More Playtesting

This is the last playtesting session I will conduct with the current track set-up. We just quickly tried out a couple of minor things - you will see Michael and Jack testing a heaver ball (made of compacted paper) and the effect of blowing through two straws instead of one. Neither alternative was any good...

Is it Winnable?

I needed to check that the chute worked efficiently and the difficulty level was about right. Dan and I had played numerous times before (we may have an unfair advantage or slightly improved on our ball control skill) so I wanted to bring someone else in who was completely new to the game.

Sully was happy to prove that the challenge was no match for him...

And just in case anyone doubted it...

Plugging the Gaps

Something playtesting helps to highlight is oversights you didn't even consider when developing a level or track layout. In the previous playthrough, Dan struggled when the ball rolled backwards and got stuck under the chute. To avoid this happening in future, I used a spare plastic pizza tripod and wedged it into the gap. This is only a temporary solution but the issue is now something I will keep in mind when creating the finished prototype.

More Playtesting

I rope in my trusty and loyal sidekick 'Demo Dan' to give the chute idea a shot...

Hmm. Lets see if I can do any better...

Nope. I just looks like I'm having a seizure.

I adjust the chute angle in an attempt to make it easier to beat. I've also moved the built up section so it's out the way of the main straight to get a good long run up. I try the new arrangement out myself before others have another a go...

I'm pretty sure it's not as hard as I made it look (but I was holding a camera in one hand), although there's definitely a nice sense of challenge. You can probably tell from the video that I was feeling more than a little pleased with my personal victory.

So now it's Dan's turn again...

Collaborative Brainstorming

Two second year students - Ross and Sean - help by giving me some friendly advice 

and track making tips...

Cheers guys!