Tour de France 2026

Client Overview

Game Intro
NACON is a well-established game publisher known for delivering high-quality AA games. For this project, the client focused on developing Tour de France 2026 — a multi-platform cycling simulation designed to provide players with an immersive and realistic racing experience across PC and consoles.
Business Requirements
The primary objective was to support the client’s internal QA processes by providing reliable and scalable testing resources.
Key Goals:
- Conduct comprehensive functional testing across multiple platforms (PC and Consoles).
- Ensure consistent quality and stability of game builds throughout development.
- Provide regular support for certification testing cycles (Sony/Microsoft compliance).
- Fast adaptation to changing requirements and seamless integration into the client’s existing workflows.
Tested on
- PC (Steam)
- PlayStation 5
- PlayStation 5 Pro
- Xbox Series X|S

Team Setup

1 QA Lead: Coordinated processes, communication, and ensured high-quality testing execution.
1 Full-time QA Specialist: Ensured continuous testing coverage throughout the development cycle.
Up to 6 QA Engineers: Engaged during high workload periods, especially during critical certification phases.

Game Testing Solutions

Functional Testing
Validation of core gameplay mechanics, progression systems, and newly implemented features.
Certification Testing
Preparation for platform compliance requirements, scaling the team to meet submission schedules.
Localization (Non-linguistic)
Verification of visual display and consistency of localized content within the game UI.
UI/UX Testing
Analysis of navigation, visual consistency, and alignment with design expectations.
Level Design (3D)
Testing level structure, navigation, and environmental details in a 3D environment.
Gameplay & Flow
Verification of interactions and game flow to ensure alignment with the intended design.
Bug Tracking
Detailed reporting with clear reproduction steps and prioritization for accelerated resolution.
Feedback & Suggestions
Providing insights for player experience improvements within the Game Director’s vision.

Business Impact / Benefits Delivered

The implementation of this structured QA approach led to measurable improvements:rn

Enhanced Game Stability
Thorough testing ensured the game maintained a stable state across all supported platforms, including mid-gen consoles.
Improved Issue Visibility
Clear and structured reporting provided the client with fast, actionable insights into detected issues.
Efficient Certification Readiness
Regular cycles and scalable resources allowed for smooth preparation for platform certification (Sony/Xbox).
Seamless Collaboration
Close alignment with the client’s workflows enabled quick adaptation to changing priorities.
Accelerated Development Support
A proactive QA approach helped maintain development momentum and improved the overall quality of the final product.