The Difference Between a Wishlist and a Follow
Have you ever wondered what the difference is between a wishlist and a follow on platforms like Steam? While they may seem similar, there are actually distinct differences in their functionalities and implications. Let’s delve into the details to understand how they impact game developers and publishers.
Wishlist: Wanting to Buy
A Steam wishlist is essentially a way for users to mark their interest in purchasing a game. When someone adds a game to their wishlist, it means they want to buy it in the future. Wishlisters may be attracted to a game’s concept, graphics, or features and are waiting for the right time to make the purchase. They often receive notifications when the game goes on discount, making it easier for them to decide when to buy.
One important thing to note is that every wishlister receives an email notification when a game is launched, regardless of whether it is on discount or not. This makes wishlisting a powerful tool for game developers to reach potential buyers during the launch period. Offering a slight discount during the launch (such as 0%, 10%, or 15%) can entice more wishlists without giving away too much revenue.
Follow: Wanting More Information
On the other hand, a follow indicates that a user wants to receive regular updates and news about a game. When someone follows a game, they are interested in staying informed about its developments, updates, and announcements. This is particularly relevant for games that adopt a “Games as a Service” model, where updates and new content are frequently added to enhance the gameplay experience.
It’s worth noting that following a game does not result in a notification when the game is launched. However, if a user follows a studio or publisher, they will receive a notification when a new game from them is released. This means that followers are more interested in a brand or studio’s overall portfolio and want to be informed about their future projects.
Importance: Wishlist vs. Follow
When it comes to importance, wishlisting takes the lead. A wishlist indicates a higher level of intent to purchase, and game developers can leverage the email notifications to drive sales during the launch phase. Wishlisting serves as a strong indicator of potential buyers and can significantly impact the success of a game.
Following a game or studio is also valuable but mainly for receiving news and updates. It helps maintain engagement with interested users and keeps them informed about the developments in the gaming world. While it doesn’t directly drive sales, it contributes to building a dedicated community and brand loyalty.
In summary, wishlisting holds more weight in terms of driving sales, while following is crucial for keeping users engaged and informed about game updates and new releases. By understanding the difference between wishlists and follows, game developers and publishers can tailor their strategies to effectively engage with their audience and maximize their chances of success.
Sources:
howtomarketagame.com/2023/05/01/what-is-the-difference-between-a-steam-wishlist-and-a-follower/
https://gearsrealm.com/steam-visibility-algorithm/
newsletter.gamediscover.co/p/deep-dive-how-steam-followers-and