Quote:
Most people don't seem to realize that the beta tester's job isn't to play a game, but to break it.
That's what guys like Starlord on the respective forums would tell you over and over. And personally I think that's a big pile of bantha pudu. As a beta tester I am not bound by any code of honor, and I certainly don't need a NDA-**** running around that tells people what to do and what not. Even SE does not expect me to methodically break the game. It's cool if I try to, and nice for them, but I am not expected to. I didn't sign any paper that reads that I will WORK for them for free. I signed up as a beta tester because I want to try out the game. Not because I want to work. And certainly not because they deserve my loyalty.
By reading the posts on the... I mean, any... beta forum, you can easily tell who's been around on this planet for a while and who has not. Those with previous experience will just play, and report stuff they discover on the way. Because at this stage of development, bugs are discovered by human wave attacks, not by single-man commando operations anyway. It is those who have absolutely no clue that will constantly run around like a weasel on crack and try to organize, correct, and most of all:
regulate, admonish and correct other people. Because finally, finally, their own kindergarden interpretation of the NDA and the beta contract appears to provide them with an official justification to do so. Little man syndrome mixed with barely disguised authoritarianism. Totally oblivious of the fact that they are just one tiny, little, completely unimportant fish among 10.000s.
Pro-tip from papa rinsui: play the damn GAME as you normally would, make some friends for later, enjoy life, and report all the bugs you stumble over. That's all they ask for, and all you really need to do.
Edited, Feb 21st 2013 5:13am by Rinsui