CRAZY SNOWBOARD - HOLIDAY SPECIAL v2.4 NOW AVAILABLE!!
Get ready for some wicked-cool 3D snowboarding action on your iPhone!
Crazy Snowboard has something for everyone:
- Eye-popping 3D graphics
- 30 missions
- 13 riders to unlock
- 13 boards to unlock
- 16 touch-activated in-air tricks to unlock
- Grinding: rails, boxes, logs, candycanes!
- Smashable obstacles: zombies, snowmen, elves!
- Intuitive controls - really feels like you are boarding!
- Quick pick-up-and-play
- 4 endless free-ride tracks
- Hours of challenging game-play
Waiting for a bus? Stuck in line? No matter where you are, now you can hit the slopes! Just fire up Crazy Snowboard and you're there!
Ready for some massive airs? Just touch the screen (anywhere) hold down and you'll crouch ready to spring. Release your touch on top of a ramp and you'll get a huge boost. Link tricks together to increase your multiplier and score big.
How about grinding? We've got rails, boxes, logs, candycanes (yes, candycanes!) all ready for your grinding pleasure. See how many grinds you can link together to ramp up your bonus multiplier and boost your score.
Note: If you want a snowboarding game with only 3 tracks, 3 riders and limited tricks, then you might as well buy one of the other snowboarding apps in the store (or download our FREE Crazy Snowboard Lite). But, if you are after hours of fun playing the biggest and best snowboarding experience on your iPhone, you need to download Crazy Snowboard now!
Monday, December 21, 2009
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Texture Artists and Texture Mapping
Don't be surprised if you visit a video game development team and find the texture artist just standing and staring at the wall. The wall is a very important element in video game environment and the video game texture designer has to know exactly what different walls and materials look like in all kinds of light. Remember, the texture on a wall, a vehicle, or even on a creature's scaly skin is one of the elements that makes a difference between a really three-dimensional video game and just another kiddie cartoon.
The texture artist may scan actual photographs of the appropriate textures into the computer and then apply that texture to the creatures, environments or objects created by other members of the team.
Some texture designers find ways of creating exotic, new textures that may go far beyond any surfaces occurring in nature-at least in this planet's nature.
These textures have to be mapped onto the 3D objects, environments, and characters in the game. A sloppy job of texture mapping in a game will take away the visual edge. You can have great 3D environments, but the textures have to back them up. Boring repetitive textures will make the levels seem blah and give the gamer the "been there, done that" feel. This can be a game killer. There are just countless textures in a game such as The Battle for Middle Earth (shown on the left)
The video game texture artist has to understand the technical limitations of the systems for which the games are being designed. Textures have to fit within the memory and processing ability of the machines being used. Texture designers learn various tricks to give the illusion of intricate textures without using up the memory cache needed for other parts of the video game.
Salaries for texture artists depend on experience and where you work. In the first few years, you can expect to get on average $40,000+, with an increase to $60,000+ with 4 or 5 years of experience under your belt.
The texture artist may scan actual photographs of the appropriate textures into the computer and then apply that texture to the creatures, environments or objects created by other members of the team.
Some texture designers find ways of creating exotic, new textures that may go far beyond any surfaces occurring in nature-at least in this planet's nature.
These textures have to be mapped onto the 3D objects, environments, and characters in the game. A sloppy job of texture mapping in a game will take away the visual edge. You can have great 3D environments, but the textures have to back them up. Boring repetitive textures will make the levels seem blah and give the gamer the "been there, done that" feel. This can be a game killer. There are just countless textures in a game such as The Battle for Middle Earth (shown on the left)
The video game texture artist has to understand the technical limitations of the systems for which the games are being designed. Textures have to fit within the memory and processing ability of the machines being used. Texture designers learn various tricks to give the illusion of intricate textures without using up the memory cache needed for other parts of the video game.
Salaries for texture artists depend on experience and where you work. In the first few years, you can expect to get on average $40,000+, with an increase to $60,000+ with 4 or 5 years of experience under your belt.
Artificial Intelligence Programming for Video Games
Today it is almost impossible to write professional style games without using at least some aspects of artificial intelligence. Artificial intelligence (AI) is a useful tool to use to help to create characters that have a choice of responses to games player's actions, but have to be able to act in a fairly unpredictable fashion.
Video game artificial intelligence is a programming area that tries to make the computer act in a similar way to human intelligence. There are a number of underlying principles behind video game AI, the major one being that of having a rule based system whereby information and rules are entered into a database, and when the video game AI is faced with a situation, it finds appropriate information and acts on it according to the set of rules that apply to the situation. If the AI database is large enough, then there is sufficient unpredictability in the database to produce a simulation of human choice.
If you are interested in working on video game artificial intelligence, then you need to be a skilled programmer in this area. You will learn how to build video game AI simulations, and to apply the AI techniques that can make video game artificial intelligence such an effective tool.
Salaries for video game programmers in general depends on experience and where you work. In the first few years, you can expect to get on average $50,000+, with an increase to $80,000+ with 5+ years of experience under your belt.
Video game artificial intelligence is a programming area that tries to make the computer act in a similar way to human intelligence. There are a number of underlying principles behind video game AI, the major one being that of having a rule based system whereby information and rules are entered into a database, and when the video game AI is faced with a situation, it finds appropriate information and acts on it according to the set of rules that apply to the situation. If the AI database is large enough, then there is sufficient unpredictability in the database to produce a simulation of human choice.
If you are interested in working on video game artificial intelligence, then you need to be a skilled programmer in this area. You will learn how to build video game AI simulations, and to apply the AI techniques that can make video game artificial intelligence such an effective tool.
Salaries for video game programmers in general depends on experience and where you work. In the first few years, you can expect to get on average $50,000+, with an increase to $80,000+ with 5+ years of experience under your belt.
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
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Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Terminologies used
The Test department of a game publishing company is called "Quality Assurance," or "QA" for short. The term "QA" is also often used to describe the function or process of testing. In this article, the terms "test" and "QA" are sometimes used interchangeably.
Also note: This article is discussing the full-time internal job of tester (wherein the tester is an employee who comes to work daily at the game company to test games, for wages). Volunteer (unpaid) "beta testing" (wherein someone at home gets a copy of a game and provides feedback via email, usually without pay) is a separate matter entirely. Getting a job as a tester can be a good way to get started in the game biz -- volunteering to do some beta testing is more akin to simply being a customer (an end user).
