Finishing your first game is a major achievement, but completing development is only part of the journey.
The next step is publishing it so other people can actually download, install, and play it.
Publishing a game involves much more than simply pressing an upload button. You need to prepare the final build, test it carefully, choose the right platform, create store assets, write a game description, configure pricing, follow platform requirements, and support the game after launch.
A simple publishing process looks like this:
Finish Game → Test Final Build → Choose Platform → Prepare Store Assets → Create Developer Account → Upload Build → Complete Store Listing → Submit for Review → Launch → Support Players
This guide explains how to publish your first game step by step, whether you are preparing a PC, mobile, web, or console release.
What Does It Mean to Publish a Game?
Publishing a game means making a finished version available to players.
Depending on the platform, players may:
- Download it
- Install it
- Buy it
- Play it in a browser
- Access it through a digital store
A published game usually includes more than the game file itself.
You may also need:
- Game title
- Icon
- Screenshots
- Trailer
- Description
- Age rating information
- Privacy details
- Pricing
- Support information
The exact requirements depend on where you publish.
Step 1: Make Sure Your Game Is Actually Ready
Do not rush to publish as soon as your game becomes playable.
A playable game is not always a release-ready game.
Before publishing, check that the main systems are complete.
For example:
Main Menu
↓
Start Game
↓
Gameplay
↓
Win / Lose
↓
Restart
↓
Exit or Return to Menu
Your game should have a complete beginning-to-end experience.
Create a Release Checklist
Before publishing, verify:
- Core gameplay works
- Controls work
- Menus work
- Save system works
- Audio works
- Game can be completed
- Game-over state works
- Restart works
- Settings work
- No major crashes remain
A checklist helps prevent simple mistakes.
Step 2: Test the Final Version
Testing is one of the most important parts of publishing.
You should test the actual exported build, not only the version running inside your game engine.
Your final build may behave differently because of:
- File paths
- Permissions
- Platform settings
- Graphics configuration
- Build settings
- Missing assets
Test the Complete Game
Play the game from beginning to end.
Check:
- Movement
- Collision
- Levels
- Enemies
- Score
- Health
- Saving
- Loading
- Audio
- UI
- Pause
- Restart
Try to play like a normal user rather than like the developer.
Test for Crashes
Check whether the game crashes during:
- Startup
- Level changes
- Saving
- Loading
- Restarting
- Closing
A crash during the first few minutes can quickly create a bad first impression.
Test on Different Devices
If your game targets multiple devices, test as broadly as possible.
For PC:
- Different resolutions
- Different graphics settings
- Keyboard
- Controller
For mobile:
- Small phones
- Large phones
- Different screen ratios
- Different performance levels
Do not assume that because it runs on your machine, it will run everywhere.
Step 3: Fix High-Priority Bugs
You do not need to fix every tiny issue before launch, but major problems should be resolved.
Prioritize:
Critical Bugs
Examples:
- Game crashes
- Save data gets deleted
- Player cannot progress
- Game does not launch
These must usually be fixed before release.
Major Bugs
Examples:
- Important menu does not work
- Enemy AI completely breaks
- Level cannot be completed
These should also be fixed.
Minor Bugs
Examples:
- Small visual issue
- Minor animation problem
- Text misalignment
These may sometimes be fixed after launch.
Step 4: Optimize the Game
A game should not only work. It should also perform well.
Optimization may include:
- Improving frame rate
- Reducing loading times
- Reducing memory usage
- Compressing assets
- Removing unused files
- Reducing unnecessary effects
Players are less likely to continue playing if the game constantly freezes or stutters.
Check Loading Times
Long loading times can frustrate players.
Try to reduce unnecessary loading by:
- Compressing assets
- Loading only required resources
- Removing duplicate files
- Optimizing textures
If loading cannot be avoided, show a proper loading screen.
Check File Size
A very large game can discourage downloads.
Remove:
- Unused textures
- Old audio files
- Test scenes
- Duplicate assets
- Development files
Keep only what the final game needs.
Step 5: Create a Release Build
Your development build and release build are not always the same.
A release build should be configured for players.
You may need to disable:
- Debug tools
- Developer menus
- Test cheats
- Console logs
- Internal testing features
Your release version should contain only the features intended for players.
Add a Version Number
Use a clear version number.
For example:
1.0.0
This is useful when releasing updates later.
You might eventually release:
1.0.1
1.1.0
2.0.0
Version numbers make it easier to track releases and bug reports.
Step 6: Choose Where to Publish Your Game
The right publishing platform depends on your game.
Common options include:
- PC game stores
- Mobile app stores
- Web game platforms
- Console marketplaces
Your target platform affects the publishing process.
Publishing a PC Game
PC games can be distributed through digital game stores or directly from a website.
PC publishing may require:
- Windows build
- macOS build
- Linux build
You do not necessarily need to support all three.
