How to Earn Wishlists Before Your Game Launches
A sustainable pre-launch plan focused on a clear promise, playable moments, and audience trust.
· 5 min read
Give players a reason to remember
Wishlists are earned when a player can name the experience they want later. Make that memory easy: a focused hook, a recognizable visual motif, and a clear release window. “Coming soon” is less helpful than a truthful season, year, or target date.
Create playable proof
A demo, playtest, short clip, or developer diary should answer a specific player question. Show how the game feels, how a session unfolds, or why a mechanic is different. End each piece with one relevant action: wishlist, join a test, or follow the project.
Build a return path
Collect only the contact information you can responsibly use and explain what updates people will receive. Post useful milestones: demo changes, a new system, a date, or a behind-the-scenes decision. A regular cadence beats a flood of near-identical announcements.
Publish a concise project listing on ShowGame as another place for future players to discover your game. Keep its description and release links synchronized with your main store page.