOS, Linux3Windows: starts4macOS: starts5Linux: crashes at launch
What happens at the build review?
- It needs a fix: it must launch on every system the page lists
- It passes: two out of three is enough
- It passes if Linux is fixed later
Show the answer
It needs a fix: it must launch on every system the page lists
The page promises Linux. Fix the crash, or take Linux off the page until it works.
Make the gate boring
Priya keeps a checklist for each platform, from its official rules. The pipeline runs the checks it can on every build, and people test the rest before each submission. Each plan includes time for one failed review.
Quick check
The store page can list a feature that arrives in next month's update.
- True
- False
Show the answer
False
Valve: every supported feature on the page must be in the current build. Add it to the page when it ships.
Labels for parents
Every store also shows an age rating, and more labels beside it.
Bolt says: Next: age ratings in depth.
Fact-checked 12 October 2026
- Steamworks: Review process partner.steamgames.com