Playtest Feedback Summary
We received valuable feedback from our playtest participants, including Ruth, Shirley, Michael, and Ricardo. Here is a summary of the key points raised:
- Motion sickness experienced by some players; stereo settings might be a cause.
- Suggestion to add audio cues to enhance player agency and immersion.
- The last part of Level 1 was perceived as too long; Atlantis concept felt too specific.
- Robots need to appear more dangerous; currently, the atmosphere is too peaceful.
- Clarification needed regarding the contaminated corals and their significance.
- Questions about the transition between stages and the drones as threats in stage two.
- UI elements blend with the background and can be made more noticeable.
- The connection between the controller and the drone needs to be clearer; aiming offset issues.
- Object collision audio for the submarine can be improved; consider using a cone rather than a laser for the first level.
- Positive feedback on the flashlight mechanic and player cooperation; consider adding this to stage one. Robot sound effects need to be clearer.
Next Steps
Based on the feedback received, we will take the following steps to enhance the game. Given the time constraint we are not able to fix all the issues, but here are some issues that we prioritized and wish to finish before final:
- Add audio cues to improve player agency and immersion.
- Reevaluate the pacing of Level 1
- Rephrase the audio cues, and remove the Atlantis concept.
- Increase the sense of danger by altering the robot’s appearance and behavior.
- Provide context for contaminated corals and their role in the game. Add visual effects to remove coral action.
- Clarify transitions between stages and ensure drones are perceived as threats.
- Improve UI visibility and differentiate it from the background.
- Strengthen the connection between the controller and the drone, and address aiming offset problems.
- Refine collision audio and consider implementing a cone instead of a laser for Level 1.
- Expand on the flashlight mechanic and player cooperation in Level 1, and clarify robot sound effects.