Steam now lets developers display the exact date of when their game leaves Early Access

Source: Engadget

New feature for Early Access games

Steam is adding a bit more transparency to Early Access titles. In a recent blog post, the platform introduced a feature that lets developers display the exact date when their game will leave Early Access and launch version 1.0. The option was created in response to developer requests for an official launch‑date display.

While Early Access gives eager players a chance to experience a game’s early stages and contribute to its development, some titles have remained in this phase for years. With the new feature, a precise launch date can appear on the store page just underneath the “Early Access” label. Developers may also choose to show a broader timeframe, such as only the expected release year.

Developer guidance

Steam emphasized that the feature is optional. As the blog post notes:

“Just because this feature exists, does not mean you should or must use it.”

The company also advises that developers should only provide a concrete date when they have a very high degree of confidence in meeting it.