While some game companies are outsourcing QA to the cheapest backwater they can find, Infinity Ward is apparently flying in career glitchers and exploiters to help with this year’s money printer, Modern Warfare 3. “mapMonkeys are a community of gamers who have become infatuated with discovering and sharing glitches, exploits, tricks, and strategies found in the video games they play,” in their own words.
The Role of mapMonkeys in Game Development
It also turns out this isn’t the first time they answered the call of duty. “We’ve been flown out to test other games in the past […] but we only had 2 or 3 days to test the game and find glitches, which wasn’t nearly enough time,” according to master of understatement Rezzzo. This highlights a significant shift in how game developers are approaching quality assurance. Instead of relying solely on traditional QA testers, who may not have the same level of expertise in finding and exploiting game glitches, companies like Infinity Ward are recognizing the value of bringing in specialists who live and breathe this aspect of gaming.
The mapMonkeys community has a unique skill set that is incredibly valuable to game developers. Their deep understanding of game mechanics and their ability to think outside the box allow them to uncover issues that might otherwise go unnoticed. This proactive approach to QA can lead to a more polished and balanced final product, which is crucial in a competitive market where gamers have high expectations.
The Ethical Dilemma of Closing Exploits
Be sure to hit the link for the awesome rationalization for helping Infinity Ward close the very exploits that created their community. Don’t be too hard on yourselves, guys, anyone would have done the same. This brings up an interesting ethical dilemma: by helping to close the exploits, are the mapMonkeys betraying their community, or are they contributing to the greater good of the gaming experience?
On one hand, exploits and glitches can provide a sense of thrill and accomplishment for those who discover them. They can also foster a sense of community among gamers who share their findings and strategies. On the other hand, these same exploits can disrupt the balance of the game, leading to frustration for other players and potentially harming the game’s reputation.
By working with Infinity Ward, the mapMonkeys are helping to ensure that Modern Warfare 3 offers a fair and enjoyable experience for all players. This collaboration can be seen as a way to bridge the gap between the gaming community and developers, fostering a more cooperative relationship that benefits everyone involved.
The Future of QA in Gaming
The involvement of communities like mapMonkeys in the QA process could signal a broader trend in the gaming industry. As games become more complex and player expectations continue to rise, developers may increasingly turn to specialized groups for their unique insights and expertise. This could lead to more robust and well-rounded games, as well as a more engaged and satisfied player base.
In conclusion, Infinity Ward’s decision to bring in the mapMonkeys for QA testing on Modern Warfare 3 is a testament to the evolving nature of game development. By leveraging the skills and knowledge of dedicated gamers, developers can create more polished and enjoyable experiences. While the ethical implications of closing exploits may be up for debate, the overall impact on the gaming community is likely to be positive.
Source mapMonkeys
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