Testing Your Game Prototypes: A Guide for Clients

In game development, the difference between a "good" game and a "great" game lies in the quality of the prototype phase. At Softsasi, we provide you with early-stage, playable builds (prototypes) so you can test the gameplay mechanics, controls, and performance before we invest in final high-fidelity assets. This guide explains how to effectively test your game prototypes using our Project Workspace.

 

1. The Value of the PrototypeA prototype is an experimental version of your game used to test ideas. It may lack final graphics, music, or a polished UI, but it contains the "Core Loop" (the main action the player performs).
Why We Prototype:

• Mechanical Validation: Does the jump feel right? Is the combat satisfying?
• Performance Benchmarking: Does the game run smoothly on your specific mobile device or PC?
• Risk Mitigation: It’s easier and cheaper to change a gameplay mechanic in a prototype than in a finished product.

2. How to Access and Install Your BuildDepending on your platform, we deliver prototypes through the following channels:

• Android (APK): Direct download from your Softsasi Workspace. You may need to enable "Install from Unknown Sources" in your phone settings.
• iOS (TestFlight): We will invite you via email to the Apple TestFlight app. This allows you to install beta builds directly from Apple’s servers.
• PC/Desktop (.exe/.zip): We provide a downloadable package that you can run on Windows or macOS.
• Web (WebGL): A direct URL where you can play the game in your browser—ideal for quick mechanical checks.

3. The Testing WorkflowWe recommend a structured approach to testing. Don't just "play"—investigate.
Step 1: Functional TestingDoes everything work?

• Try every button on the screen.
• Go "out of bounds" or try to do things the game doesn't expect.
• Check if the game saves your progress correctly.

Step 2: Performance Testing

• Frame Rate: Does the game stutter or lag during intense action?
• Battery & Heat: Does your device get unusually hot after 5 minutes of play?
• Load Times: How long does it take to move between levels?

Step 3: Mechanical "Feel"This is subjective but critical.

• Is the difficulty curve too steep?
• Are the touch controls responsive, or are they too "floaty"?

4. Reporting Feedback in the WorkspaceYour Softsasi Kanban Board is the central hub for your feedback.

1. Identify the Column: Look for the "Prototype Feedback" or "Bug Reports" column.
2. Add a Task: Click the "+ Add Task" button.
3. Be Specific:
   • Bad Feedback: "The character feels weird."
   • Good Feedback: "When I jump while running, the character pauses for half a second before landing. It feels sluggish."
4. Attach Proof: Upload screenshots or screen recordings of any bugs or graphical glitches you encounter.

 

 

5. Understanding the "Grey Box" PhaseOften, your first prototype will use simple cubes and spheres instead of characters and buildings. This is called "Grey Boxing."

[!TIP] Don't worry about the graphics during a grey box test. Focus entirely on whether the gameplay is fun. Once the mechanics are perfect, we will layer in the beautiful artwork and special effects.

6. Closing the Loop: The Approval MilestoneOnce we have iterated on the prototype and you are happy with the gameplay, we reach a "Core Logic Approval" milestone. At this point, we transition from prototyping to full-scale production.
7. SummaryTesting is a conversation between the client and the developer. By providing detailed, technical feedback on our prototypes, you ensure that the final game is exactly what you envisioned.
Found a bug you can't describe? record a quick video on your phone and post it in the active workspace chat.