Scope in the Arena of Game Testing
The video game industry has witnessed an upsurge like never before over the past few years. The recent recession of 2008-2009 saw the $50 billion gaming industry remain completely unaffected.
Every cell phone company in the world is making an attempt to incorporate fresh and original gaming in its products. Similarly, laptops and home computers are being manufactured to support various gaming features. Not to mention, high-tech gaming consoles are increasingly becoming a rage. Playing games has become no less than an obsession for many people.
To err is human; it is natural that certain slip-ups or miscalculations will be made by the game developers. When you play a newly launched game or one that has had an important update, more often than not, you will come across a few hiccups or malfunctions. One unpleasant criticism (in print, blogs, forums, etc.) about the glitch will result in huge losses to the game product companies.
A decade ago, when the gaming arena was still very new and the scope of play was restricted, it was either just the developer, or one or two testers, that were responsible for all the testing. However, as gaming become more and more intricate and multifaceted, a substantial group of QA resources, called Quality Assurance engineers, became crucial. The responsibilities of the game testers are no less than those of the game developers or designers. Were it not for the testers to find errors, the gaming releasing into the market may disappoint the gamers if they fail to run properly, plummeting the sales of the industry.
There are many preconceived notions about the job of a game tester, like:-
“Testing video gaming can be very exciting!” True: Although the testing appearance drops short of many people’s initial expectations, the job can be a lot of fun. Testers work long tedious hours, but it is in a relaxed environment with people who have similar interests. For those who revel in reconnaissance and dismantling things to find out their workings, are able to cope up with extensive working hours and enjoy an informal atmosphere, the job of a game tester can be very rewarding as an entry-level career.
“Gaming testers play video gaming the entire day!” False: If you seriously want to build a career in the gaming industry, then have a clear vision about this job; game testing job is not just about playing. The focus of this job is to test a game comprehensively in both technical and graphical ways to provide better experience to the customer. Everyone thinks that a game testing job is exciting, but game testers have to constantly replay same level of the same game frequently to verify a bug or certain issues. Therefore, it could prove to be rather monotonous to play a game in such conditions.
“Video Game Tester profile does not require any skill!” False: Gaming testing profile also needs a particular set of skills such as good concentration, analytical mind, good report writing skill, communication skill, passion for gaming etc.
Following jobs are offered by the gaming industry:
Video gaming programming jobs (designing video plays)
Video gaming testing jobs
Art Director
Concept Artists
Level Artists
3-D Artists
Animator
The key qualification to be a successful game tester is to have the obsession and avid interest in playing computer gaming. Since gaming industries are providing full time testing jobs, the opportunity for a stable and successful career in game industry has become possible.
Game testing is also similar to a product or web application testing. In this testing, the following things have to be kept in mind:-
First we analyze the game rules and its behavior as we study and analyze requirements in application testing. We have to gain full knowledge of the game so that we can identify exceptional behavior.
We have to test whether the game is working properly as it is supposed to. In testing terminology, we say that we have to perform functional testing.
We have to test the compatibility of the game on different OS/Browser combinations, devices as the end user could use a varied set of devices to play the game on.
If a game is online, then the game testers must verify whether the game can smoothly handle the customers’ load. In other words, game testers must perform performance testing on game sites.
In a multi-player game, game tester needs to verify that all players are managed according to game functionality and a fair distribution of game resources is done to all the players.
Bug reporting is also a significant aspect in game testing, like in any other type of testing. In game testing, also, bug reports need to be created and submitted through a bug reporting system.
After the bug is fixed, it needs to be verified by the testers to ensure that it has no more impact on the functionality of the game.
Game testing along with quality of software has now become a sought-after career with emphasis on gaining knowledge. Game testing jobs are considered good options for today’s younger generation who are enthusiastic and keen to put in long hours in a career of their interest, which includes good money, too.
Given how gaming can hold an end user’s attention for a long period of time, gaming are beginning to be used not just for entertainment, but also for other areas such as education (a brief on this has been blogged at: http://www.qainfotech.com/blog/2011/08/gaming-technology-in-education-%e2%80%93-a-new-career-option-in-software-testing/ ). A lot of research is currently ongoing to see how gaming can be successfully leveraged in such areas. Thus the potential in this domain is unlimited and we are sure to see some revolutionary changes in this industry this coming decade offering good career options for various disciplines including software quality testing.
