Playtesting is the heart of game design. Ideas flow thick and fast for many designers, but it is only by getting them on the table in front of players that we see what we have created.
Playtesting is the process by which designers turn ideas into experiences.This book describes:
- The purpose of playtesting
- Types of playtests
- Protecting your idea
- How many playtests are necessary
- Documenting playtests
- Forms of playtester feedback
... and then goes on to describe 100 questions you should ask during the playtesting process, with a detailed rationale for each of them.
Praise for Adam Porter's previous board game design book ‘Adam in Wales - Board Game Designer Journal’:
“The author has created an impressive, thoughtful, approachable and generous toolset for anyone interested in designing board games, but who perhaps doesn't quite know where to start or how to bring their creativity into focus. It's also full of quotes from successful game designers, each of which the author uses to introduce a different lens that the reader can use to actively interrogate and develop their own ideas.” Brett J Gilbert, designer of Mandala and The Guild of Merchant Explorers.
“One of the hardest things with game design is knowing how to make progress when you get stuck. The Board Game Designer Journal helps you move forward by encouraging you to think differently about your challenges. The journal is broken up into a mix of short exercises, reflective logs and Adam's own teachings. Would definitely recommend.” Rory Muldoon, designer of Voyages and Waypoints.
“I’ve read quite a few game design books and this is not like any of those. Whereas other books typically talk about game design around mechanisms and gameplay and theme, this book is very much a step away from the theory side of things and is instead an excellent journal to help the designer to develop themselves and their thoughts on game design.” Gino Brancazio, Tinkerbot Games - publisher of Ghostel and Haunticulture
“I love the personal insights like what kinds of people are at conventions, etc. or how he challenges you to answer tough questions about yourself. This truly is a must-have book if game design is your goal.” Amazon customer.
“Adam has done it again. I’ve been watching Adam's videos on YouTube for a few years now. Every time I think he has helped me out, with my board game designs, in every way possible, he creates something new to prove otherwise.” Amazon customer.
Praise for Adam Porter's YouTube channel ‘Adam in Wales - Board Game Designl’:
"If you’re a game designer, I highly recommend Adam Porter’s YouTube channel, Adam in Wales. It has a similar vibe to my game design YouTube channel in terms of its focus on specific game mechanisms, but Adam is far more eloquent and polished.” Jamey Stegmaier, designer of Viticulture and Scythe.
“Adam Porter has been putting out great videos on board game design for years, offering an experienced designer’s view of how the industry works… some of the most insightful and comprehensive overviews of the current state of the industry as it undergoes considerable challenges, all delivered with his characteristic wry wit.” Cardboard Edison
“Adam’s videos have already achieved must-watch status in the industry for me. They’re a great resource for established pros and newcomers alike." Mojo Nation 100
