Altarium

Client Overview

Game Intro
Altarium is a first-person horror game with an asymmetrical PVP Co-Op mode, playable by 1-5 players. In this intense game, players can choose to either play as victims or the sinister character hunting them. The core of the game lies in players strategically choosing their roles, shaping their fate, and striving to survive the eerie environment.
Challenge
Metavision Studio sought to ensure a seamless gaming experience for Altarium’s multiplayer mode. They required comprehensive playtests to identify network issues and gameplay bugs in the co-op mode. The main objectives were:
- Uncover hidden network issues that could disrupt the multiplayer experience.
- Identify gameplay bugs that might hinder player enjoyment and immersion.
- Ensure the overall smooth performance of the PVP Co-Op mode in real-world scenarios with multiple players.
Tested on
- Microsoft Windows

Solution

We conducted hour-long play tests with 50 participants per session. The focus was on simulating real gameplay conditions, with special attention to the game’s network performance and co-op gameplay mechanics. Our approach included:

Network Testing
Monitoring player connections, latency, and synchronization issues during multiplayer sessions.
Gameplay Bug Identification
Evaluating the co-op mode’s functionality, tracking any glitches, and ensuring that role-based mechanics worked as intended.
Real-World Simulation
Testing with a mix of players assuming both victim and sinister roles to ensure balanced, immersive gameplay for all.

Business Impact / Benefits Delivered

Network Issues Identified
We uncovered network-related issues that affected player synchronization in the co-op mode. These included latency spikes and disconnection problems, which were reported and later addressed by the development team.
Gameplay Bugs Resolved
Several gameplay bugs were identified, including problems with role-specific abilities not triggering correctly and occasional collision detection issues. These bugs were fixed in subsequent updates.
Enhanced Multiplayer Stability
As a result of our testing, the game’s PVP Co-Op mode now offers a smoother, more reliable experience for players, ensuring an engaging and competitive atmosphere.