Quality Assurance testing jobs are usually found at game publishing companies. Developers also do some testing (but usually not full Q.A.) - but game development companies probably don't have full-time testing jobs (unless the development company is very large and well-staffed).
Typically, someone who works at a small game development company usually performs multiple job functions. Publisher jobs are usually more specialized. So someone who starts as a tester at a publishing company might eventually move up into producing, while someone who works as a tester at a smaller development company might eventually move up into any of a number of roles.
There are also independent testing labs who hire testers. Publishers are increasingly outsourcing their Q.A. to these outside labs. Jobs at these places are okay if you just want to test and you don't have aspirations of moving up in the industry - a tester who works at one of these labs would have to quit in order to move up in the industry. It's recommended that if you want to work as a tester as a steppingstone to other jobs in the industry, that you work for a publisher or a large developer, not an independent test lab.
Also note: This article is discussing the full-time internal job of tester (wherein the tester is an employee who comes to work daily at the game company to test games, for wages). Volunteer (unpaid) "beta testing" (wherein someone at home gets a copy of a game and provides feedback via email, usually without pay) is a separate matter entirely. Getting a job as a tester can be a good way to get started in the game biz -- volunteering to do some beta testing is more akin to simply being a customer (an end user).
Quality Assurance testing jobs are usually found at game publishing companies. Developers also do some testing (but usually not full Q.A.) - but game development companies probably don't have full-time testing jobs (unless the development company is very large and well-staffed).
Typically, someone who works at a small game development company usually performs multiple job functions. Publisher jobs are usually more specialized. So someone who starts as a tester at a publishing company might eventually move up into producing, while someone who works as a tester at a smaller development company might eventually move up into any of a number of roles.
There are also independent testing labs who hire testers. Publishers are increasingly outsourcing their Q.A. to these outside labs. Jobs at these places are okay if you just want to test and you don't have aspirations of moving up in the industry - a tester who works at one of these labs would have to quit in order to move up in the industry. It's recommended that if you want to work as a tester as a steppingstone to other jobs in the industry, that you work for a publisher or a large developer, not an independent test lab.
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Video game testing
You have undoubtedly heard that a recommended way of getting started in the games biz is to get a job as a game tester. That's true, especially if you do not have a programming degree, an art degree, a business degree, etc. and if you can get the testing job with a game publisher or developer (rather than at a game testing lab located far away from game publishers or developers).
And you have undoubtedly also heard a lot of negative reactions to this advice. A lot of the negative things you have heard are probably from losers who couldn't hack it even as testers, or from guys who just approached it the wrong way. There is a common perception that testing is a "lowly entry-level job" and that testers are at the bottom of the totem pole. The fact is, testing is extremely important and the test phase is vital in polishing a game into a fun experience for the end user.
That's not to say that if you have an art degree or a programming degree, a law degree, or a business degree (or even a "game design" degree, if you find a college that offers such), that you MUST begin in the game industry in Q.A. Obviously, if you can enter the industry in a job closely related to the subject you mastered in at college, then you should target that path instead of Q.A.
But for those who have not gotten a degree in one of those areas... Testing can be an excellent way to get your foot in the door.
And you have undoubtedly also heard a lot of negative reactions to this advice. A lot of the negative things you have heard are probably from losers who couldn't hack it even as testers, or from guys who just approached it the wrong way. There is a common perception that testing is a "lowly entry-level job" and that testers are at the bottom of the totem pole. The fact is, testing is extremely important and the test phase is vital in polishing a game into a fun experience for the end user.
That's not to say that if you have an art degree or a programming degree, a law degree, or a business degree (or even a "game design" degree, if you find a college that offers such), that you MUST begin in the game industry in Q.A. Obviously, if you can enter the industry in a job closely related to the subject you mastered in at college, then you should target that path instead of Q.A.
But for those who have not gotten a degree in one of those areas... Testing can be an excellent way to get your foot in the door.
Friday, August 7, 2009
Nokia Series 30 Handsets
Nokia 1100, 1108, 2100, 2270, 2272, 2275, 2280, 2285, 2300, 3350, 3410, 3510, 3585, 3590
1100B, 2280A, 2280B, 3510i, 3530, 6210, 6250
1100B, 2280A, 2280B, 3510i, 3530, 6210, 6250
Thursday, August 6, 2009
Test plans
A test plan documents the strategy that will be used to verify and ensure that a product or system meets its design specifications and other requirements. A test plan is usually prepared by or with significant input from Test Engineers.
Depending on the product and the responsibility of the organization to which the test plan applies, a test plan may include one or more of the following:
Design Verification or Compliance test - to be performed during the development or approval stages of the product, typically on a small sample of units.
Manufacturing or Production test - to be performed during preparation or assembly of the product in an ongoing manner for purposes of performance verification and quality control.
Acceptance or Commissioning test - to be performed at the time of delivery or installation of the product.
Service and Repair test - to be performed as required over the service life of the product.
Regression test - to be performed on an existing operational product, to verify that existing functionality didn't get broken when other aspects of the environment are changed (e.g., upgrading the platform on which an existing application runs).
A complex system may have a high level test plan to address the overall requirements and supporting test plans to address the design details of subsystems and components.
Test plan document formats can be as varied as the products and organizations to which they apply. There are three major elements that should be described in the test plan: Test Coverage, Test Methods, and Test Responsibilities. These are also used in a formal test strategy.
Test coverage in the test plan states what requirements will be verified during what stages of the product life. Test Coverage is derived from design specifications and other requirements, such as safety standards or regulatory codes, where each requirement or specification of the design ideally will have one or more corresponding means of verification. Test coverage for different product life stages may overlap, but will not necessarily be exactly the same for all stages. For example, some requirements may be verified during Design Verification test, but not repeated during Acceptance test. Test coverage also feeds back into the design process, since the product may have to be designed to allow test access.
Test methods in the test plan state how test coverage will be implemented. Test methods may be determined by standards, regulatory agencies, or contractual agreement, or may have to be created new. Test methods also specify test equipment to be used in the performance of the tests and establish pass/fail criteria. Test methods used to verify hardware design requirements can range from very simple steps, such as visual inspection, to elaborate test procedures that are documented separately.
Test responsibilities include what organizations will perform the test methods and at each stage of the product life. This allows test organizations to plan, acquire or develop test equipment and other resources necessary to implement the test methods for which they are responsible. Test responsibilities also includes, what data will be collected, and how that data will be stored and reported (often referred to as "deliverables"). One outcome of a successful test plan should be a record or report of the verification of all design specifications and requirements as agreed upon by all parties.