For a first game, supporting one platform can keep things simpler.
Publishing a Mobile Game
Mobile games are commonly published for:
- Android
- iOS
Mobile publishing requires additional attention to:
- App icons
- Screenshots
- Permissions
- Privacy information
- Device compatibility
- Store policies
You should also test touch controls carefully.
Publishing a Web Game
Web games can sometimes be easier to distribute because users can play directly in their browser.
A web release might be suitable for:
- Puzzle games
- Arcade games
- Simple 2D games
- Game jam projects
However, browser performance and compatibility still need testing.
Publishing a Console Game
Console publishing is generally more complex.
Developers may need:
- Platform approval
- Developer registration
- Special development access
- Certification
- Platform-specific testing
Console publishing is often more difficult than releasing a small PC or web game.
Step 7: Create a Developer Account
Most major stores require a developer or publisher account.
You may need to provide:
- Name
- Business details
- Payment details
- Tax information
- Identity information
Requirements vary by platform.
Always use accurate information.
Step 8: Choose Your Game Name
Your game needs a clear name.
A good game name should be:
- Easy to remember
- Easy to pronounce
- Relevant to the game
- Distinctive
Avoid names that are too similar to existing popular games.
Before publishing, search the store to see whether similar names already exist.
Step 9: Create the Game Icon
The icon is one of the first things players see.
A good icon should be:
- Simple
- Recognizable
- High quality
- Easy to understand at small size
Avoid adding too much text.
For example, a racing game icon might feature:
One Car
+
Simple Background
+
Clear Contrast
rather than many tiny elements.
Step 10: Create Screenshots
Screenshots help players understand the game before downloading it.
Use screenshots that show:
- Actual gameplay
- Main mechanics
- Interesting levels
- Characters
- Important features
Do not use only menu screens.
Players want to see what the game actually looks like.
Step 11: Create a Gameplay Trailer
A trailer can significantly improve your store presentation.
A simple trailer might include:
Game Logo
↓
Gameplay
↓
Main Mechanic
↓
Different Levels
↓
Strong Final Scene
Keep it focused on actual gameplay.
Avoid spending most of the trailer on logos or text.
Step 12: Write the Game Description
Your game description should quickly explain what the player does.
A strong opening might answer:
- What type of game is this?
- What does the player do?
- What makes it interesting?
For example:
Explore a dangerous abandoned island, collect ancient artifacts, avoid deadly creatures, and uncover the secret hidden beneath the ruins.
Then explain key gameplay features.
Keep the Description Accurate
Do not claim features your game does not contain.
If your game is single-player, do not imply that it has multiplayer.
If it has five levels, do not describe it as a massive world.
Accurate descriptions help set the right expectations.
Step 13: Prepare Store Graphics
Depending on the platform, you may need assets such as:
- Game icon
- Header image
- Cover image
- Screenshots
- Promotional banner
Create these in the required dimensions.
Do not simply stretch small images because they can become blurry.
Step 14: Choose Free or Paid
Decide how players will access your game.
Common options include:
- Free
- Paid
- Free with ads
- Free with in-app purchases
For your first small game, the simplest model may be easiest to manage.
Free Game
Advantages:
- Easier for players to try
- Potentially more downloads
Disadvantages:
- No direct purchase income
Paid Game
Advantages:
- Revenue from each purchase
- Simple monetization model
Disadvantages:
- Players may expect a more polished experience
Free With Ads
Common in mobile games.
Ads may include:
- Banner ads
- Interstitial ads
- Rewarded ads
Avoid placing ads so aggressively that they damage the gameplay.
In-App Purchases
You may sell:
- Skins
- Coins
- Characters
- Levels
- Premium upgrades
Do not add complicated monetization systems unless your game actually needs them.
Step 15: Set the Price
If your game is paid, choose a reasonable price.
Consider:
- Game length
- Content
- Quality
- Genre
- Similar games
Do not price a very small beginner project like a large premium game.
Look at comparable games on the same platform.
Step 16: Add Age Rating Information
Many platforms require age-rating or content information.
You may need to disclose content such as:
- Violence
- Strong language
- Gambling-like mechanics
- Fear
- Mature themes
Answer these questions accurately.
Do not intentionally hide game content.
Step 17: Prepare Privacy Information
Privacy requirements are especially important for mobile and online games.
You should understand whether your game collects:
- Email addresses
- User IDs
- Location
- Analytics
- Advertising data
- Account information
If you collect user data, you may need a privacy policy and related disclosures.
Step 18: Check Third-Party Assets
Before publishing, confirm that you have permission to use everything inside your game.
This includes:
- Music
- Sound effects
- Fonts
- Models
- Textures
- Images
- Plugins
Do not assume that because an asset is available online, it is free for commercial use.
Check its license.
