As if we needed more ways to add games to our Steam library that we’ll never finish or even play. Steam is currently experimenting with a redesigned storefront menu as part of its latest beta update to help sell more games. Instead of being overloaded with text links and cluttered menu buttons in the current version, the redesign of the Steam store page brings everything together in a more polished and organized menu at the top.
In its blog post, Steam said that the redesign aims to “make it easier to access the places Steam users visit most often.” A new browse feature has been added to the top of the screen, allowing you to immediately search for games by such parameters as bestsellers, new releases, or discounts. The “Recommendations” button next to the review lets you see games Steam thinks you might like based on other games in your library, time spent playing them, or even community recommendations. The categories menu button will show you the most popular genres and offer some suggested tags to find similar games.
Steam has also updated its store search feature to show you the most popular searches, games you’ve recently browsed, and the most popular genres. There’s even an advanced search button for users who want to sort games by specific filters and tags. None of these features are new, but the new look of Steam makes it easier to access the most useful parts of the store page.
“With these changes, we aim to make your user experience smoother and more tailored to your needs,” Steam wrote in a blog post. “We’ve heard from players and experienced firsthand that some of the most visited areas of Steam have been difficult to access.”
We may be getting improved search functionality in the Steam store, but it comes amidst frustrations over a recent change in Steam policy. Earlier this month, Steam removed tons of games with adult content and foul language from the list to appease popular payment systems such as Visa and Mastercard, which drew criticism for setting a troubling precedent for censorship. Currently, the store page redesign is still in beta on the Steam client, where you can submit feedback to help shape the final look.
