What is shovelware?

Shovelware is a derogatory term used in the software industry, particularly in the video game market, to describe low-quality, mass-produced software or games released in large quantities with little regard for quality or originality. These products are often characterized by:

Low Production Values: Often created with minimal budgets and resources. This can result in poor graphics, sound design, and programming.
Repetitive or Uninspired Gameplay: Shovelware titles frequently reuse existing mechanics or concepts without adding anything new or innovative. You can check more at https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Repetitive%20or%20Uninspired%20Gameplay.
Lack of Polish: Bugs, glitches, and overall lack of refinement are common.
Exploitation of Popular Trends: Developers may quickly create games based on popular movies, TV shows, or trends in an attempt to capitalize on their popularity.
Misleading Marketing: Shovelware is sometimes marketed deceptively, promising features or experiences that are not present in the final product.
Platform Saturation: Shovelware titles are often released in large numbers, flooding digital storefronts and retail shelves.

Shovelware harms the industry by:

Damaging Consumer Confidence: Poor quality software can deter consumers from purchasing games or software in general.
Diluting the Market: The sheer volume of shovelware can make it harder for quality titles to stand out.
Creating a Negative Perception of Certain Platforms: Some platforms, like certain mobile app stores or consoles with open development policies, have historically been associated with a large quantity of shovelware.

The term is primarily used pejoratively, highlighting the cynical motivation of some developers to generate profit by exploiting the market with low-effort products.