Step 19: Check Your Game Engine License
Your game engine may have its own terms.
Before commercial release, review the current licensing conditions for the engine you used.
This may include rules related to:
- Revenue
- Distribution
- Attribution
- Subscription plans
These terms can change, so check the latest official documentation before release.
Step 20: Upload Your Game Build
After your store page and build are ready, upload your game.
Depending on the platform, you may upload:
- Executable
- App package
- Bundle
- Web build
- Platform-specific build
Make sure you upload the correct release version.
Step 21: Test the Uploaded Version
If the platform provides a private or test mode, use it.
Install the game from the publishing platform itself.
This helps identify issues with:
- Packaging
- Installation
- File permissions
- Store integration
- Updates
A game that works locally may still have packaging problems.
Step 22: Complete the Store Listing
Before submission, check every section.
You may need to complete:
- Game title
- Description
- Category
- Screenshots
- Icon
- Pricing
- Privacy details
- Age rating
- Support information
Incomplete information can delay publication.
Step 23: Review Everything Before Submission
Before pressing Submit, verify:
Correct Build
+
Correct Name
+
Correct Screenshots
+
Correct Description
+
Correct Price
+
Correct Privacy Details
Small mistakes are much easier to fix before submission.
Step 24: Submit the Game
Once everything is ready, submit the game according to the platform’s publishing process.
Some platforms may review the game before making it public.
Review times and requirements vary.
If the platform rejects the submission, read the reason carefully and fix the issue.
Step 25: Choose a Launch Date
You may publish immediately or choose a specific release date if the platform supports it.
A planned launch gives you time to prepare:
- Social media posts
- Trailer
- Community
- Website
- Press materials
For a small first project, you can keep the launch simple.
Step 26: Create a Basic Marketing Plan
Even a good game can receive very few players if nobody knows it exists.
Basic marketing can include:
- Development screenshots
- Short gameplay videos
- Social posts
- Trailer
- Developer updates
You do not need a huge marketing budget for your first game.
Start by showing real gameplay.
Step 27: Build a Store Page Before Launch
When possible, prepare your store page before release.
This gives you time to:
- Improve screenshots
- Rewrite descriptions
- Share the page
- Collect early interest
Do not leave the store page until the last minute.
Step 28: Create a Simple Website or Landing Page
A small website can contain:
- Game name
- Trailer
- Screenshots
- Description
- Download links
- Contact information
It gives players one central place to learn about the game.
Step 29: Launch the Game
Once approved and ready, make your game available.
Your launch-day checklist can include:
Game Goes Live
↓
Check Store Page
↓
Download Game
↓
Test Installation
↓
Monitor Feedback
Confirm that players can actually access the game.
Step 30: Monitor for Problems
The first players may discover issues you never encountered.
Watch for:
- Crashes
- Save bugs
- Controller problems
- Performance issues
- Broken levels
Collect useful reports.
Step 31: Respond to Player Feedback
Player feedback can help improve the game.
Look for repeated complaints.
For example, if many players say:
The jump controls feel delayed.
that is worth investigating.
One unusual comment does not always require a major change.
Step 32: Release Bug-Fix Updates
After launch, you may need patches.
Example:
Version 1.0.0
↓
Bug Reports
↓
Fix Bugs
↓
Version 1.0.1
Keep update notes clear.
Step 33: Keep Backups
Before and after release, maintain backups of:
- Source code
- Project files
- Art
- Audio
- Final builds
Version control is also extremely useful.
Never rely on a single copy of your project.
Step 34: Do Not Upload Your Development Project Publicly by Mistake
When publishing, upload only what players need.
Do not accidentally include:
- Private API keys
- Internal credentials
- Secret files
- Developer notes
Review your release package carefully.
Step 35: Prepare Customer Support
Even a small game may receive questions.
Give players a way to report problems.
For example:
- Support email
- Contact form
- Community page
Ask for useful information such as:
- Device
- Game version
- What happened
- Steps to reproduce the issue
Publishing Your First PC Game
A simple PC publishing workflow looks like:
Finish PC Build
↓
Test on PC
↓
Create Store Page
↓
Upload Build
↓
Add Screenshots
↓
Set Price
↓
Publish
PC games should be tested with the hardware and controls you officially support.
Publishing Your First Android Game
A general Android workflow is:
Complete Game
↓
Create Release Build
↓
Configure App Details
↓
Prepare Icon & Screenshots
↓
Complete Store Information
↓
Upload
↓
Testing
↓
Release
You should also check:
- Permissions
- Screen sizes
- Touch controls
- Performance
- Device compatibility
Publishing Your First iOS Game
An iOS publishing workflow may include:
Prepare iOS Build
↓
Configure App Information
↓
Test on Devices
↓
Create Store Assets
↓
Upload Build
↓
Submit for Review
↓
Release
Follow the current Apple publishing requirements because platform policies can change.
