It’s getting closer and closer to that point in which I’m going to need to do a test for my application, considering the lack of devices to test on I can already fear the results that I’m going to get, but it’s to be expected, during the initial phases of this I am going to want to invite a few friends over the Internet to try the game, and provide me with feedback related to their game-play experience.
The main thing that I’m worried about is graphical positioning.
The game is 2D and makes use of the Unity 4.6 UI for all Interface related options, so I’m not too worried about it, but what about my SpriteRenderers, will they be off the screen on some devices? I’ve continued doing research on trying to find the best methods to make sure your game scales correctly, but I’m not exactly sure how to properly do it.
It should be simple for me, considering my game consists of a few entities that move in one direction (From left to right) and everything else is static, but figuring it out initially is the challenge none-the-less.
A lot of hard work, sweat, and tears have gone into the development of this simple project, and while it may not be that much to some other people, as my first android application, it’s my pride and joy… and if other people don’t like it, I do, so I can’t lose.
Anyway, back on topic:
How can I push my game out to a community for testing without getting a massive amount of bad ratings, an android beta-test if you will.
Regarding your worry that your game will not render correctly on untested mobile devices: you can test many common aspect ratios and even create new ones to test by changing the “Game View” resolution.
You cant avoid 1-star ratings. you can minimize the number by trying to ensure at least the game doesnt crash, runs well, and is responsive, but people will 1-star you for no reason other that because they can. I had a rant about it a while back, but the best thing you can do is ignore them.
Decouple your beta product from your final product. Put it up specifically as a beta test. Then pull it from the store once the release version is available. Doing it this way will mean your new app won’t be affected by one star ratings on the old app. Of course the downside is you will also loose any five star ratings.
You might wanna give the amazon apk testing a whirl as well, I don’t think it gives you the ability to control thing, but it does return screen shots and it also appears to attempt to press buttons in the UI.
Thanks for all of the answers guys, I"ll probably be using BoredMormons approach as it seems like what I’m looking for. What aspect ratios should I be testing for my game? I’ve been developing it using the 800x480 hdpi landscape view.
There are professional game QA testing companies that can offer this service. Google for Game QA Service.
Find one that has tons of Android devices, and let them test professionally and give feedback.
With all the hard time and effort you put into a game, it’s well worth the cost.
