Public Playtesting

Several times a year we put out open calls for playtesters.

We are typically looking for folks who are local to our studio in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA.

A colorshifted image showing various game components including dice, board, cards, pawns, tablet, controller, and vr headset

What is playtesting?

Playtesting is trying out a game that is in development—a prototype. You help make the game better by playing it in an unfinished state and sharing your feedback. Games go through many rounds of playtesting before they are ready for release.

Why should I sign up for a Ludoliminal playtest?

You will have the opportunity to try a new game before it is even released. You’ll also get a peek behind the scenes at how the game design process works!

How do I find out about a playtest?

We put out our playtest invitation a shortly before each playtest event through our newsletter list. The invitation is open for several days or until the playtest is full. We typically accept 4-10 families per playtest.

Who are you looking for?

Most of our formal playtests are for families local to us in Pittsburgh and usually we are looking for groups of 2-4 that include kids of a particular age range. Occasionally there may be opportunities for digital or or print & play playtesting, or for groups of just adults.

Join our Newsletter List

Step 1: Playtest Invitation

When we have a game ready for playtesting, we announce the playtest through our newsletter and social media channels. The invitation will include some information about the game like target ages, number of players, any required supplies, etc., as well as the dates of the playtest.

Step 2: Apply to Participate

If your family is interested in playtesting the game, you apply via the invitation. We can only accept a limited number of families for each playtest because we learn so much from each family that participates.

Step 3: Receive Playtest Kit

We ship you a playtest kit! It will include an prototype copy of the game and instructions.

Step 4: Pick A Time and Play

Typically you'll have a window of 1 week to play the game together. We generally recommend you plan a 2-hour block for the playtest- that includes learning to play, playing the game twice, and completing the feedback step.

Step 5: Send Your Feedback!

This is the most important step! We will give you a survey to fill out and may ask you to take some photos to share with us. Your feedback will help us make the next version of the game.

Step 6: Return Your Prototype

Once you're done playtesting, we'll make arrangements to have your prototype picked up (if you're local) or shipped back to us so that it can be updated and sent off to the next set of playtesters!

Join Our Newsletter to Get Playtest Invitations