Hi everyone. I'm trying to get back in the swing of things as I'm going to have a few months off from work that I'll be focussing on developing a couple of apps. I love the AppGameKit and am excited to use it. I am, however, a little cautious to deploy an app built on this platform since I keep hearing and seeing bugs.
Unfortunately, this is more likely the issue with all of the nuances that come with an OS being ported to so many different devices where manufacturers have decided to toss in their own tweaks here and there.
We've got a really awesome community here on TGC and I'm thrilled that even though I've been away for a few months, I come back and see familiar faces still posting.
What I'd like to propose is creating a registry of people who are willing to use their devices to assist in testing apps prior to deployment. I know this is a sticky point because many are concerned about protecting their intellectual property.
I see a few options to overcome such fear:
1. Developers could submit a watered-down version of their app for testing (doesn't contain full levels, doesn't contain final media - images have ugly X's on them, something along those lines).
2. It could be a closed group of individuals who must sign a Non-disclosure agreement with the developer. This can get sticky with folks in different countries, so it is not optimal.
3. An honor system where if it is determined that one of the group steals an app idea that they will be shunned, banished, and given horrible reviews in the app markets.
In my opinion, #1 would be the optimal approach, while at the same time having an honor code that testers agree to.
Is anyone else interested in this? I understand it would be a risk, and maybe something that TGC doesn't want to be involved in. I look at it like this: I'd rather have a tested app available in the app store that I'm confident it works than be concerned with someone stealing it. Because if it is a good, interesting game, someone can steal it anyway. But if mine works and is available first on the market I have a better chance for success.
Currently I have 3 devices I'd be happy to test anyone's app on and I'd be happy to sign an NDA if they'd like. I'd really like to see the success of developers from here and I know many of us don't have the money to spend on companies that test apps.
If anyone is interested in joining a group like this please reply here and I'll start a google group for us to converse in further (unless TGC is glad to host us).
I have the following devices at my disposal:
Motorola Droid X (Android 2.3)
HTC Droid Incredible 2 (Android 2.3)
Nexus 7 (Android 4.1 - soon to be 4.2, I hope)
In February it is likely that I will have two, newer phones at my disposal.
Thanks!
-Sean Mann
Napland Games
