It definitely helps. Every dev I've heard talking about releasing a game stresses wishlisting. I forget why, unfortunately. It might make it more noticable, sort of like likensub on YouTube.

I do know that refunding a game is the absolute worst thing you can do to it.

[–] Baleine@jlai.lu 9 points 2 months ago (3 children)

I think its because people who wishlisted will get a notification to buy it once its out, boosting the game's sales at launch, giving it a better chance to be featured on the front pages

[–] ObsidianNebula@sh.itjust.works 5 points 2 months ago

You're correct on the two thoughts you listed. Wishlisting also makes the game more visible before release. For example, highly wishlisted games appear in the "Popular Upcoming" section, along with some other spots. This increased visibility before launch then feeds into the two points you made. I believe games that are highly wishlisted before launch are also more likely to appear on the frontpage right after launch.

[–] w3dd1e@lemm.ee 4 points 2 months ago

This is what I assumed,but if it helps in any other way, I’m happy to wishlist more games from small time developers.

I use likes and subs liberally on apps like YouTube or TikTok, even if I wouldn’t normally want to subscribe. It costs me nothing to do and gives someone else joy. Why wouldn’t I?

Eh, it messes up my algorithm but I don’t care. These Corporations know too much about me anyway, might as well give them a curveball.

[–] TachyonTele@lemm.ee 3 points 2 months ago

Good catch, I didn't think about that.