Depending on the product and the responsibility of the organization to which the test plan applies, a test plan may include one or more of the following:
Design Verification or Compliance test - to be performed during the development or approval stages of the product, typically on a small sample of units.
Manufacturing or Production test - to be performed during preparation or assembly of the product in an ongoing manner for purposes of performance verification and quality control.
Acceptance or Commissioning test - to be performed at the time of delivery or installation of the product.
Service and Repair test - to be performed as required over the service life of the product.
Regression test - to be performed on an existing operational product, to verify that existing functionality didn't get broken when other aspects of the environment are changed (e.g., upgrading the platform on which an existing application runs).
A complex system may have a high level test plan to address the overall requirements and supporting test plans to address the design details of subsystems and components.
Test plan document formats can be as varied as the products and organizations to which they apply. There are three major elements that should be described in the test plan: Test Coverage, Test Methods, and Test Responsibilities. These are also used in a formal test strategy.
Test coverage in the test plan states what requirements will be verified during what stages of the product life. Test Coverage is derived from design specifications and other requirements, such as safety standards or regulatory codes, where each requirement or specification of the design ideally will have one or more corresponding means of verification. Test coverage for different product life stages may overlap, but will not necessarily be exactly the same for all stages. For example, some requirements may be verified during Design Verification test, but not repeated during Acceptance test. Test coverage also feeds back into the design process, since the product may have to be designed to allow test access.
Test methods in the test plan state how test coverage will be implemented. Test methods may be determined by standards, regulatory agencies, or contractual agreement, or may have to be created new. Test methods also specify test equipment to be used in the performance of the tests and establish pass/fail criteria. Test methods used to verify hardware design requirements can range from very simple steps, such as visual inspection, to elaborate test procedures that are documented separately.
Test responsibilities include what organizations will perform the test methods and at each stage of the product life. This allows test organizations to plan, acquire or develop test equipment and other resources necessary to implement the test methods for which they are responsible. Test responsibilities also includes, what data will be collected, and how that data will be stored and reported (often referred to as "deliverables"). One outcome of a successful test plan should be a record or report of the verification of all design specifications and requirements as agreed upon by all parties.
Sony PlayStation2 Game Testing
First of all, SQA testers perform a submission test on title. This submission or 'TRC' check will verify that if the game meets the requirements set by the SCEE/SCEA/SCEI in their Technical Requirements Checklist.
This test run also checks the following elements:
Naming Conventions: this test will cover the 'definitions' and 'namings' in the game in all its different languages to see if there are any violations against chapter "7.0 PlayStation Component Naming Conventions".
Memory Card Operations: every developer / publisher knows that this issue is of critical importance to Sony. SQA testers check all possible memory card messages in all available languages. As a part of this test, they will simulate any user action will be to see if the game reacts correctly to these actions. The messages will be checked for translation, naming convention standards and the correct display of the specified message.
Language check: check if your game is correctly translated into all featured languages.
At the end of the test run, SQA testers send you a detailed report on test results and TRC status.
Besides TRC testing, SQA testers can carry out other functionality tests, such as game play, balance and AI, to make sure that your PlayStation game meets the highest quality standards.
This test run also checks the following elements:
Naming Conventions: this test will cover the 'definitions' and 'namings' in the game in all its different languages to see if there are any violations against chapter "7.0 PlayStation Component Naming Conventions".
Memory Card Operations: every developer / publisher knows that this issue is of critical importance to Sony. SQA testers check all possible memory card messages in all available languages. As a part of this test, they will simulate any user action will be to see if the game reacts correctly to these actions. The messages will be checked for translation, naming convention standards and the correct display of the specified message.
Language check: check if your game is correctly translated into all featured languages.
At the end of the test run, SQA testers send you a detailed report on test results and TRC status.
Besides TRC testing, SQA testers can carry out other functionality tests, such as game play, balance and AI, to make sure that your PlayStation game meets the highest quality standards.
Microsoft XBox Game Testing
tests include:
TCR (Technical Certification Requirements). We will assess the compliance of your game with Xbox requirements. Thus, we will check if your game is ready for submission to Microsoft, helping you save both time and money.
Xbox Live. "Live TCR issues" is a separate chapter in the Xbox Guide . We will check if your game complies with it. The test includes 'Xbox live' requirements, content download, statistics, friends, voice.
Functionality. This test focuses on the general game functionality, and namely:
Menu functionality
General functionality of the buttons, options
Game play and AI
Game stability
Walkthrough
Multiplayer. We will check how your game behaves when played in all featured multiplayer modes. This can vary from multiple players on a single Xbox, system link over to LAN and of course actual online multiplayer sessions.
TCR (Technical Certification Requirements). We will assess the compliance of your game with Xbox requirements. Thus, we will check if your game is ready for submission to Microsoft, helping you save both time and money.
Xbox Live. "Live TCR issues" is a separate chapter in the Xbox Guide . We will check if your game complies with it. The test includes 'Xbox live' requirements, content download, statistics, friends, voice.
Functionality. This test focuses on the general game functionality, and namely:
Menu functionality
General functionality of the buttons, options
Game play and AI
Game stability
Walkthrough
Multiplayer. We will check how your game behaves when played in all featured multiplayer modes. This can vary from multiple players on a single Xbox, system link over to LAN and of course actual online multiplayer sessions.
Microsoft XBox Game Testing
tests include:
TCR (Technical Certification Requirements). We will assess the compliance of your game with Xbox requirements. Thus, we will check if your game is ready for submission to Microsoft, helping you save both time and money.
Xbox Live. "Live TCR issues" is a separate chapter in the Xbox Guide . We will check if your game complies with it. The test includes 'Xbox live' requirements, content download, statistics, friends, voice.
Functionality. This test focuses on the general game functionality, and namely:
Menu functionality
General functionality of the buttons, options
Game play and AI
Game stability
Walkthrough
Multiplayer. We will check how your game behaves when played in all featured multiplayer modes. This can vary from multiple players on a single Xbox, system link over to LAN and of course actual online multiplayer sessions.
TCR (Technical Certification Requirements). We will assess the compliance of your game with Xbox requirements. Thus, we will check if your game is ready for submission to Microsoft, helping you save both time and money.
Xbox Live. "Live TCR issues" is a separate chapter in the Xbox Guide . We will check if your game complies with it. The test includes 'Xbox live' requirements, content download, statistics, friends, voice.
