Playtesting

Playtesting involves real players trying out a (prototype of the) game to gather feedback about playability, balance, and the fun factor of the game. This iterative testing method is crucial because it shows developers what works and what doesn't in the design, allowing them to improve the game based on player feedback and ensure the game remains fun and intuitive.

Starting Points

• GameDeveloper.com – Design 101: Playtesting - understanding the importance and approach of playtests
• Medium – The Beginner's Guide to Playtesting Games - step-by-step explanation and best practices for playtesting

Key Points

• You plan structured playtest sessions and formulate concrete goals (e.g., testing specific gameplay components) and hypotheses.
• You collect both quantitative data (playtime, success rates) and qualitative feedback from testers and analyze this to identify pain points in the game.
• You demonstrate adjustments based on playtest feedback and reflect on how these improve the gaming experience.