Ahri's unqualified thoughts #13
Random articles, quotes, videos, musings. Easy to consume content: 1 quote, 1 tweet/storm, 1 article/video and 1 song.
In today’s edition, we’re talking about corporate mistakes x kindness, and Valve’s secret sauce for game development.
1 quote
"Be hearty in your approbation, and lavish in your praise" Charles Schwab
1 tweet/storm
Something a bit more lighthearted than usual: some time ago, HBO Max's intern accidentally sent an empty test email to a group of customers. In response, numerous people and brands came to their aid, using the hashtag #dearintern, and shared amusing and heartwarming stories of their own mistakes.
1 article/video
Game Maker Tool Kit (GMTK) is one of my favorite YouTube channels, and the host just released his latest video! This time, he delves into Valve's case and uncovers their secret to releasing successful games: Playtesting. He uses examples from Portal, Portal 2, and Half-life 1/2/Alyx.
I encourage you to watch the video, but here is a quick and concise TLDR highlighting some tips from Valve (as he mentions, it's important to remember that Valve operates differently from other companies):
Test early - Even if the game is a prototype
Test often - Valve does it every week
Shut up & watch - observers need to stay quiet.
Designers should run playtests - don’t outsource.
Get the right people - variety matters, but target audience as well.
Challenge your assumptions - don’t be stuck on your ideas, playtesting is here to make you change that.
Most important tip: Playtesting feedback is just data, and it’s up to developers/designers how that data is understood, filtered, and applied.
1 song
Dalaran - Music & Ambience | World of Warcraft Legion
While Warcraft 3: Frozen Throne remains my favorite game of all time, I began playing World of Warcraft in December 2019 (thanks, PL <3), and since then, my love for the game has only grown. Like in many games featuring classes, I opted to play as a mage. Dalaran, renowned for its magic and mages, holds a special place in my heart as my favorite hub, surpassing Stormwind and Valdrakken. I invite you to bathe in the serene atmosphere of this wonderful city and enjoy its wonders.
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