Functionality. This test focuses on the general game functionality, and namely:
Menu functionality
General functionality of the buttons, options
Game play and AI
Game stability
Walkthrough
Multiplayer. We will check how your game behaves when played in all featured multiplayer modes. This can vary from multiple players on a single Xbox, system link over to LAN and of course actual online multiplayer sessions.
Game Testing Methodology
There is no "gold standard" method for game testing, and most methodologies are developed in-house, by individual video game developers and publishers. And, methodologies are refined from time to time and may differ for different types of games (for example, the methodology to test a MMORPG will be different from the testing for a casual game). But outlined below is a typical methodology of game testing.
Identification: Incorrect program behavior is analyzed and identified as a bug.
Reporting: The bug is reported to the developers using a defect tracking system. At minimum, the circumstances of the bug and steps to reproduce are included in the report. Developers sometimes request additional documentation such as real-time video of the bug's manifestation.
Analysis: This step of the process involves the developer responsible for the bug, such as an artist, programmer or game designer. It is outside the scope of the game tester's duties, though if there are inconsistencies in the bug report, the tester may be approached to provide more information or evidence.
Verification: After the developer claims the bug to be fixed, it is the responsibility of the tester to verify that the bug no longer occurs. Not all bugs are addressed by the developer. Reported bugs may be claimed as features (often expressed as "NAB" or "not a bug"), and may also be waived (given permission to be ignored) by producers, game designers, or even lead testers, according to company policy.
Regression testing: As game development progresses, closed bugs are checked again to ensure that they have not regressed, or re-manifested. For example, a programmer might undo a fix, having forgotten why the change was made in the first place. Though tedious, this type of testing is important since unexpected changes to code can cause old problems to resurface in the same or different ways.
Standards testing: Consoles manufacturers such as Nintendo, Sony and Microsoft have standards they require to be met for games for their platforms. Not all manufacturers standards are alike and some testers are dedicated only to ensuring these standards are met.
Identification: Incorrect program behavior is analyzed and identified as a bug.
Reporting: The bug is reported to the developers using a defect tracking system. At minimum, the circumstances of the bug and steps to reproduce are included in the report. Developers sometimes request additional documentation such as real-time video of the bug's manifestation.
Analysis: This step of the process involves the developer responsible for the bug, such as an artist, programmer or game designer. It is outside the scope of the game tester's duties, though if there are inconsistencies in the bug report, the tester may be approached to provide more information or evidence.
Verification: After the developer claims the bug to be fixed, it is the responsibility of the tester to verify that the bug no longer occurs. Not all bugs are addressed by the developer. Reported bugs may be claimed as features (often expressed as "NAB" or "not a bug"), and may also be waived (given permission to be ignored) by producers, game designers, or even lead testers, according to company policy.
Regression testing: As game development progresses, closed bugs are checked again to ensure that they have not regressed, or re-manifested. For example, a programmer might undo a fix, having forgotten why the change was made in the first place. Though tedious, this type of testing is important since unexpected changes to code can cause old problems to resurface in the same or different ways.
Standards testing: Consoles manufacturers such as Nintendo, Sony and Microsoft have standards they require to be met for games for their platforms. Not all manufacturers standards are alike and some testers are dedicated only to ensuring these standards are met.
Saturday, July 25, 2009
Types of Game Testing - Soak Testing
Soaking, in the context of video games, typically involves leaving the game running for a period of hours or days in various modes of operation, such as idling, paused, or at the title screen. This test requires no user interaction beyond initial setup, and is therefore usually managed by lead testers. The purpose of soaking is to detect the presence of memory leaks or rounding errors that manifest over time, resulting in system instability or odd game behavior. Soak tests are one of the checked requirements for first-party compliance and must be performed on every title. Because it requires no user interaction, soaking is also a euphemism for employees shirking their duties (i.e. not playing the game).
Types of Game Testing - Localization Testing
While general text issues are a minor part of functionality testing, some QA departments use dedicated localization testers. This is especially true with Japanese publishers. Early Japanese game translations were rife with Engrish, and in recent years this has become a more serious concern with Japanese developers as games have taken on a more cinematic presentation. To maintain the impact of the drama, localization testers are employed to review the game's script (which may be thousands of pages long for RPGs or other story-driven experiences), looking to make technical corrections as well as reviewing the translation work itself to ensure that it matches natural speech patterns. Thus, a localization tester acts as an editor. Though localization testing is currently a mainstay of Japanese game development, it will likely expand as the Chinese, Korean, and Russian game industries gain global traction. Those seeking work in this area do not necessarily need to speak foreign languages, but being able to understand the original texts is a helpful and desirable skill. Unlike other forms of testing, however, localization may involve very little actual game interaction. In some cases, the only times that the tester needs to play the game is to understand the context of dialog or interface messages that are not immediately obvious. The game's "script", which is not a script in the literary sense, but rather a collection of all the text strings referenced in the game, is typically catalogued in a spreadsheet that the tester is given to work with.
Types of Game Testing -Compatibility Testing
Compatibility testing is normally required only for PC titles, and testers assigned to this task are expected to have at least basic knowledge of PC hardware. An individual who can assemble their own PCs and setup an operating system is minimally qualified for this job. Compatibility testing differs from functionality testing in that the tester does not really care whether the game itself is correct, but simply that it runs on different configurations of hardware. The tester is usually provided with multiple PCs and/or extra parts. This collection of hardware encompasses various brands of CPUs, video cards, sound cards, and input peripherals such as gamepads and joysticks, and possibly other components as well. The tester is also expected to cross-test different hardware configurations with different operating systems. In addition to a basic pass/fail test, the tester may also be asked to evaluate performance. The results of these performance tests will be used to determine the game's advertised minimum system requirements. In some cases, compatibility or performance issues may be fixed by the developer, especially if a popular brand and model of a certain component is affected. In other cases, especially with legacy hardware or software, support will simply be dropped, and the game's system requirements will reflect this.
Types of Game Testing -Compliance Testing
In large part, compliance testing is the raison d'etre for the existence of game testing labs. First-party licensors for console platforms (e.g. Nintendo, Sony, Microsoft) have strict technical requirements for each title that is licensed for their platforms. Sony publishes a Technical Requirements Checklist (TRC), while Microsoft publishes Technical Certification Requirements (TCR), and Nintendo publishes a set of "guidelines"(Lot Check) that serve a similar purpose. Some of these requirements are highly technical in nature and fall outside the scope of the game tester; however, other parts, most notably the formatting of standard error messages, handling of memory card data, and handling of legally trademarked and copyrighted material, do fall within the responsibility of the game testers to test. If even a single violation is found by the first party during submission for license approval, the game can be rejected (kicked back) to the publisher, possibly costing tens of thousands of dollars in additional testing and resubmission fees. In addition, the delay may cause the title to miss an important launch window, potentially costing the publisher even larger sums of money. The title cannot be published for the system without first-party approval, so it is in the publisher's financial interest to ensure that the title is tested for compliance as rigorously and as frequently as possible.
