7. Testing puzzles

Testing puzzles

You know the solution. That is exactly why you can't judge whether it can be found. Only others can.

How to test properly

1. Look for testers who don't know your game. Friends are good, people from the community are better.
2. Say nothing beforehand except the goal. No explanations.
3. Watch without stepping in. Ideally ask the tester to think out loud.
4. Write down where they get stuck, for how long, and what they try there.
5. Ask afterwards: "What did you think you had to do here?"

What to do with the results

• If several people get stuck at the same spot, a hint is missing there.
• If several people try the same wrong solution, maybe it isn't wrong at all. Accept it or give it a good response.
• If someone solves a puzzle instantly and without an aha, it is too easy or the hint is too obvious.

A proven rhythm: three new testers after every act. That way you notice problems while they are still easy to fix.

Rule to remember
Watch, don't explain. Where testers get stuck, you are missing a hint, they are not missing brains.

Your task
Let three people play your first act and keep a log for each of them with the spots where they got stuck and their wrong attempts.