Steam has introduced a new feature allowing developers to display the exact date their game will exit Early Access and reach version 1.0 launch, as announced in a recent blog post.
The new feature is a response to developer requests for a method to show an official launch date for their games currently in Early Access. Early Access enables players to experience games in development and provide feedback, but some titles have remained in this phase for years without clear timelines. This lack of clarity has likely driven the demand for a feature that provides more transparency regarding launch expectations.
When enabled, the launch date will appear on the game’s Steam store page directly below the Early Access label. Developers have the flexibility to specify a precise date, a broader timeframe, or just the expected release year, giving them control over how much information they wish to disclose.
Steam emphasized that the use of this feature is optional. In the blog post, the platform clarified that “just because this feature exists, does not mean you should or must use it.” Developers are advised to provide a concrete date only if they have a “very high degree of confidence” in their stated launch timeline, ensuring that the information shared with the public is reliable.