The requirements themselves are proprietary documents released to developers and publishers under confidentiality agreements. They are not available for the general public to review, although familiarity with these standards is considered a valuable skill to have as a tester.
Compliance may also refer to regulatory bodies such as the ESRB, if the game targets a particular content rating. Testers must flag "objectionable content" in the game that may be inappropriate for the desired rating. As with licensing, games that do not receive the desired rating must be re-edited, retested, and resubmitted at additional cost.
The requirements themselves are proprietary documents released to developers and publishers under confidentiality agreements. They are not available for the general public to review, although familiarity with these standards is considered a valuable skill to have as a tester.
Compliance may also refer to regulatory bodies such as the ESRB, if the game targets a particular content rating. Testers must flag "objectionable content" in the game that may be inappropriate for the desired rating. As with licensing, games that do not receive the desired rating must be re-edited, retested, and resubmitted at additional cost.
Types of Game Testing -Functionality Testing
Functionality Testing
This is the type of testing that is most commonly associated with the phrase "game testing", as it usually entails playing the game in some form. Functionality testing does not require much in the way of technical knowledge, though understanding basic concepts about programming can give testers insight about the possible cause of a problem, which both reduces the amount of work they have to do, and generally makes their reports easier to understand by the developer. Functionality testers look for general problems within the game itself or its user interface. Major issues include stability (does the game crash?), correctness of game mechanics (does the sword deal damage?), and integrity of game assets (are textures corrupted?).
This is the type of testing that is most commonly associated with the phrase "game testing", as it usually entails playing the game in some form. Functionality testing does not require much in the way of technical knowledge, though understanding basic concepts about programming can give testers insight about the possible cause of a problem, which both reduces the amount of work they have to do, and generally makes their reports easier to understand by the developer. Functionality testers look for general problems within the game itself or its user interface. Major issues include stability (does the game crash?), correctness of game mechanics (does the sword deal damage?), and integrity of game assets (are textures corrupted?).
Friday, July 10, 2009
Luxury Chess Sets
There no better way to show your appreciation for that chess player in your life than to get them a beautiful luxury chess set. These luxury games are just the thing for that player who would like to enjoy his or her favorite game in a whole new light. Chess lovers both young and old will certainly applaud the gesture, because these sets are a sight to behold. What makes these sets so special? Well, let's take a look at some of the options you have available to you when choosing one of these lovely sets and find out for ourselves.
Perhaps the most intriguing thing about choosing a luxury set is just the sheer number of materials that you can choose from. One of the materials that you may want to consider is marble. Marble sets have a very polished and stylish look to them, and gazing at the swirl of the colors in the marble can be mesmerizing. Another type of material that you may choose is alabaster. Alabaster also looks just as nice as the marble finish and has a beautiful shine when the light hits it also. Glass is a very clean and beautiful material to use as well, and the different shades of the glass that is used provides a very different look. All of these are excellent choices for materials for chess sets, and they all offer a different spin on the standard game of chess that players are accustomed to.
Luxury chess sets can also come in different varieties of metals such as brass and steel. Besides all of the different materials that may be involved, there are other things that can factor into making these sets stand out from the rest. The shapes and sizes of the pieces can also be very unique. If you are looking for a certain theme for your chess experience, you may very well be able to find it. Different themes ranging from movies, television shows, and even real life battle scenes can be incorporated into these very unique sets. Whichever type of theme you are looking for, odds are there is one that will perfectly suit you or that special chess player in your life.
Perhaps the most intriguing thing about choosing a luxury set is just the sheer number of materials that you can choose from. One of the materials that you may want to consider is marble. Marble sets have a very polished and stylish look to them, and gazing at the swirl of the colors in the marble can be mesmerizing. Another type of material that you may choose is alabaster. Alabaster also looks just as nice as the marble finish and has a beautiful shine when the light hits it also. Glass is a very clean and beautiful material to use as well, and the different shades of the glass that is used provides a very different look. All of these are excellent choices for materials for chess sets, and they all offer a different spin on the standard game of chess that players are accustomed to.
Luxury chess sets can also come in different varieties of metals such as brass and steel. Besides all of the different materials that may be involved, there are other things that can factor into making these sets stand out from the rest. The shapes and sizes of the pieces can also be very unique. If you are looking for a certain theme for your chess experience, you may very well be able to find it. Different themes ranging from movies, television shows, and even real life battle scenes can be incorporated into these very unique sets. Whichever type of theme you are looking for, odds are there is one that will perfectly suit you or that special chess player in your life.
Mah Jong Game - A Popular Chinese Game is Quickly Becoming a Popular Game in America
I would like to define Mah Jong, also spelled Mah Jongg. For those of you that are wondering about this game that has become very popular in America.
How do you pronounce the Name
The dictionary has any of the following pronunciations: maa zhóng or maa jóng.
History of Mah Jong Tile Game
There are different beliefs about how the game originated. Some individuals believe a Chinese philosopher developed the game around 500 B.C. Others believe the Chinese Aristocrats developed the game 4,000 years ago. The game was kept secret until 1911 when China became a Republic. Mah Jong Games were brought to America. The game came to the Americas in 1920 by what we know as a popular casual clothing company Abercrombie and Fitch. The rules were translated into English the best way the people at that time could and the rest of the rules were invented by the American people.
What is Mah Jong
Mah Jong, also known as Mah Jong Solitaire, is a game played with tiles that have various colorful Chinese pictures. It is a little strange when you are learning how to play because you are not familiar with the pictures. If you enjoy playing the card games Solitaire or Gin Rummy, you should not have too much trouble understanding the rules of the game.
Fundamental Aspects of the Game
A game set consists of 144 tiles with 108 suit tiles, 28 honors tiles and 8 bonus tiles. The tiles can be subdivided into suits just like Solitaire or Gin Rummy. Keeping score is by adding the dots or dotted lines that are on the tiles. There are American translated versions of tiles which will make it easier to read the tiles. There are many variations of the game so be sure you know the rules of the the version you are playing.
