While social media is essential for reach, it’s not always reliable for building lasting engagement. Algorithms change, posts disappear, and conversations fragment. That’s why creating a central hub — a dedicated website — is a must for any serious game developer or publisher. Here’s how to build a web presence that connects everything and keeps your audience coming back.

  1. Establish a Clear Website Purpose
    Your site should act as the one-stop source for all things related to your game: news, downloads, updates, media, community, and support.
  2. Offer Rich, Searchable Content
    From patch notes and lore to dev blogs and FAQs, use structured, evergreen content that’s easy to find — unlike the fleeting nature of social posts.
  3. Integrate Media, Not Just Links
    Embed your trailers, livestreams, and social feeds directly into the site. This keeps users engaged without sending them elsewhere.
  4. Host Your Own Community Features
    Use forums, comment sections, and user profiles to retain interaction. Tools like Discourse or Flarum offer modern, self-hosted solutions.
  5. Run Your Own News Feed
    A blog or update feed, sorted by tags or categories, lets users follow development and announcements at their own pace — not dictated by social media algorithms.
  6. Add a Newsletter and Mailing List
    Email remains a powerful, direct channel. Offer subscribers early access, behind-the-scenes content, or free assets to encourage sign-ups.
  7. Build SEO Authority Over Time
    With consistent content and search optimisation, your website can rank highly in search results — bringing in organic, lasting traffic.
  8. Centralise All External Links
    Feature clear icons and calls to action for your Discord, Twitch, Steam, and press kit — but always frame the website as the central touchpoint.
  9. Offer Downloadable and Interactive Tools
    Make it a true hub by including maps, guides, or WebGL demos. This keeps users active on the site itself.
  10. Control Your Community Narrative
    A website lets you present your game on your terms — with no comment hijacking, ad clutter, or character limits.

Social media is an amplifier — your website is the foundation. Build that foundation first, and your online presence will be far stronger.

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