Assassins Creed Revelation to Be Released in November 2011
The breathtaking and one of the best adventure game series of all time, The Assassins Creed by Ubisoft, is expected to release its next version, Assassins Creed Revelations on November 2011. After the grand success of the three former games,
Ubisoft will release its fourth installment in the Assassins Creed series, Assassins Creed Revelations, on November 15 2011. It is an action packed third person adventure game with a brilliant plot and a background story.
The game will follow the series’ standard open-world gameplay. New gameplay additions include an item called the hookblade, which can be used to zipline across the city or grab enemies to yank them in for a combo attack. The hookblade reportedly speeds up navigation by around 30 percent. Along with the hookblade, Ezio will also have 300 different bomb variations at his disposal, which will be craftable.
Multiplayer gameplay is also making a return in Revelations. The mode expands the basics of online modes from Brotherhood with new characters and locations. Players will be able to customize their characters’ appearance and weapons, as well as start a guild and create its unique coat of arms. Matchmaking and game interface will be improved. Ubisoft says that while the component is returning, they’re putting greater focus towards the narrative, as it’s the heart of the franchise. As players level up in the game, they will move up in their Abstergo Templar rank and gain access to more information about the company. New multiplayer modes will be added to the already existing modes, including “story-oriented quests”. Some multiplayer maps will be based in the island of Rhodes
Both Assassins Creed 1 and 2 were top hits. But the only problem of these games were less freedom in gameplay. The two games were concentrated on the storyboard of the entire series. So Ubisoft solves the problem with the release of Assassins Creed Brotherhood, which concentrates less on the main storyboard and more on freedom while in gameplay.
In Brotherhood you can buy shops, do many side missions, accompany co-assassins, call horses from wherever you are and u have a great variety of missions. In this game you can where a variety types of clothes, capes, weapons, armor, etc
Anyway you have a terrific twist climax in the main storyboard of the whole series in this one.
In addition to Ezio’s award-winning story, the acclaimed online multiplayer experience from Assassin’s Creed Brotherhood returns, refined and expanded, with more modes, more maps and more characters that allow players to test their assassin skills against others from around the world. The latest chapter in the Assassin’s Creed saga also includes revolutionary gameplay, allowing players to manipulate the construct of Desmond’s memories and the Animus to decipher the mysteries of his past and gain insight into the future.
Ubisoft is keeping the fans sit to the brink with its twisting and thrilling background story. More than the extraordinary fighting moves and techniques, fans are eagerly waiting for the continuation of the thrilling story of Desmond Miles.
Game Accessories: It’s Time To Level Up!
The main difference between the usual desktop computers and gaming level devices is very important. They greatly vary in performance and style or appearance. The use of game equipment is now trending because nearly all gamers would want to enhance the looks of their gadget.
The gaming field necessitates high and speedy performance. Any advantages that a player can gain over his rival could mean survival for cyber-world addicts. Good for players that the companies such as Razer, Logitech and Microsoft are very much aware of this and are offering gaming accessories to further enhance your gaming experience. If you have just begun using game equipment, it is very important to match your device with the appropriate accessories. If not, you could be restricting the over-all presentation accessible to you. The typical mouse and keyboard won’t work for you. Serious gamers should have top quality items to enjoy gaming!
It is quite obvious that if you are after getting the best game equipment there is a cost to settle. But the difference in speed and performance is worth the money only if you are so serious about playing the game. As stated earlier, these accessories are not only meant to improve your gaming experience but to enhance the physical looks of your devices as well. You can choose your own colours and designs to make it suitable for your personality.
A mouse specifically designed for gamers is an excellent way to start collecting accessories. Among the best items include Logitech G9. Its grip and mass is changeable. You can also modify the LEDs.
Another good option is the Razer Death Adder Gaming House which is very speedy. It offers pinpoint correctness that makes your game an amusing one. It also has a 5 programmable buttons so you can readily alter the settings to suit your desires.
When we talk of gaming level keyboards, Logitech again tops the list. Logitech G15 keyboard keeps you well-versed and prepared to earn the game! By using Logitech -exclusive Game Panel LCD, you are capable of identifying your opponent’s server or be notified as soon as your WoW gaming field becomes available.
Quality headsets and speakers are also necessary to top the game. Most of the plays these days require speedy and accurate conversations with your team mates. If your group can’t converse well and clearly, you might just be thrown out of the game earlier than what you expected.
