Importance of playtesting in game design

The game development process is a complex and challenging process involving ongoing iteration and improvement in order to develop an exciting and captivating final product. One vital approach used during game development is playtesting. It is one of the best ways to improve the game quality by focusing on real player behaviour and learning what players really think about particular aspects of your game. Designers use this method to test different game versions frequently to find faults and provide input for improvements. So, what is playtesting and how is it an essential part of game development? Let’s find out. 

What is a playtest?

A playtest is a method to see what works in terms of gameplay mechanics. Game designers observe players testing games and the user experience in real time. They play an unfinished version of the game to identify issues like bugs, glitches and unclear objectives.       

Importance of playtesting in game design 

Playtesting is an essential part of game development because you have nothing more than a concept without it. It helps developers identify and fix gameplay issues, enhance user experience, and ensure that the final product is high quality. Game app developers can learn much about how players will respond to the game’s mechanics, controls, level design and other elements through playtesting. Based on this information, adjustments and refinements are made in order to improve the player’s overall experience. 

Playtesting in game design also helps designers give vital insights into what players enjoy and find frustrating about the game and what difficulties they might face while playing. These insights can help to fine-tune numerous game elements like flow, pacing, UI, difficulty balance, etc. 

Furthermore, playtesting can provide essential information on player behaviour, allowing to build games that are entertaining as well as profitable.

Different types of playtesting in game design

Gross playtesting

This type of testing consists of a group of testers who test the most basic functioning model of the gaming app. Here, the testers look out for the basic flaws in the game. The design team tests the game to check the gameplay and ensure it is smooth.

In-house playtesting

An in-house team or contract gamers of the company undertake this type of testing. They go through each part of the gameplay to make sure that the game runs efficiently and is exciting enough to attract a large number of players. 

Blind playtesting

During blind playtesting in game design, users who have never played the game before are asked to provide feedback. Many problems can be discovered during user testing that might otherwise go unnoticed by professionals.  

Final playtesting

The final playtesting method is conducted just prior to the launch of the game. On the basis of the suggestions of the testers, the focus is more on the aesthetic of the game instead of the game’s basic gameplay or level design. 

Playtesting in a game design is an integral part of game development that should never be overlooked. However, hiring a top game development company like Logic Simplified to handle the entire game development process is the optimal choice you can make. Not only do we have a talented team of testers, but also a team of game designers for hire, developers, and artists with hands-on experience in designing and building various games in different genres. From pre-production to the game's launch and even post-game launch, we will take care of all the game development services for you. To know more about us, contact us or drop us an email at enquiry@logicsimplified.com.