GTD: Lesson - Game Testing and Debugging: The Basics

Game Testing and Debugging: The Basics

Congratulations on coming this far in the course! Utilizing the analogy of baseball, we have definitely covered most of the bases; however, there are a few more steps for us to take until we score a home run.

Step 5 of the ‘Engineering Design Process’ model we are using for this unit is to test and analyze. In this lesson, we will examine the basics of game testing and debugging by asking: why, what, and who.

Before we get into those three questions though, let's quickly cover the overarching question: when do games get tested? The quick answer: all the way throughout development - from the earliest ideas to the finished game - testing is a constant process. However, the most intense testing is that which is done right before publication: game developers strive to release a game that works, and so that last round of checking and debugging is essential to a game's success.

Why?

Game testing and debugging are imperative in game development. By testing and debugging games, developers can ensure that the game works properly, is enjoyable to play, and meets the expectations of its target audience. This can help make the game more popular for end users who may be looking for a fun and engaging way to spend their free time and/or build certain skills.

Additionally, testing and debugging can help developers identify and fix issues early in the development process, which can save time and resources in the long run. A well-designed and polished game can help establish the reputation of the game developer and increase the popularity of their work. To ensure a common understanding, let’s answer the questions: what is game testing and what is game debugging? Are these two concepts the same? If not, how are they different?

What?

Game testing is the process of evaluating a video game to identify issues, bugs, and glitches that may impact its quality or user experience. This involves playing the game under different conditions, such as different levels, modes, and platforms, to see how it performs and how it responds to user interactions. Game testers may also use various tools and techniques to simulate different scenarios and ensure that the game is stable, functional, and enjoyable to play.

Debugging, on the other hand, is the process of identifying and fixing issues and errors that are found during game testing. This involves analyzing the game code and its behavior to understand what causes the issue and then modifying the code to correct the problem. Debugging may also involve testing and retesting the game to ensure that the fix has been successful and does not introduce new issues.

Together, game testing and debugging are essential processes in game development to ensure that a game is of high quality, functions properly, and provides an enjoyable user experience. Without proper testing and debugging, a game may be riddled with bugs, glitches, and other issues that can negatively impact its popularity and user satisfaction.

Who?

Now that we have identified the ‘why and the what’ of game testing, let’s answer the question…who? Who should test games?

Game testing can be performed by various individuals, including professional game testers, beta testers, and even game developers themselves. The most effective approach to game testing often involves a combination of different testing strategies to cover various aspects of the game, from functionality and performance to user experience and engagement. Did you know that a ‘Professional Game Tester’ is an actual career in the scope of game development? A quick Google search of ‘professional game tester’ will provide those interested in such a career with information about the training requirements, job descriptions, and salary range of this occupation.

Another approach to game testing is beta testing. Beta testing involves releasing a game to a select group of players who can test it and provide feedback before it is released to the public. This approach can provide developers with valuable insights into how the game performs under real-world conditions and can help identify issues that may not have been found during in-house testing by the game developers and their team.

Game testers help to ensure the intent and quality of the game. Without game testers, games could be released with various issues that could potentially ruin the player's experience, such as bugs, glitches, crashes, or poor gameplay design. These issues could lead to negative reviews, loss of revenue, and damage to the developer's reputation. By having game testers, developers can identify and address any issues before the game is released to the public, ensuring that it is of high quality and meets player expectations.

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