The American Mah-Jongg Association
The game has gotten to be so popular that The American Mah-Jongg Association was formed in 1999 to keep the enthusiasm and spirit of the game popular among the American people.
Susan Reed invites you to visit http://www.PokerandBoardGames.com for all your Board Game and Poker needs. Browse through our large selection of top notch poker table accessories and poker chips for sale for the poker players. We also offer classic board games like a wooden chess set, backgammon set, roulette and mah jong tile game. You are going to enjoy our casino and game products. You will also find free articles and blogs on topics about our products found at http://www.PokerandBoardGames.com
How do you pronounce the Name
The dictionary has any of the following pronunciations: maa zhóng or maa jóng.
History of Mah Jong Tile Game
There are different beliefs about how the game originated. Some individuals believe a Chinese philosopher developed the game around 500 B.C. Others believe the Chinese Aristocrats developed the game 4,000 years ago. The game was kept secret until 1911 when China became a Republic. Mah Jong Games were brought to America. The game came to the Americas in 1920 by what we know as a popular casual clothing company Abercrombie and Fitch. The rules were translated into English the best way the people at that time could and the rest of the rules were invented by the American people.
What is Mah Jong
Mah Jong, also known as Mah Jong Solitaire, is a game played with tiles that have various colorful Chinese pictures. It is a little strange when you are learning how to play because you are not familiar with the pictures. If you enjoy playing the card games Solitaire or Gin Rummy, you should not have too much trouble understanding the rules of the game.
Fundamental Aspects of the Game
A game set consists of 144 tiles with 108 suit tiles, 28 honors tiles and 8 bonus tiles. The tiles can be subdivided into suits just like Solitaire or Gin Rummy. Keeping score is by adding the dots or dotted lines that are on the tiles. There are American translated versions of tiles which will make it easier to read the tiles. There are many variations of the game so be sure you know the rules of the the version you are playing.
The American Mah-Jongg Association
The game has gotten to be so popular that The American Mah-Jongg Association was formed in 1999 to keep the enthusiasm and spirit of the game popular among the American people.
Susan Reed invites you to visit http://www.PokerandBoardGames.com for all your Board Game and Poker needs. Browse through our large selection of top notch poker table accessories and poker chips for sale for the poker players. We also offer classic board games like a wooden chess set, backgammon set, roulette and mah jong tile game. You are going to enjoy our casino and game products. You will also find free articles and blogs on topics about our products found at http://www.PokerandBoardGames.com
Become a Paid Video Game Tester Without Training!
If you're just dieing to be a paid video game tester and want to quit your normal 9-5 job, then you need to listen up. Video game testing is a JOB, not a hobby! Yes, it's fun, it's entertaining, and it pays well -- but that doesn't mean you can just do what you want when you want. As with any other type of employment, you have to do the tasks you are assigned in a timely, professional manner.
Failing repeatedly in your tasks will result in a loss of your testing job, as well as any reference you might have gained from that game developer. That said, really put effort into your testing assignment if you want to go far as a video game tester. If you put in half-ass efforts, you'll get half-ass results, period!
How to Become a Tester Without Training
Believe it or not, game testers don't require formal training of any kind. Obviously, you'll likely be more successful and climb up the ladder faster if you do indeed have training that'll aid in your game testing -- but by no means is it "must have" prerequisite.
To be honest, you only need to have the following to become a paid video game tester...
- Experience playing video games (The more the better)
- A good eye for detail (IMPORTANT!)
- A high end PC and/or a next-gen console (PS3 or XBOX 360) to complete your "assignments" on
- Internet connection and computer so you can send in testing reports and get updates
- Must Be 18 years Old. Some companies will make exceptions, but not many
If you can meet these requirements, or at least the majority of them, you "qualify" to be a paid video game tester. Does this mean you'll be able to get a job testing video games immediately? Unfortunately, no -- it just means you are a person game developers would seriously consider hiring as a game tester.
Failing repeatedly in your tasks will result in a loss of your testing job, as well as any reference you might have gained from that game developer. That said, really put effort into your testing assignment if you want to go far as a video game tester. If you put in half-ass efforts, you'll get half-ass results, period!
How to Become a Tester Without Training
Believe it or not, game testers don't require formal training of any kind. Obviously, you'll likely be more successful and climb up the ladder faster if you do indeed have training that'll aid in your game testing -- but by no means is it "must have" prerequisite.
To be honest, you only need to have the following to become a paid video game tester...
- Experience playing video games (The more the better)
- A good eye for detail (IMPORTANT!)
- A high end PC and/or a next-gen console (PS3 or XBOX 360) to complete your "assignments" on
- Internet connection and computer so you can send in testing reports and get updates
- Must Be 18 years Old. Some companies will make exceptions, but not many
If you can meet these requirements, or at least the majority of them, you "qualify" to be a paid video game tester. Does this mean you'll be able to get a job testing video games immediately? Unfortunately, no -- it just means you are a person game developers would seriously consider hiring as a game tester.
Video Games - A Life Line For Those With Disabilities
For video gamers, whether they be casual or hardcore, video games provide a escape mechanism of fantasy and enjoyment. For those that are disabled, video games are more than just fun, it's a life line, a social connection.
U.S. Census states that roughly 40 million Americans have some degree of impairment, which is little over 10% of the population. Yet the market for disabled gamers is pretty much completely non existent. Now, there are a few companies that have made their games more accessible for those with disabilities, but it's a small minority. I'm not sure if the video game industry deems it as not a big enough market to target or not. Whatever the view is, the market for disabled gamers is huge. Not every who has a handicap is grandma or grandpas age, or for that matter even born with a disability.
Some of the biggest gamers are in Iraq and Afghanistan right now. These brave men and women unfortunately lose limbs during war, but they don't lose their passion for video games, as a matter of fact it may be the only outlet to bring some normality back into their lives. Being confined to a wheelchair, bed or a room is hard enough, being able to still socialize through video games can ease the pain or depression one might feel, even if only for a few hours, they deserve at the very least that and much more.
Video games gives someone with a disability a chance to interact with others, join a community, create purposeful relationships, leave reality behind for a moment and be able to run, throw, sing or whatever it is that they can't do anymore. Believe it or not, these gamers will be your most dedicated and loyal of all gamers.
