WITHOUT BUG TESTERS, most of our favorite games would be unplayable. They find the little errors which would otherwise prevent us from beating a level, or using a powerful spell properly, or even understanding what a king is requesting. It seems, however, that most gamers (and reviewers) far overestimate the power that testers possess. I've often read, "Didn't anybody bugtest this?" or "Why didn't the testers tell (company) that the game wasn't fun?" I'm here to explain the world of bug testing so that at least you, the reader, will never have these thoughts again. MORE >>>

Editor's Comments

   Have we got a column for you today! Four top-notch editorials flew into my inbox this week, and one of them was deemed Featured Reader of the week. It's an anonymous submission by someone who apparently has an intimate knowledge of game-testing, the fabled dream job that everyone believes would rule. This editorial may make you think twice about that assumption, while at the same time instill an appreciation for those who take on this line of work.

   We've also got two well-written rebuttals to last week's submissions by Daniel Orner (Cidolfas) and Borjarnon. Don't skip Carmine Red's piece, either; it's an amusing article that may inspire you.

   It's good to have another week with so many more submissions than we've been receiving lately. Thanks to all who submitted editorials for this week's column, and to all those who plan on having one ready for next week.