Mobile games testing

The mobile gaming industry is a fast-growing sector, with an estimated worth of over $70 billion and expected to grow exponentially in the coming years. Along with this growth, the need for ensuring these games are bug-free and offer a seamless user experience has become more crucial than ever. This article delves into the world of mobile games testing, a process that involves rigorous checks and balances to ensure a game’s quality and functionality. We will explore the different testing methodologies, the importance of this process, and how it ultimately impacts the success of a mobile game in the competitive gaming market.

How do I become a mobile game tester?

Becoming a mobile game tester involves a series of steps:

1. Education and Skills: A high school diploma or equivalent is often sufficient for most mobile game testing jobs. However, having a degree in computer science, software development or a related field may give you an edge. You should have strong troubleshooting skills, a keen eye for detail, and excellent communication skills to report problems effectively. Being an avid gamer can also be beneficial.
2. Gain Experience: Many game testers start in entry-level positions to gain experience. This can include beta testing, where they test versions of games before they’re released to the public. Beta testing can sometimes be done on a volunteer basis.
3. Apply for Jobs: Look for job postings on company websites, job boards, and industry-specific sites. Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant skills and experience.
4. Interview Preparation: Be ready to answer questions about your gaming and technical experience. You may also be asked to demonstrate your problem-solving skills.
5. Continuous Learning: The gaming industry is always evolving, so it’s important to stay updated on the latest trends, tools, and technologies.
6. Certification: While not a requirement, there are certification programs available that can help increase your chances of landing a job.

Remember, a game tester’s job is not just about playing games for fun; it involves finding and reporting bugs, glitches, and other issues that could affect gameplay. It requires patience, attention to detail, and strong analytical skills.

What is mobile game testing?

Mobile game testing is a process where a game designed for mobile devices is tested for its functionality, usability, and consistency. The main aim of mobile game testing is to identify and fix any bugs, errors, and issues that might affect the gameplay or the player’s experience negatively. This process involves checking the game on different aspects like hardware compatibility, software performance, user interface, graphics, network, and security. It also ensures that the game runs smoothly on different mobile platforms (like Android, iOS, etc.) and across various device configurations. Mobile game testing can be done manually or can be automated, depending on the complexity of the game. It’s a crucial part of the game development process to ensure the end product is of the highest quality and provides an enjoyable user experience.

Is a mobile game tester a real job?

Yes, a mobile game tester is a real job. This role involves testing the functionality, usability, and consistency of mobile games before they are released to the public. The tester’s job is to identify any bugs, glitches, or issues that may affect the game’s performance or user experience. Mobile game testers often work closely with game developers and designers to provide feedback and recommendations for improvements. They may also be involved in the development of game manuals and the process of quality assurance. This job may require knowledge of different mobile platforms (such as iOS or Android), troubleshooting skills, and an understanding of the gaming industry. Some companies may require a degree in computer science or a related field, while others might prioritize gaming experience and technical skills.

Can you get paid for testing games?

Yes, you can get paid for testing games. This form of employment is known as game testing or quality assurance (QA). Game testers are hired by game development companies to play their games in development and provide feedback. They are tasked with finding glitches, bugs, and any other issues that may affect the gameplay experience. These testers are often paid by the hour, and the pay can vary greatly depending on the company, the complexity of the task, and the tester’s experience level. Some companies also offer benefits like health insurance and retirement plans. It’s important to note that this job requires more than just playing games; it requires critical thinking, attention to detail, good communication skills, and a deep understanding of the game. It’s also often necessary to write detailed reports about any issues found. Despite the fun-sounding nature of the job, it can be quite challenging and may involve playing the same game or level repeatedly to ensure all bugs are found.

Game testing tools

Game testing tools are software tools used by game developers to test their games for bugs, glitches, and overall performance before their final release. These tools help in identifying any problems that could interfere with the gameplay experience, and they allow developers to fix these issues before the game reaches the public. Some of the most commonly used game testing tools include platforms for performance testing, functionality testing, compatibility testing, and playtesting.

1. Performance testing tools, such as GameBench and NeoLoad, help in testing the game’s speed, stability, and responsiveness under different workloads.
2. Functionality testing tools, such as Ranorex and TestComplete, help in verifying the game’s functions and features. They test whether all elements of the game, like user interface, controls, and game mechanics, are working as intended.
3. Compatibility testing tools help in ensuring that the game runs smoothly across different devices, platforms, and operating systems. Examples include BrowserStack and CrossBrowserTesting.
4. Playtesting tools, like PlaytestCloud and Beta Family, allow real users to play the game in its development stage, providing valuable feedback about the game-play experience.
5. Mobile Automation testing tools like appium

These tools are crucial in ensuring that the game’s final version is free from any errors, and that it delivers a smooth and enjoyable experience for the players.

In conclusion, mobile game testing is a crucial aspect in the game development process. It ensures the game’s functionality, usability, and consistency, providing a seamless and enjoyable experience for players. With the rapid growth of the mobile game industry, the demand for rigorous and thorough game testing has increased significantly. It’s not just about finding bugs and glitches but also about understanding the player’s perspective and ensuring the game’s overall quality. In this dynamic and competitive market, the quality of a game can make or break its success. Therefore, investing in thorough mobile game testing can result in a more polished, successful, and profitable mobile game.