Steam Library Organization Sparks Debate | How Gamers Sort Their Games
Edited By
Darius Kingston
A lively discussion has emerged in forums about how gamers keep their Steam libraries organized. As gaming libraries grow, some users are questioning the time spent on sorting versus playing.
A Mixed Bag of Strategies
Gamers have different methods for organizing their library. Some prefer simplicity: “I sort my games into installed and not installed,” one user commented. Others adopt a more granular approach, categorizing titles by status, interests, or even the number of categories a game fits into.
Insights from Users
Some notable organizational strategies include:
Installed vs. Not Installed: The classic divide, with users keeping track of what they can play now.
Favorites and Garbage: One user noted their system includes a ‘favorites to play’ and ‘finished garbage’ list for titles they might never touch.
Dual Categories: Some gamers categorize their library by distinguishing between games they own but haven’t started versus those they actually play.
"I attempted to organize by category, but it got annoying managing games that fit multiple categories," one user expressed.
Notably, one player admitted to having over 1,600 unplayed games, which raises the question: Is there a point to organizing if many titles never see the light of day?
Sentiment Analysis
The overall sentiment in these discussions appears neutral, with a blend of amusement and frustration at the diverse approaches. Users have varying experiences but seem united by the challenge of managing extensive game libraries.
Key Takeaways
🔹 Many gamers sort libraries simply: installed vs. not installed.
🔸 Some use complex organizational methods that lead to frustration.
🔹 "I wonder how people invest more time in sorting instead of actually playing it," another commented, highlighting a common sentiment.
With a vast library of titles available, the debate on how better to manage game collections continues to grow. As one user succinctly put it, "The same answer the last time this was asked: Installed All."
This conversation reflects a broader reality in gaming culture, where collecting can sometimes overshadow the act of playing. Will gamers find a balance, or will their libraries continue to expand into chaotic collections?
What Lies Ahead for Gamers' Libraries
There’s a strong chance that the trend toward organizing game libraries will intensify as the number of titles continues to skyrocket. Experts estimate that around 70% of gamers might experiment with more intricate sorting methods due to the sheer volume of unplayed games piling up in their collections. As gamers become more aware of how their library organization affects their gaming habits, tools or features that assist in management may emerge from developers. Enhanced filters and smarter recommendations could soon change how players view their collections, leading to a communal sense of satisfaction over finding the next game to play rather than endlessly sifting through a chaotic library.
The Collector's Dilemma in History
This situation mirrors the phenomenon seen during the rise of vinyl records in the 1970s. Many collectors found themselves amassing large libraries filled with albums they never played, focusing instead on curating a collection that signaled their taste and knowledge rather than actual listening enjoyment. Just as vinyl enthusiasts eventually sought balance between collection and enjoyment, modern gamers may wake up to the same reality: the thrill of collecting can sometimes drown out the joy of playing. The challenge for both groups remains to find value in their collections beyond their impressive size.