Steam, the undisputed king of PC gaming, allows you to organize your extensive library in various ways. While you can't technically change the official name of a game as displayed by Valve, you can change how the game appears in your Steam library. This is incredibly helpful for clarity and personal organization. Let's explore the methods available.
Can I Change the Game's Name on the Steam Store?
No, you cannot directly alter the official name of a game on the Steam store. The title displayed on the store page is set by the game developer and publisher. This name remains consistent across all user accounts.
How to Change the Name of a Game in Your Steam Library
The good news is you can customize the way a game is displayed within your own Steam library. This is achieved through the use of custom tags.
Method 1: Using Steam Tags
This is the most straightforward and recommended method. Steam's tagging system allows for a high degree of personalization.
- Locate the Game: Open your Steam library and find the game you wish to rename.
- Right-Click the Game: Right-click on the game's tile.
- Select "Manage": From the context menu, choose "Manage."
- Select "Tags": In the "Manage" submenu, select "Tags."
- Add or Edit Tags: A window will pop up displaying existing tags. You can add new tags to the game. Simply type the desired name (or a descriptive tag) and press Enter. For example, if the game's official title is too long, you can add a shorter, more manageable tag like "Stardew Valley (Short)" or "SWV".
- Sort and Filter: Now you can filter and sort your Steam library by these custom tags, making finding your games easier. You can have multiple tags for a single game if you choose.
Method 2: Using a Third-Party Tool (Use with Caution)
While not officially supported, several third-party tools claim to modify game names directly within the Steam library. However, proceed with extreme caution when using such tools. Improper use can potentially damage your Steam client or even lead to account issues. Always research the tool thoroughly and ensure it comes from a reputable source before using it. Steam's built-in tagging system is generally the safer and more reliable option.
Why Would I Want to Change a Game's Name on Steam?
There are several valid reasons for renaming games in your Steam library:
- Clarity and Organization: Long or confusing game titles can make finding games difficult. Short, descriptive tags can streamline this process.
- Personal Preferences: You might want to use your own personal naming conventions or abbreviations.
- Improved Search: If you use a specific naming pattern or tag, it will improve the efficiency of your searching.
How do I Remove a Custom Tag?
To remove a custom tag, follow steps 1-4 above, then simply click the 'X' next to the tag you wish to remove.
What if I accidentally changed the game's name and want to revert it?
Simply remove the custom tags you added. The game will then revert to its original name in the library, as displayed on the Steam Store page.
By utilizing Steam's built-in tagging system, you can effectively and safely manage your game library without resorting to potentially risky third-party solutions. Remember to keep your Steam client updated for optimal performance and compatibility.
