8. week

Playtesting

Individual Assignment

Mission Briefing

  1. Taste the playtesting.
  2. Master the methods of testing PC games.

Playtesting

In an ideal world, the playtester plays the game and comments on it out loud. At the same time, the observer observes it and takes notes. In ideal conditions, each student tries out the role of both a playtester and an observer. In our case, it is not possible, so try the role of playtester "remotely." The assignment is individual.

Attention, playtesting is not bugfixing!

==> Playtesting Lecture <==

If the game's authors give you instructions (e.g., record a video and comment aloud, fill out a questionnaire), work according to their instructions. If the game authors do not provide you with more detailed instructions, prepare a document in pdf format with the following structure (or your own structure, if you can create a better one):

  • Device: OS, screen resolution, etc.
  • Playtester: Similar to Persona, related to playtester's characteristics. What games do you play? What movies do you watch?
  • Playtesting:
    • Video - Each playtester will make min. 2 short videos of 1-2 min in length, where they comment aloud on playing the game. At least 2 comments should be positive and at least 2 negative.
    • Remarks: List of all comments (can also be those from the video), divided into positive and negative comments (at least 3 of each). If the observation is neither + nor -, mark it as Observation. Remember that positive feedback is also essential. Examples:
      • It was at the 2nd level that I discovered a map.
      • I like it when I can practice the level and the animals are always in the same place.
      • I'm not too fond of animals being in the same place every time. I'm bored.
      • The music was great, but after about an hour, it started to get on my nerves, and I had to turn it off.
  • Bugfixing: List bugs (if you find any). Most students manage this part excellently.

Mushroom Day question: What do you think about the level size and level length?

VR game survey: LINK (You should create a report without pictures and videos; and fill the survey)

Alternative game: LINK - the "game days" version (In case you are uncomfortable with VR, you can playtest this game, with pictures and videos)

A screenshot or a short video (gif) is appropriate additional information since it is crucial for the game's authors to be able to replicate problematic situations.

Submission

Submit the test results to the game authors according to their instructions (on discord, on GitLab, etc.).

Create file surname.pdf. In this file, record the playtesting you sent to the game's authors or a summary of your observations if you sent them to the authors in another form (discord, etc.). If you have created moving material not subject to an NDA (non-disclosure), please include the link(s) in the pdf file.

Assessment

Max. 2x 10 pts. The game's authors will suggest the number of points.

Deadline

Dec 04, 2025 (both reports). The assignment is individual.