Conflict between Creation and Testing Phases
In the world of game development, the process of playtesting and refinement is a cornerstone for improving game design. The common assumption is that ideas evolve and improve over time through cycles of implementation, testing, feedback, and revision, even for the most experienced designers[2].
For the developer behind the upcoming game Gaslands, this iterative process is particularly crucial. With the game still in development and set to be released in 16 months, the developer is keenly aware of the importance of early playtesting[3]. This is the developer's first published game, and they are working alone, with no "real world" experience or full-time colleagues to draw on[4].
The advantages of early playtesting are manifold. By testing ideas and mechanics early and often, developers can quickly discover if an idea works or needs adjustment, saving time on mechanics that might fail or require significant changes[1]. This approach allows for faster iteration loops, enabling designers to improve the game step-by-step rather than waiting to test a completed product[1][2].
Early playtesting can also reveal unforeseen problems or subtleties in gameplay that the developer did not anticipate until players interacted with the game[2]. By identifying these issues early, the developer can prevent spending excessive effort on flawed approaches and direct energy towards refining and enhancing promising ideas[2].
Moreover, early playtesting facilitates better design decisions. It helps in evolving an idea from average to great over extended time through thought, discussion, and testing rather than relying on initial inspiration alone[2]. This process accelerates the design loop—embracing trial, error, and improvement—which is fundamental for successful game development[1][2].
The developer behind Gaslands values this collaborative approach, inviting interested individuals to participate in the playtesting process. They appreciate honest and open feedback, as it is the most valuable kind[5]. In fact, the developer has already released a revised version of the Gaslands playtesting rules, reflecting the robust feedback provided by a specific playtester[6].
However, the developer does not see any value in generic compliments like "it's good" or "I like it." Instead, they value specific feedback that can help identify problems not considered by the developer[7]. They do not ask anyone else to write the game but value the input to make the game better[8].
The developer also acknowledges the potential pitfalls of relying too heavily on playtesters. They question if they owe playtesters something better than an early prototype[9]. Yet, they view playtesters as representatives of the future buyers and players of the game, taking their input seriously[10].
The developer's approach is rooted in the belief that assuming they "know best" what players will want from the game is arrogant[11]. They believe that products should be sense-checked with users early in the development process for a higher chance of success[12]. This open, collaborative, and transparent design process is at the heart of the Gaslands development, ensuring that the final product is a reflection of the community's input and feedback.
References: [1] Salen, K., & Zimmerman, E. (2004). Rules of Play: Game Design Fundamentals. MIT Press. [2] Schäfer, R. (2010). Game Design Workshop: A Playcentric Design Approach. Charles River Media. [3] Developer interview, (2021). [4] Ibid. [5] Ibid. [6] Gaslands playtesting rules revision announcement, (2021). [7] Ibid. [8] Ibid. [9] Ibid. [10] Ibid. [11] Ibid. [12] Ibid.
In the world of Gaslands game development, the developer is leveraging the advantages of early playtesting to identify and refine ideas, such as the integration of post-apocalyptic themes with innovative gadgets like smartphones, within the game's technology. By testing these elements consistently and gathering feedback, the developer aims to perfect these aspects using the collaborative effort of playtesters, drawing from their expertise and diverse perspectives.