I’ve just purchased some new and cool game equipment and game accessories online, they offer a wide variety to choose from and the best deals that you won’t be able to find in stores or shops!
How Do You Get Your Games? Renting Vs Buying Video Games
Games have always been an important part of human existence. Humans have been playing them since 3000 B.C., as competition, entertainment, punishment, and so much more. Today they are really popular, not the ones the ancient Romans played to torture and train gladiators but, video games.
Video games have come a long way since the classic games of Pac-Man, and even the original Mario Brothers. Today we have loads of games and game systems to play them on, including the Playstation 3, Xbox 360, Nintendo Wii, Call of Duty, The Sims, and so much more, Along with video games advancement the prices also changed drastically. However people will always continue to buy video games regardless of the price, which is why it is extremely important to know how to get your video games in a convenient and affordable way.
Therefore, I always say there are two ways to get video games, you can either rent them or buy them. With renting you can borrow the game from a company and return it once you and buying where you just buy the game. But in my case I choose to do both. I chose to do both because it is quite convenient and affordable for my gaming needs.
Renting games is awesome, that’s why I am surprised when someone has never heard of renting games. Renting games gives you a feel for the game and a complete gaming experience without going out spending fifty or sixty dollars on it. Also if you want to keep the game you can buy it at a cheaper price than retail. “Where do I rent games?” you might ask. For my game renting I use “Gamefly” and Blockbuster Online, both of these companies are great. But I do prefer “Gamefly” because “Gamefly” have a larger supply, and you would be on the waiting list with Blockbuster Online forever.
Renting is not always going to work for me, because “Gamefly” or Blockbuster may take a long time to get a game that I want. So, I also choose to buy, because sometimes I don’t want to wait for “Gamefly” to get a game. Of course I don’t buy my games at retail price, instead I buy them online. Buying games online is way more affordable than buying them from a retail store. Online you can buy them for the same quality but for a way cheaper price.
iPhone RPG Games
The great thing about the iPhone is its innovative touch screen. Unlike other handheld gaming devices, the touch screen allows you to play games in a whole new style. Some of Japan’s most popular RPG gaming franchises have been released on the iPhone with impressive results.
The Final Fantasy franchise is renowned around the world and is arguably the most popular RPG series of all time. The first three Final Fantasy games have been ported to the iPhone and look as brilliant as their handheld companions. Final Fantasy I and II are exact ports from the PSP versions while Final Fantasy III is a direct port from the Nintendo DS version. Final Fantasy III looks brilliant compared to the Nintendo DS original and its touch screen controls makes battles smoother and faster.
This is because you can use your finger to pick and choose which enemies you want to attack. It’s a much better system than using the controller to scroll through the enemies all the time. I’ve played a ton of turn-based RPG games in my life and there’s nothing worse than accidentally choosing the wrong enemy to kill in the heat of battle. In the iPhone versions, you shouldn’t encounter such problems as this…
Scrolling through the world maps is also less frustrating. Just put your finger on the corner of the screen and you character will move automatically. The other great thing about the iPhone version of the Final Fantasy games is that they all retain the beautiful cutscenes that the series is famous for.
One of Japan’s other most popular RPG franchise is the Monster Hunter series. Unlike with the Final Fantasy games, Monster Hunter titles have no story as it’s all about you hunting rare beasts in various exotic locations. The newest Monster Hunter game released is Monster Hunter Dynamic Hunting. The touch screen plays a huge role in the game yet it’s simple to learn the controls.
Tapping the screen with your finger allows you to attack, while sliding your fingers across the screen allows you to move. Using more than one finger will initiate other controls such as rolling out of danger and blocking. It’s a unique approach to the game and RPG fans will love the new way of playing Monster Hunter. Graphically the game is similar to that of the PSP version.
Not all of the iPhone RPG games are 3D powerhouses however. There are a ton of games that gamers from the ’90s will appreciate. There are a number of old-school 2D RPG games available that are similar to Nintendo’s Zelda games. One of the most popular iPhone RPG games is a game called Across Age. It’s got pretty 2D visuals and offers hours of fun.
There are a number of titles available for the iPhone that RPG fans both old and young alike will enjoy playing. Not to mention they’re all pretty affordable and can all be easily downloaded from Apple’s own app store. The only thing iPhone owners need to check before they purchase these games is if they have enough memory space left to download them. Other than that, it’s a pretty easy process.