Running and Sprinting User Testing

Purpose

The purpose of this user test is to gain feedback on how the mechanics and components work in with the game. Primarily we were seeking users opinions on how smooth the running was, whether it is a good speed, and if the stamina change was too drastic (as it updates every few milliseconds).

Method

The steps we did to run the user testing:

1. Run the desktop launcher.
2. Have users walk around the map without pressing left shift.
3. Have users run around the map pressing left shift.
4. Ask users our key questions.

Interview Questions

• Do you think the walking and running is smooth and fitting?
• Do you think the stamina should deplete at it's rate, or is it too fast/slow?
• Is the stamina text hard to read?

Results & Analysis

User 1:

• The text is way too dark to see with the background, as one needs to change colour.
• The movement seems smooth when you're running.
• The stamina changes at a good rate, just that its usually a bar rather than a number, which is why it looks fast.

User 2:

• Defiantly too hard to read when the stamina text is over the black background.
• The movement is a little bit janky, as looking very closely, the character shakes when moving.
• Its too hard to say if the stamina changes too fast since there is no objective or map size.

User 3:

• I think the running button should be space bar or something big
• The stamina goes down really fast and should be slowed down

Summary

The stamina text (along with health and area) need to be changed to another colour, given that the black background is more fitting to the retro theme of the game compared to its original. The consensus for the smooth movement was generally good, with the exception of a slight jitter when looking very closely. However the character sprite animation was being worked on by another group which appears smooth. The rate at which the stamina changes will stay at its current state, as User 1 did mention it looks faster as it is updated every few milliseconds and is displayed as a double. Changes that could be made in the future are to implement a stamina bar like most games. It is an easier indication of how much players can run without direct attention. Finally, User 3 mentioned the running button should be assigned to space bar as it is easier to read. This may not be implemented in the future as traditionally, left shift is sprinting for many games, as well as the space bar may be used for interaction as other teams work on them. A screen to display the controls may help users who aren't aware of the button layout.