Algorithms
Ongoing coverage on Algorithms.
Latest coverage
Another Steam page is being turned into an algorithm as Valve aims to show "10x more games to customers"
Valve is transitioning Steam's Discounts & Events page from a manual calendar system to an algorithm-based approach, aiming to showcase significantly more games to customers. While Valve believes this will improve discovery and benefit developers, concerns exist that algorithmic recommendations might limit exposure to games outside a user's usual preferences.
Steam's discounts and events tab will soon be fully algorithm-driven
Valve is transitioning Steam's "Discounts and Events" tab from a manually curated calendar to an algorithm-driven system. This change aims to personalize game recommendations for each customer, with initial tests showing a tenfold increase in games featured and significant boosts in store page visits and wishlists. While Valve states this will help developers focus on game creation rather than promotion, some industry figures like Simon Carless and Tim Bender of Hooded Horse have noted positive impacts on visibility for smaller titles.
The algorithm comes for Steam's Discounts and Events
Valve is changing how games are featured in Steam's Discounts and Events section, replacing curated spots with personalized recommendations driven by algorithms. The company claims this will increase visibility for 10 times more games, leading to more store page visits, wishlists, and cart additions. While some express concern about over-reliance on algorithms, the change is seen as potentially beneficial for indie developers seeking visibility.
Valve is changing Steam's homepage discounts and events section to go the way of the algorithm to get you to look at, and buy, obviously, more games
Valve is transitioning Steam's 'Discounts & Events' section from manual curation to a dynamic, algorithm-driven system. The company claims this change will personalize recommendations, leading to a 10x increase in games shown and meaningful growth in store page visits, wishlists, and cart additions. While Valve believes this will benefit customers and developers, the article expresses hesitation about the increased reliance on algorithms and potential negative impacts on smaller developers.
Roblox causes Wall Street value estimators to cry themselves a $9 billion puddle, as a result of pushing less kids towards aggressively monetised viral games
Roblox Corporation's market valuation dropped by $9 billion after its second-quarter financial results revealed a significant decrease in player spending, particularly among younger demographics. This decline is attributed to a shift in the platform's algorithm, which now prioritizes long-term player retention over aggressive short-term monetization strategies. The company's chief financial officer, Naveen Chopra, noted that investments in AI initiatives are expected to increase infrastructure costs.
The industry makes great games, but nobody can find them
Industry professionals at the Madeira Games Summit identified discoverability as a critical issue, stating that current algorithms favor volume and short-term engagement over quality, burying unique games. The problem is exacerbated by a lack of financial motivation to fix the system, leading to a focus on optimizing for metrics rather than creating compelling experiences. Solutions proposed include platforms offering better analytics and curation, publishers focusing on niche identities, and developers prioritizing community building and creative risks.
Table Selection Algorithms: Turning Player Pool Data Into Profit
This article details how professional poker players use data analysis and algorithms to select the most profitable tables and seats. By analyzing player statistics such as VPIP and PFR, players can create profiles to identify weak opponents and optimize their game for maximum profit. The use of tracking software and advanced metrics, including cryptocurrency transaction data, is becoming increasingly crucial for gaining a competitive edge.
Steam's Wild Week: Pottery Brawler Flops While Old Games Get Mysterious Second Wind | HappyGamer
Steam experienced a turbulent week with the underperformance of the multiplayer pottery brawler Kiln, while older games saw unexpected surges in popularity. Developers are grappling with the unpredictable nature of Steam's discovery algorithms and the challenges of launching new titles. The article highlights the importance of strong execution, community building, and adaptability for indie developers navigating the platform's evolving dynamics.