With any company I understand that time is money, it will take a little more time and money to make some of these games accessible for those with disabilities. But financially the video game industry can do it, it's a very strong industry no matter what the economy is doing at the time. And in the long run the extra time invested will without a doubt pay off, and what's even better is that you will be changing and saving someones life. Who would of thought video games carried so much value and meaning, it's a beautiful thing. Peace, Prosperity & Video Games!
Denard King is a video game enthusiast who is intrigued by the video game industry. His website http://www.consoles-accessories.com is all about video game accessories, downloads and modchips that help bring out the true value of your gaming console.
U.S. Census states that roughly 40 million Americans have some degree of impairment, which is little over 10% of the population. Yet the market for disabled gamers is pretty much completely non existent. Now, there are a few companies that have made their games more accessible for those with disabilities, but it's a small minority. I'm not sure if the video game industry deems it as not a big enough market to target or not. Whatever the view is, the market for disabled gamers is huge. Not every who has a handicap is grandma or grandpas age, or for that matter even born with a disability.
Some of the biggest gamers are in Iraq and Afghanistan right now. These brave men and women unfortunately lose limbs during war, but they don't lose their passion for video games, as a matter of fact it may be the only outlet to bring some normality back into their lives. Being confined to a wheelchair, bed or a room is hard enough, being able to still socialize through video games can ease the pain or depression one might feel, even if only for a few hours, they deserve at the very least that and much more.
Video games gives someone with a disability a chance to interact with others, join a community, create purposeful relationships, leave reality behind for a moment and be able to run, throw, sing or whatever it is that they can't do anymore. Believe it or not, these gamers will be your most dedicated and loyal of all gamers.
With any company I understand that time is money, it will take a little more time and money to make some of these games accessible for those with disabilities. But financially the video game industry can do it, it's a very strong industry no matter what the economy is doing at the time. And in the long run the extra time invested will without a doubt pay off, and what's even better is that you will be changing and saving someones life. Who would of thought video games carried so much value and meaning, it's a beautiful thing. Peace, Prosperity & Video Games!
Denard King is a video game enthusiast who is intrigued by the video game industry. His website http://www.consoles-accessories.com is all about video game accessories, downloads and modchips that help bring out the true value of your gaming console.
Hidden Object Games For Adventure Game Fans
More or less folks might ask themselves what the Hidden Object Games are. In these games the player is motivated to find hidden pictures or objects. The Character of hidden object games is mostly adventure like, for those who haven't played them yet. They are amazingly gratifying, I found. Having a adventurous challenge against the computer, free hidden object games are a good way to relax. These games are very popular in the casual game market, and several of them are based on well-known literary characters like Sherlock Holmes, Hercule Poirot, and now Nancy Drew.
Time management and hidden object games are the hottest games around at the moment. Because of the high quality of graphic and sound established by the developers in hidden object games, they are very atmospheric. Puzzling, looking for keys to unlock portals, equipment and clues keeps the player busy. To accomplish the story, you will have to solve mind boggling puzzles and find many hidden objects.
Always looking for unknown and strange games, or at the least games that are unlike anything I've diddled before, I discovered the Mystery Case Files series from Big Fish Games. In Return to Ravenhearst you will be deeply drawn in the Mystery Case Files. You may not be a fan of the genre, but the atmosphere and the puzzling will keep you up playing to the end. All three Mystery Case Files games are available from Big Fish Games' web site.
Overall in hidden object games you have to grasp the nettle of investigating more thank you think. Common on many portals, they seem to do better on Big Fish Games.
Hidden Object Games are free to download and play for one hour. More information on hidden object games on Big Fish following this link.
Time management and hidden object games are the hottest games around at the moment. Because of the high quality of graphic and sound established by the developers in hidden object games, they are very atmospheric. Puzzling, looking for keys to unlock portals, equipment and clues keeps the player busy. To accomplish the story, you will have to solve mind boggling puzzles and find many hidden objects.
Always looking for unknown and strange games, or at the least games that are unlike anything I've diddled before, I discovered the Mystery Case Files series from Big Fish Games. In Return to Ravenhearst you will be deeply drawn in the Mystery Case Files. You may not be a fan of the genre, but the atmosphere and the puzzling will keep you up playing to the end. All three Mystery Case Files games are available from Big Fish Games' web site.
Overall in hidden object games you have to grasp the nettle of investigating more thank you think. Common on many portals, they seem to do better on Big Fish Games.
Hidden Object Games are free to download and play for one hour. More information on hidden object games on Big Fish following this link.
Foundation of 3D Models in Video Games
Do you know that Video games and PC games are the applications that are designed by various designers and artists who are professionals in 3D model designing? Many multi-national companies provide these games which contain a creative design team that makes the body, voice and faces, species, names and many other physical characteristics of the personalities used in the games. When a company decides to use a character in the game, the creative designers and other artists will plan and work on the features to be developed to make the character to pertain to the individual game.
Many models are developed by the designers and one is selected by the decision maker. These designers make use of high technology scripts and programs and much software in which they have control. This allows them to express their ideas, as well as ability to develop proportional and perfect characters. Laser cutting or lithography is used to insert life into the characters after they are perfectly developed by the artists, designers using high tech software and scripts.
After the approval of characters, they are taken out of the original software and are implemented in the video games appropriate to the situation. Use of 3Dmodels in the designing of the characters makes sure there is a smooth conversion from the idea, to computer, TV screen or digital model.
In many ways people in society are benefited by using this 3D model applications developed by the experts in designing video games. Many applications use software like that used in video games in the design of building construction and modeling of new vehicles belonging to the motor companies. Many educational applications and scientific applications are developed from these models developed by the 3D designers. This allows them to express their ideas, and ability to develop proportional and perfect characters. Most fabulous applications are studied and researched and explained to the students as part of education. The way by which creative designers are developed in video games are used in society and it makes easier to develop an application in a less time. Use of 3Dmodels in the designing of the characters ensures a smooth conversion from an idea, to compute a digital model.
Visual art students use these applications developed by the 3D designers for comparing the grade skills level as well as knowledge retention. In many ways these applications are used by the students, doctors and engineers and many other business people and in commercial business.
Among many 3D models there are a few which became more popular in the society. One among them is Stanford Bunny. Stanford Bunny applications were developed by Marc Levoy and Greg Turk at Stanford University in the year 1994. This Stanford Bunny application was developed to test the standard of graphics programming. It was used far to test data. Other models, such as the iconic Utah Teapot, have been used as typical references as well as a device for the teaching students in graphic arts at the high school as well as the university level.
