Eighteen years of covering PC games have given PC Gamer lead reviewer Fraser Brown a unique perspective on what makes a title worth anticipating. Rather than focusing on the biggest blockbusters, Brown's Steam Wishlist leans into his preferred genres: first-person shooters, deckbuilders, and tactics games.
His list is a curated selection, acting as a personal bookmark for projects with open-ended development cycles or those that have flown under the radar. This approach contrasts with wishlisting major, well-known releases, which Brown tends to track through other means.
Among the titles mentioned are games that have been in development for years but lack a confirmed release date, such as Anvil Empires. While other anticipated sequels like Dawn of War 4 and Divinity are acknowledged, they don't typically make it onto his personal wishlist. This indicates a preference for titles that offer a more niche appeal or a longer development journey.
Brown's selection process highlights a dedication to the nuances of game development and a personal investment in titles that might not otherwise capture widespread attention. The list serves as a testament to the depth and variety of games available on PC, showcasing a discerning eye honed by nearly two decades of industry experience. As Steam continues to grow, with an estimated 110 new games added daily, such curated lists offer a valuable guide for players seeking hidden gems and long-term prospects within the vast digital marketplace.
While the article doesn't specify all 13 games, it emphasizes the editor's preferred genres and his strategy for using the wishlist feature. This includes keeping track of games with uncertain release windows and those that align with his specific taste in gameplay mechanics and themes. The underlying philosophy is to use the wishlist not just for immediate wants, but as a tool for monitoring promising projects that may take years to come to fruition, a strategy honed by extensive experience in the field.