Publishing is making your game available for others to download. Each platform has its own store, requirements, and approval process.
- PC: Steam, Epic Games, Itch.io.
- Android: Google Play Store.
- iOS: Apple App Store.
Platform Comparison
| Platform | Cost | Approval Time | Revenue Split |
|---|---|---|---|
| Steam | $100 per game | 1–5 days | 70% to developer |
| Google Play | $25 one-time | Few hours | 85% on first $1M |
| App Store | $99/year | 1–2 days | 85% on first $1M |
| Itch.io | Free | Instant | You choose (recommend 10%) |
Publishing on Itch.io (Easiest for Beginners)
Itch.io is free and instant. Best for testing and sharing with friends.
Step 1: Create account on itch.io.
Step 2: Click "Upload New Project".
Step 3: Fill details:
- Project Title.
- Description.
- Upload your game ZIP file (PC build folder zipped).
Step 4: Set price (Free or paid).
Step 5: Click "Save & Publish".
Your game is live immediately. Share the link with anyone.
Publishing on Steam (PC)
Steam is the biggest PC game store. Process takes 1-2 weeks.
Step 1: Create Steamworks account ($100 fee).
Step 2: Fill tax and payment information.
Step 3: Upload your game build.
Step 4: Add store page:
- Description.
- Screenshots (minimum 5).
- Trailer (recommended).
- Capsule art.
Step 5: Submit for review (1-5 days).
Publishing on Google Play Store (Android)
Step 1: Create Google Play Console account ($25 one-time).
Step 2: Create new app.
Step 3: Fill store listing:
- App name.
- Short description (80 characters).
- Long description (4000 characters).
- Screenshots (minimum 2).
- Feature graphic (1024x500).
- Icon (512x512).
Step 4: Upload your AAB file (not APK for new games).
Step 5: Fill content questionnaire (age rating).
Step 6: Submit for review (few hours to 2 days).
Publishing on App Store (iOS)
Step 1: Join Apple Developer Program ($99/year).
Step 2: Create app in App Store Connect.
Step 3: Fill app information.
Step 4: Upload build via Xcode or Transporter.
Step 5: Submit for review (1-2 days).
Creating a Privacy Policy
Privacy policy tells users how you handle their data. Required by all stores.
Free generators:
- TermsFeed.
- Iubenda.
- FreePrivacyPolicy.
What to include:
- What data you collect (none if offline game).
- How data is used.
- Contact email.
Marketing Basics
Just publishing isn't enough. People need to find your game.
- Wishlists: Most important for Steam.
- Screenshots: First thing players see.
- Trailer: Under 1 minute, show gameplay.
- Social media: Twitter, TikTok, Reddit.
- Press/YouTubers: Send free keys.