Coming up with a name for your game sounds easy—until you actually sit down to do it. For indie developers, your game name isn’t just a label. It’s the first impression, the elevator pitch, and often the key to getting noticed in a crowded market. With platforms like Steam, itch.io, the App Store, and Google Play overflowing with titles, your name needs to stand out—and fast.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the ins and outs of naming your game in 2025: what works, what to avoid, and how to create a name that sticks with players. Whether you’re building a pixel platformer, a mobile puzzle game, or a sprawling RPG, this guide will help you find the right fit.
Why Your Game’s Name Matters More Than Ever
Let’s be honest: you’ve poured hours (maybe years) into your game, and you want people to find and love it. A strong name can make a world of difference—not just creatively, but practically too. Here’s why your game’s title plays a massive role in your success today:
- Discoverability: Helps boost your search ranking on Steam, Google Play Store and app stores.
- Brand Recognition: Builds identity and player attachment.
- Memorability: If people can’t remember your game, they won’t share it.
- Uniqueness: Avoids legal headaches or being confused with similar games.
Step 1: Understand Your Game’s Core Identity
Before brainstorming begins, take a step back. What makes your game tick? Knowing your core identity helps you craft a name that fits naturally instead of forcing a clever-sounding title that doesn’t match your gameplay.
Ask yourself:
- What’s the genre?
- What emotions or themes does it explore?
- Who’s going to play it?
- Is it serious, goofy, mysterious, or whimsical?
Think about it: A chill mobile puzzle game might feel more aligned with a name like “Breeze Blocks” than “Warsteel Chronicles.”
Step 2: Explore Naming Styles
There’s no “correct” way to name a game, but there are patterns that work well. Exploring different styles can help you decide what fits your game best—and what your audience might love.
1. Single-Word Names
These are clean and impactful. They’re easy to remember and great for branding. Mario, Celeste, Limbo, Gris are some names that did wonder they are short and can be remembered life long.
2. Compound Names
These pair two words to build intrigue or describe the game world. For example: Stardew Valley, Dead Cells, Hollow Knight
3. Evocative Phrases
Phrases can sound poetic or story-driven, great for narrative-heavy games.
4. Play on Words
Wordplay adds personality and memorability. Great for casual or comedic games. For example: Untitled Goose Game, There Is No Game
5. In-World Terminology
Use unique names like Skyrim, Valorant, Hades from your lore or setting to establish immersion.
Step 3: Brainstorm With Intent
This is the fun part—but also where many devs get stuck. Instead of randomly guessing, organize your brainstorming to match your genre and vibe. That way, you’re not just throwing spaghetti at the wall.
Use tools like whiteboards, mind maps, sticky notes—or our Game Name Generator—to get rolling. Don’t self-censor early. Shoot for quantity first.
Pro Tip: Group your ideas into themes:
- Fantasy: Ember, Arcanum, Moonforge
- Sci-Fi: NEXUS, CryoPhase, Red Echo
- Casual: BubbleSnap, Cozy Cove, Stack Jam
Step 4: Check Availability
You’ve found the perfect name—but is it really available? Before you get too attached, do your homework to make sure you’re not stepping on toes.
Use this checklist:
- Search engines and Steam for existing titles
- App Store / Google Play search
- Domain check (like yourgamename.com)
- Social media handle availability
- Trademark database search (especially if you’ll monetize or scale)
Step 5: Test for Memorability & Appeal
Naming is subjective—but some names just click better than others. It’s time to test your top picks with real people.
A great name should be:
- Easy to say, spell, and remember
- Appealing to your audience
- Relevant to your game’s tone and content
- Not overly generic or forgettable
Want to check if your game title is memorable Try below options:
- Ask five friends to spell it after hearing it once
- Show your top three names and ask which they’d click on
- Say it out loud and imagine a YouTuber or streamer introducing it
Common Game Naming Mistakes to Avoid
Even seasoned devs fall into these traps. A great game name can tank if you ignore the little things that make a big difference.
Here’s what to steer clear of:
- Being too generic: “Zombie Shooter” won’t stand out in 2025
- Hard to pronounce: If people can’t say it, they won’t share it
- Too close to existing games: You don’t want to be confused with a AAA title
- Too long or clunky: Keep it snappy—ideally under 3–4 words
Bonus: Game Name Tips Based on Platform
Your naming strategy should adapt depending on where your game will live. Each platform has different player behavior and search habits.
For Mobile:
- Think short, catchy, and fun (Clash Royale, Candy Crush)
- Easy to type with thumbs
For PC/Console:
- You can go more thematic or abstract (Disco Elysium, Outer Wilds)
- Consider tone and storytelling depth
For Steam:
- Check for name overlap or clone games
- Avoid spammy-sounding or overly generic names
Final Thoughts
Your game name isn’t just a creative decision—it’s a strategic one. Done well, it becomes your game’s identity, and even part of its story.
So take your time. Explore different styles. Talk to players. Use tools like our Game Name Generator to jumpstart your creativity. A great name doesn’t just describe your game—it invites people in.
