Multi-Session Playtests

When to conduct a multi session playtest

Multiple session playtests bridge the gap between single session testing and longitudinal studies. These structured tests typically involve the same players returning for 2-4 sessions, providing insights into player progression and learning curves that single sessions can't capture.

Multiple session testing is particularly valuable when:

• Your game has progression systems or complex mechanics that take time to master

• You need to understand how players develop skills and strategies over time

• You want to test tutorial effectiveness and new player onboarding

• You're evaluating content pacing and progression gates

• You need insights into mid-term retention without committing to a full longitudinal study

Multiple session playtests generate rich data about player behavior over time. Focus analysis on:

• Learning curve patterns

• Evolution of player strategies

• Changes in feature usage

• Progression bottlenecks

You can convert insights into actionable improvements by identifying patterns across different players' experiences. Pay special attention to problems that persist across sessions – these often indicate fundamental design issues rather than learning curve challenges.

Remember that multiple session testing requires more resources and coordination than single sessions. However, for games with complex systems or progression mechanics, the deeper insights justify the additional investment. Use this method when you need to understand not just how players first react to your game, but how they grow with it.

Adding surveys to your playtest

While video and audio recordings provide valuable insights into player behavior, we've found that post-session surveys are crucial for capturing the complete player experience. Not every playtester is comfortable thinking aloud during gameplay - some might feel self-conscious about voicing their thoughts, while others become so immersed in your game that they forget to comment on their experience. That's why we recommend including a post-playtest survey with every session. These surveys provide a structured way for players to reflect on their experience and share feedback they might have missed during gameplay.