Epic is introducing some new self-publishing tools on the Epic Games Store, and sign-ups for the closed beta are now open. According to Epic, these new tools are designed to streamline the publishing process on the store.
What's changing about self-publishing on the Epic Games Store?
In a blog post on the official Epic Games Store website, the new closed beta and its terms are outlined. Epic describes these tools as a way for developers to set up and monitor product pages, achievements, pricing, builds, and more via the Store. If you're a developer and you're self-publishing, these tools are intended to reduce your reliance on the Epic Games Store crew, allowing you to have greater control over your project and how it's presented. Epic says the beta is intended to stress-test the toolset so it can be more useful for developers and publishers in the future.
Of course, there are a few terms and conditions you'll need to consider if you want to submit your game. First, it can't be "prohibited content" according to Epic. That means no pornography, nothing illegal, no hateful or discriminatory content, no IP you don't own, and no fake games or scams. You'll also need to ensure that if your game has multiplayer functionality, it supports crossplay across all PC digital storefronts. Finally, Epic says your game must "launch, run, and be consistent with" the product description you present to players via the product details page.
How do you sign up for the Epic Games Store self-publishing beta?
Signing up for this closed beta really couldn't be simpler. All you need to do is fill in this form and submit your content for consideration. If you're successful, Epic will be in touch in order to "begin the onboarding process". All submissions will be considered, so no matter how outlandish your game project seems, don't be afraid to send it off! If you're selected, you'll need to have your legal, tax, and bank details to hand so you can get verified. You'll then need to configure your game for the Epic Store and submit it for review. Once that's done, you're ready to launch!
There are plenty of reasons why the Epic Store might look attractive to developers for self-publishing. That 88-12 revenue split will be enticing to any small or solo developer, of course, but you also won't pay engine royalties if your game uses Unreal Engine and you sell it via the Epic Store. If you want to know more about publishing via the Epic Games Store, you can head here to read the FAQ.
Will you be participating in the new Epic Games Store self-publishing closed beta? Let us know in the comments below!
