Valve warns Steam game approvals may take up to 12 business days
Valve says build reviews that normally take 3-5 days are now running up to 12 business days, citing re-reviews and a rise in submissions.
Valve published a blog post on November 3, 2026, warning developers that Steam's pre-release game approval process is running behind schedule. The company said it aims to test game builds within 3-5 days but is currently taking up to 12 business days.
Valve attributed much of the delay to having to re-review games. The company also said it has seen a significant increase in submissions for store page and build review in recent months.
In the post, Valve outlined tips and upcoming changes aimed at helping games pass pre-release review the first time. According to gamedeveloper.com, the guidance follows complaints from developers about waiting weeks for responses and rejections for reasons that were not always clear.
One game, Wheel Make It, reportedly failed approval because Valve could not figure out how to activate the listed local co-op, which involves two players sharing a keyboard. The case illustrates the kind of configuration details Valve is asking developers to clarify before submitting.
Steam NextFest recently doubled historical highs for game submission numbers during the event, adding pressure to the review queue.
Quick answers
How long are Steam game approvals taking?
Valve said builds are currently taking up to 12 business days, against a target of 3-5 days.
Why are Steam approvals delayed?
Valve attributed much of the delay to re-reviewing games and said submissions for store page and build review have increased significantly in recent months.
What is Valve doing to speed up Steam review?
Valve outlined tips and upcoming changes aimed at helping games pass pre-release review the first time.