Build Testing

Steamworks integration requires a correct setup of your game build and environment. This guide explains how to properly test your game, whether locally or through the Steam client, and addresses common pitfalls like crash-on-launch issues or unexpected behaviour.

Steam Dependency

A typical Steam-integrated game requires the Steam client to be installed, running, and logged in with a user who has access to the game's App ID. Without this, the Steamworks API will not initialise properly, leading to crashes or other unexpected behaviours.

Local Testing vs. Steam-Client Testing

✅ Dev Testing (Local Builds)

To test your build outside of Steam (e.g. before uploading via SteamCMD), you must place a steam_appid.txt file in the root of your game’s directory. This file should contain only your App ID as plain text.

• For Unity or Unreal Engine builds, place steam_appid.txt next to the executable.

• This allows the Steam API to initialise even if the game is launched from Explorer, terminal, or another non-Steam launcher.

📝 Example: steam_appid.txt Contents: 123456

✅ Build Testing via Steam (Recommended)

For proper integration and testing:

• Use SteamCMD (available in the Steamworks SDK) to upload your build to Steam.

• Set up beta branches to separate dev/testing builds from public ones.

• Add internal testers via the Steamworks dashboard.

This mimics the live environment closely and is ideal for identifying deployment issues before release.

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Common Pitfalls & Fixes

❌ Game Crashes on Launch

Cause: You’re running a local build without a steam_appid.txt, or it contains the wrong ID. Fix: Add steam_appid.txt with the correct App ID. If you’re using App ID 480 (Spacewar), be aware it's not suitable for production use.

❌ Game Tries to Download Spacewar

Cause: You’re using App ID 480 (Valve's sample game) without a valid deployment. Fix: Replace with your game’s actual App ID and set up the steam_appid.txt.

❌ Steam Relaunches the Game Automatically

Cause: Steam detected the game wasn’t launched via the client. Fix: This is intentional behavior (RestartAppIfNecessary). Use steam_appid.txt during dev testing or launch from the Steam client directly.

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Special Notes for Unreal Developers

Unreal Engine adds extra integration steps:

• Even if you're not using OnlineSubsystemSteam, you must still configure it. Epic defines required Steam config keys under that system.

• Make sure your .ini files are set up correctly (DefaultEngine.ini, etc.).

• In the Editor, Steam is often auto-handled, but for packaged builds, all config and steam_appid.txt must be present and correct.

Read the UE Configure Guide thoroughly before packaging builds.

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Internal Testing Setup

To test builds on Steam:

• Set up a beta branch or private test branch via the Steamworks backend.

• Add your testers via the "Manage Users & Partners" section.

• Ensure testers are logged into Steam with appropriate permissions.

Action	Required Setup
Local testing	steam_appid.txt in game root
Steam testing	Upload via SteamCMD, assign App ID
Avoid crashes / relaunch	Use the correct App ID and include steam_appid.txt When not launching via Steam
Unreal builds	Ensure .ini configs are correct even if not using OnlineSubsystemSteam

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Always test your final build in the same environment your players will use—via Steam. Catch issues early, avoid negative reviews due to startup crashes, and make use of Steam’s testing tools to ensure a smooth launch.

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