How to refund WARDOGS on Steam (and the two-hour trap)
Standard Steam rules: under 2 hours played, within 14 days. Everything from the moment you press Play counts, including the shader compile and sitting in the server browser, so a launch-night "does it even run" test can burn 40 minutes before you've seen a match. Decide fast.
How to request it
- help.steampowered.com → Purchases → WARDOGS → "I would like a refund".
- Pick a reason (performance, not what I expected, etc.). It doesn't affect approval within the limits.
- Choose Steam Wallet (instant-ish) or the original payment method (up to 7 days).
Within the 2 h / 14 day limits, approval is automatic. Over them, it's manual review and usually declined unless the game is broken for you.
What counts as the two hours
- Shader compilation screen: yes.
- Main menu and server browser: yes.
- Queueing: yes.
- Time the game was crashed but Steam still showed "running": yes, until Steam notices.
So: don't preload, launch, alt-tab and forget about it.
Pre-purchase
If you pre-purchased and haven't unlocked, you can refund any time before release, no playtime question.
Supporter Pack
The pack is a separate DLC and refunds separately under the same rules. If you bought the Supporter Edition bundle, refund the bundle or the pack.
Before you buy, so you don't need this page
- System requirements: 16 GB RAM and a GTX 1660 / RX 590 are the floor, and it's CPU-heavy.
- It's PC only with kernel-level anti-cheat, no Steam Deck. Platform details.
- One mode and three maps at launch. If you need variety on day one, wait for a content update.
If it's crashing and you want to keep it
Most launch crashes are overlays or Easy Anti-Cheat and fix in minutes. Crash fixes first, refund second.
FAQ
Can I refund WARDOGS?
Yes, under Steam's standard policy: within 14 days of purchase and under 2 hours of playtime. Pre-purchases can be refunded any time before release.
Does the shader compile count as playtime?
Yes. Time on the shader screen, the menu and the server browser all count. If you're testing whether it runs, be quick.
Can I refund just the Supporter Pack?
Yes, DLC is refunded separately under the same rules, as long as the base game isn't past its limit.
Sick of full servers and queues?
Rent your own WARDOGS server from an approved host and play with your mates on your rules. UK/EU: QONZER (bare metal, no slot fees). Anywhere else: BisectHosting (21 locations). Casual group: xREALM (pay by the hour). Full comparison.