The success of any product is based on how well it sells. Unfortunately, research shows that most video game development costs are never recouped during the sales cycle of the product. This is not always because the idea was a bad one, but often the implementation of the idea missed the mark. Developers and publishers will always test their beta product using game testers and sometimes employ quality assurance evaluators to ensure high standards are maintained. However, this is usually done at the final stages of development and only major bugs can be attended to, if the publishing schedule is to be met.

A game will succeed or fail on reviewer’s comments and scoring. Gamer forums and player’s word of mouth are also powerful factors that affect how well a product will penetrate the market. Analysis of reviewing techniques and forum comments highlight the fact that it is not usually what is good about a game, but what is bad about a game that destroys it.

Back in the 1970’s, we called these Hygiene Factors. If a negative factor exists, it will detract from the game and reviewers will score it low, but their absence will not necessarily make the game any better. For example, if the clipping of a 3D model is done badly, the player will not enjoy the game. However, if the 3D clipping has been correctly implemented, it does not necessarily make the game great. Where a game tester can check 3D clipping, we analyze the placement of feedback icons within the screen for player comfort, the rewarding scheme utilized for the targeted market, and the player’s emotional perception of the game if they are to invest their time in game play. If these, and other factors, are not optimum, the game will not achieve its sales targets.

At Pivec Labs, we analyze what factors will detract from the essence of the game and provide recommendations where these can be changed. This can be and should be done as early as possible within the development cycle, and can be iterative throughout the development. Contact us for more on the success or failure of your development project.