Store algorithms and featuring
Front-page games
A spot on a store's front page can bring more players in a day than a month of ads. Some stores pick games by hand, with editors. Others pick them with algorithms that learn what each player likes. Kai wants Shard Garden's summer season on both.
Apple's editors
Apple: "there's no checklist of requirements for getting featured on the App Store", but the editors consider:
- User experience and UI designEasy to use, with great visuals and controls.
- Innovation and uniquenessA fresh approach that stands out.
- Accessibility"A great experience for a broad range of users".
- LocalizationHigh-quality support for many languages.
Quick check
Which of these is NOT on Apple's list?
- How much the studio spends on ads
- Accessibility
- Localization
Show the answer
How much the studio spends on ads
Apple's list is about the app and how it treats its players. Ad spending isn't on it.
Nominate early
Studios tell Apple about launches and updates through Featuring Nominations in App Store Connect. Apple: "please give our team a minimum of two weeks notice. For wider featuring consideration, we recommend submitting a nomination up to three months in advance."
Pick the date
The summer season starts on 1 June. When should Kai send the nomination, for the widest consideration?
- Early March, three months ahead
- Mid May, two weeks ahead
- On 1 June
Show the answer
Early March, three months ahead
Two weeks is the minimum. Up to three months ahead gives Apple's editors the most room.
Steam's algorithm
Valve: "Steam works to figure out who your game should be recommended to and who is most likely to purchase your game."
"Are people buying and playing your game? This is a strong signal to Steam that there is interest in your game".
Wishlists and money
"With a few exceptions like the Popular Upcoming tab, wishlists are not a factor in your game's algorithmic visibility on Steam." They still matter: wishlisters get an email at launch, and for discounts of 20% or more.
Can a studio pay for more visibility? Valve's answer: "Nope."
Quick check
A studio can pay Valve to show its game to more Steam players.
- True
- False
Show the answer
False
Valve says no. Players buying and playing the game is what earns it more visibility.
A fair price everywhere
Being seen is one half. The other is a price players in each country can pay.
Bolt says: Next: regional pricing.
Fact-checked 12 October 2026
- Apple: Getting featured on the App Store developer.apple.com
- Steamworks: Visibility on Steam partner.steamgames.com