Publishing Your First Web Game
A web game publishing process can be simpler:
Export Web Build
↓
Test in Browser
↓
Upload Files
↓
Create Game Page
↓
Publish
Test your game on multiple browsers and screen sizes when relevant.
What Should You Publish as Your First Game?
Do not wait until you have created your dream project.
A first released game can be very small.
For example:
Simple Platformer
+
5 Levels
+
One Character
+
Basic Sound
+
Score
or:
Endless Runner
+
Obstacles
+
High Score
+
Restart
Publishing a small game teaches you the complete process.
Why Publishing a Small Game Is Important
Many beginners repeatedly start new games but never publish anything.
Actually publishing teaches you:
- Final testing
- Packaging
- Store setup
- Screenshots
- Pricing
- Player feedback
- Updates
These skills are difficult to learn by leaving every project unfinished.
Common First-Time Publishing Mistakes
Publishing Too Early
Do not release a game with major unfinished systems.
Waiting for Perfection
At the same time, do not delay forever trying to make every tiny detail perfect.
Fix critical issues and launch a stable version.
Poor Screenshots
Your screenshots should clearly show actual gameplay.
Weak Description
Explain what players actually do.
Not Testing the Release Build
Always test the final exported version.
Ignoring Device Compatibility
This is especially dangerous for mobile and PC games.
Using Copyrighted Assets Without Permission
Always verify asset licenses.
Losing the Original Project
Maintain backups and version control.
No Plan for Bug Reports
Be prepared to release fixes.
First Game Publishing Checklist
Before launch, check:
Game
- Core gameplay complete
- Win/lose conditions work
- No critical bugs
- Good performance
Build
- Correct release build
- Version number added
- Debug features removed
Store
- Game title
- Description
- Icon
- Screenshots
- Trailer if available
- Pricing
Legal and Platform Requirements
- Asset licenses checked
- Privacy information completed
- Age rating completed
- Platform requirements reviewed
Testing
- Final build tested
- Installation tested
- Save system tested
- Multiple devices tested where necessary
How Much Does It Cost to Publish a Game?
Publishing costs depend on the platform.
Possible expenses include:
- Developer registration
- Store submission
- Hosting
- Website
- Marketing
- Artwork
- Age-rating processes
- Console development requirements
Some platforms may be inexpensive or free, while others require fees or additional approval.
Because platform fees can change, always verify current pricing before publishing.
Can You Publish a Game for Free?
Yes, depending on where you publish.
Some web and indie distribution platforms allow developers to distribute games with little or no upfront publishing cost.
However, development, assets, marketing, and other services may still cost money.
Do You Need a Company to Publish a Game?
Not necessarily.
Many solo developers publish games as individuals.
However, business requirements can vary depending on:
- Platform
- Country
- Revenue
- Tax situation
For a small first project, you may be able to publish as an individual where supported.
Do You Need a Publisher?
No.
A developer can self-publish a game.
A traditional publisher may help with:
- Funding
- Marketing
- Distribution
- Testing
- Localization
But working with a publisher usually involves an agreement covering revenue, ownership, responsibilities, or other terms.
For a small first game, self-publishing is often possible.
Should You Release Early Access?
Early access can be useful when:
- The core game is already playable
- You want feedback
- Development will continue
However, do not use early access simply to publish a severely unfinished project.
Players should clearly understand the state of the game.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I publish my first game?
Finish and test the game, create a release build, choose a distribution platform, prepare store assets, complete required information, upload the build, and submit or release it.
Can I publish a game by myself?
Yes. Many solo and indie developers self-publish their games.
Should my first game be free?
It can be free or paid. The right choice depends on the quality, size, audience, and your goals.
Do I need a publisher?
No. Self-publishing is possible on many platforms.
Can I publish a game made with Unity, Unreal Engine, or Godot?
Yes, provided you follow the game engine’s current license terms and the rules of your target distribution platform.
Can I publish a game without coding?
Yes. Games created with visual or no-code game development tools can also be published if the engine supports your target platform.
Should I publish my first game on mobile or PC?
Choose the platform that matches your game and that you can test properly. For a first project, limiting the release to one main platform can simplify the process.
What should I do after publishing?
Monitor feedback, investigate crashes and bugs, release updates when necessary, and learn from how players interact with your game.
Final Thoughts
Publishing your first game is the final step that turns a personal development project into something real players can experience.
A simple publishing workflow is:
Finish → Test → Fix → Optimize → Create Release Build → Choose Platform → Prepare Store Page → Upload → Review → Launch → Update
Do not make your first release unnecessarily complicated.
Start with a small finished game, test it properly, create clear store assets, follow platform requirements, and release a stable version.
Your first published game does not need to be your biggest or best project.
The important achievement is learning how to take a game all the way from development to an actual public release.
