Summary

Game test automation is a hotly debated topic in the game industry. Some believe that all aspects of testing should be automated, while others say that, apart from certain specific automated testing, using human testers can cost less and have less of a negative impact on the development process. There are, however, clear potential advantages to be gained from automating your test process. It can save many person-hours, lead to better game quality, and be more efficient than manual testing.

Although at present test automation is typically employed in the later stages of development, there is a strong argument for starting as early as possible and automating testing of game code throughout the development cycle.

If you are considering large-scale deployment of test automation, you need to realize it is a long- term investment that will fundamentally alter how your company creates games . Implementing any degree of automated testing will require the full support of your management. It will also be vital to have strong foundations in place that govern all aspects of your testing program before you begin to automate.