Many models are developed by the designers and one is selected by the decision maker. These designers make use of high technology scripts and programs and much software in which they have control. This allows them to express their ideas, as well as ability to develop proportional and perfect characters. Laser cutting or lithography is used to insert life into the characters after they are perfectly developed by the artists, designers using high tech software and scripts.
After the approval of characters, they are taken out of the original software and are implemented in the video games appropriate to the situation. Use of 3Dmodels in the designing of the characters makes sure there is a smooth conversion from the idea, to computer, TV screen or digital model.
In many ways people in society are benefited by using this 3D model applications developed by the experts in designing video games. Many applications use software like that used in video games in the design of building construction and modeling of new vehicles belonging to the motor companies. Many educational applications and scientific applications are developed from these models developed by the 3D designers. This allows them to express their ideas, and ability to develop proportional and perfect characters. Most fabulous applications are studied and researched and explained to the students as part of education. The way by which creative designers are developed in video games are used in society and it makes easier to develop an application in a less time. Use of 3Dmodels in the designing of the characters ensures a smooth conversion from an idea, to compute a digital model.
Visual art students use these applications developed by the 3D designers for comparing the grade skills level as well as knowledge retention. In many ways these applications are used by the students, doctors and engineers and many other business people and in commercial business.
Among many 3D models there are a few which became more popular in the society. One among them is Stanford Bunny. Stanford Bunny applications were developed by Marc Levoy and Greg Turk at Stanford University in the year 1994. This Stanford Bunny application was developed to test the standard of graphics programming. It was used far to test data. Other models, such as the iconic Utah Teapot, have been used as typical references as well as a device for the teaching students in graphic arts at the high school as well as the university level.
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
Ads May Infect Xbox Live Experience
After already paying a premium every month for the Xbox Live service that many have come to love over the years, the last thing users want is ads imbedded into the interface. Microsoft may be doing just that however, by implementing Silverlight ads into Xbox Live. This in turn will make more money for any company who works with Microsoft to have their ad displayed, but will only make consumers that much more aggravated, especially since many Xbox customers pay for Xbox Live. Stupidly, the company is somehow claiming that the advertisements will enhance the gaming experience, though it seems as if they could only hinder it in everyway possible
Monday, July 6, 2009
Fun, But Not a Fantasy to test games
Video game testing is a bit more involved than just playing video games and getting paid for it. Yes, it's fun and it's entertaining, but in no way does that make it a "do nothing, make money" type of job. There is work you'll have to do as well as deadlines you'll be required to meet.
Video game testing is definitely not for everyone, which you'll soon find out as you learn more about it. However, for tried & true gamers who want nothing more than to play video games and get paid for it, well, no career could possibly measure up to professional video game testing.
Video game testing is definitely not for everyone, which you'll soon find out as you learn more about it. However, for tried & true gamers who want nothing more than to play video games and get paid for it, well, no career could possibly measure up to professional video game testing.
What kind of games will I get to test?
If you have to work as mobile game tester then you have to test for the platform
Symbian OS
Java
Flash Lite
BREW
WIPI
iPhone OS
Android
Palm OS
video Game testers test all games for release on Xbox 360, Playstation 3 (PS3), Nintendo DS, Nintendo Wii & PC. Genres include sports titles, RTS, FPS, MMPORGS, action, adventure and much more. It's is impossible to tell what games you may test as a game tester, because most will be games that haven't even been released to the public!
Symbian OS
Java
Flash Lite
BREW
WIPI
iPhone OS
Android
Palm OS
video Game testers test all games for release on Xbox 360, Playstation 3 (PS3), Nintendo DS, Nintendo Wii & PC. Genres include sports titles, RTS, FPS, MMPORGS, action, adventure and much more. It's is impossible to tell what games you may test as a game tester, because most will be games that haven't even been released to the public!
how much will I get paid to test video games?
According to a 2008 Game Developer Magazine survey, game testers earn an average of $39,063 annually. Testers with less than three years experience earn an average of $25,142 while testers with over six years experience earn $43,056. Testing leads with over six years experience earn on an average of $70,658 a year.
Game Testing, Not As Exciting As You May Think
Anybody who plays videogames on any sort of a regular basis has had that thought at least once, how cool would it be if I could get paid to play videogames? And as we all know, for a select few there really is a career available in which you are paid to play games, that is the job of the videogame tester. Someone who plays the game in the beta stages to point out flaws and anything else that may be problematic throughout a game’s development cycle. While this sounds like it could be an awful lot of fun, game testing is actually no picnic.
First off, it’s not like you’re going to be getting to play your favorite game for hours on end, having fun and making a living wage from your efforts. In actuality you’re forced to play something that’s likely to he horrible, for long periods of time, and analyzing every second of the experience. Game testers are around to spot the smallest things, such as graphical errors, or collision detection issues with a game’s physics engine, and these require a massive amount of time to completely figure out. So instead of playing through a level and getting paid for it, you’re really critiquing every pixel in the level to a daunting extent, and reporting back to development teams so that they can fix and edit the game accordingly.
Not exactly a party.
Not to mention a game testers schedule becomes increasingly more grueling as deadlines begin to loom. Meaning a tester could end up putting in 12 to 14 hour days, playing the same levels and portions of gameplay over and over again, with the same repetitive movements and requirements, in an effort to nit pick every single detail. Not exactly a dream job, and you can see why most testers burn out in a relatively short period of time.
I’m thinking most people misjudge the opportunity as a dream job, and then find themselves shocked into reality when they see just how much work playing videogames can be.
First off, it’s not like you’re going to be getting to play your favorite game for hours on end, having fun and making a living wage from your efforts. In actuality you’re forced to play something that’s likely to he horrible, for long periods of time, and analyzing every second of the experience. Game testers are around to spot the smallest things, such as graphical errors, or collision detection issues with a game’s physics engine, and these require a massive amount of time to completely figure out. So instead of playing through a level and getting paid for it, you’re really critiquing every pixel in the level to a daunting extent, and reporting back to development teams so that they can fix and edit the game accordingly.
Not exactly a party.
Not to mention a game testers schedule becomes increasingly more grueling as deadlines begin to loom. Meaning a tester could end up putting in 12 to 14 hour days, playing the same levels and portions of gameplay over and over again, with the same repetitive movements and requirements, in an effort to nit pick every single detail. Not exactly a dream job, and you can see why most testers burn out in a relatively short period of time.
I’m thinking most people misjudge the opportunity as a dream job, and then find themselves shocked into reality when they see just how much work playing videogames can be.
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