How to Review a Game on Steam: Why Do Cats Always Sit on Keyboards?

How to Review a Game on Steam: Why Do Cats Always Sit on Keyboards?

Writing a game review on Steam is an art form that combines personal experience, critical analysis, and a touch of humor. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or a casual player, your review can help others decide whether to invest their time and money into a game. But how do you craft a review that stands out? Let’s dive into the process, step by step, and explore why cats seem to have an uncanny ability to sit on keyboards at the worst possible moments.


1. Play the Game Thoroughly

Before you even think about writing a review, make sure you’ve spent enough time with the game. A superficial playthrough won’t give you the depth needed to provide a fair assessment. Try to experience all aspects of the game—main story, side quests, multiplayer modes, and any hidden features. This will help you provide a well-rounded perspective.


2. Structure Your Review

A good review has a clear structure. Here’s a simple template to follow:

  • Introduction: Briefly introduce the game and your overall impression.
  • Gameplay: Discuss the mechanics, controls, and how enjoyable or frustrating they are.
  • Graphics and Sound: Evaluate the visual and auditory experience.
  • Story and Characters: If applicable, talk about the narrative and character development.
  • Replayability: Mention whether the game has lasting appeal.
  • Conclusion: Summarize your thoughts and give a recommendation.

3. Be Honest but Fair

Your review should reflect your genuine experience, but avoid being overly harsh or excessively praising. If you encountered bugs, mention them, but also consider whether they were game-breaking or minor annoyances. Similarly, if you loved the game, explain why without sounding like a paid advertisement.


4. Use Humor and Personality

Steam reviews are known for their wit and humor. A well-placed joke or a quirky observation can make your review memorable. For example, if the game’s AI is particularly dumb, you could write, “The enemies in this game are so clueless, they make my cat look like a chess grandmaster.” Speaking of cats, why do they always sit on keyboards? Is it a secret plot to sabotage our gaming sessions?


5. Consider the Audience

Think about who your review is for. Are you writing for hardcore gamers, casual players, or people who are completely new to the genre? Tailor your language and focus accordingly. A review for a complex strategy game might delve into intricate mechanics, while a review for a casual puzzle game could focus on accessibility and fun.


6. Highlight Unique Features

What sets this game apart from others in its genre? Maybe it has an innovative crafting system, a breathtaking open world, or a soundtrack that gives you chills. Pointing out these unique aspects can help your review stand out and provide valuable insights to potential buyers.


7. Compare and Contrast

Comparing the game to similar titles can provide context. For example, if you’re reviewing a new RPG, you might compare it to classics like The Witcher 3 or Skyrim. This helps readers understand where the game stands in the broader landscape.


8. Mention Technical Performance

Technical issues can make or break a game. Discuss the game’s performance on your system—frame rates, load times, and any crashes or bugs. If you’re playing on a high-end PC, consider how it might run on lower-spec machines.


9. Keep It Concise

While it’s important to be thorough, don’t ramble. Aim for a review that’s detailed but concise. Most readers won’t have the patience to scroll through a 10,000-word essay, no matter how insightful it is.


10. Proofread and Edit

Typos and grammatical errors can undermine the credibility of your review. Take a few minutes to proofread your work before hitting “submit.” If English isn’t your first language, consider using tools like Grammarly to polish your writing.


11. Engage with the Community

After posting your review, engage with other users who comment on it. This can lead to interesting discussions and help you refine your opinions. Plus, it’s a great way to become part of the Steam community.


12. Update Your Review

If the game receives patches, DLC, or major updates, consider revisiting your review. This shows that you’re committed to providing accurate and up-to-date information.


Why Do Cats Sit on Keyboards?

While this might seem unrelated, it’s a question that plagues many gamers. Perhaps cats are drawn to the warmth of the keyboard, or maybe they’re trying to tell us something. Either way, their timing is impeccable—always when you’re in the middle of an intense boss fight or crafting the perfect Steam review.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How long should my Steam review be?
A: Aim for 300-800 words. It’s long enough to be detailed but short enough to keep readers engaged.

Q: Should I include spoilers in my review?
A: Avoid major spoilers. If you must discuss a plot twist, use spoiler tags to warn readers.

Q: Can I review a game I got for free?
A: Yes, but be transparent about it. Mention that you received a free copy, and ensure your review remains unbiased.

Q: How do I deal with negative comments on my review?
A: Stay calm and respectful. Engage in constructive discussions, but don’t feed the trolls.

Q: Why do cats sit on keyboards?
A: Science hasn’t figured it out yet, but we suspect it’s a mix of curiosity, warmth-seeking, and a desire to assert dominance over your gaming setup.


By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to writing Steam reviews that are informative, entertaining, and helpful to fellow gamers. And if your cat decides to join in, just remember—it’s all part of the experience.