Would there be a way we could have a Beta Testers Group much like the Review Board where new designers and people newer to the site could start a game and it would invite a bunch of people who could help them with issues.  I find that at least half of the Review games I get invited to are not ready for review but the people don't really know where else to turn to.  They don't actually know any of us and aren't sure if we'd be willing to join a test game or not.  I know that I didn't start designing until I had several hundred games played and I still asked some players I'd played against a lot if they would test with me.  The forums are a tad intimidating for n00bs and the thread of who will test is hard to find.

I think this would allow the people who are familiar with the design tool and some graphic design software programs to give tips.  If there could be an option for the beta testing group to start a game and perhaps a popup that comes up when you submit for review that says

"Has this map been tested?  Would you like to start a test game before submitting for review?
Note:  Maps that don't meet certain requirements will not pass review"

And then allow them to click "Review" or "Test" to start a game.  Honestly, I would rather help people with fill issues, factory use, bonus balance and stuff like that than actually review the map.

As an intimidated n00b (well at least a n00b), that sounds helpful. At least a link to the sticky for dev volunteers in the help section would be nice (the part that says: "Check out the Board Designer's Chat forum for more help with Board Design." looks like it should have a link, but doesn't work in my browser).

My #1 request as a fledgling board designer would be easier alpha testing. I would like a button in the design section someplace that would start a dev game where I am playing every seat (although going through the time to create another account, download another browser, and the switch between them for a test game does give a wonderful hazing experience that might keep the riffraff out).

Speaking of which, I made a 2 player board that I would love feedback on. Any takers?

Korrun wrote:

As an intimidated n00b (well at least a n00b), that sounds helpful. At least a link to the sticky for dev volunteers in the help section would be nice (the part that says: "Check out the Board Designer's Chat forum for more help with Board Design." looks like it should have a link, but doesn't work in my browser).

My #1 request as a fledgling board designer would be easier alpha testing. I would like a button in the design section someplace that would start a dev game where I am playing every seat (although going through the time to create another account, download another browser, and the switch between them for a test game does give a wonderful hazing experience that might keep the riffraff out).

Yep. That's what some of us do, and yep, it's seems to be pretty high up there on the request list.

Speaking of which, I made a 2 player board that I would love feedback on. Any takers?

Absolutely ..invite me. Also, if you want just general feedback, just post the url to the design page.  There are probably a number of folks who would offer some advise ..without the need to actually play the board.

Korrun wrote:

As an intimidated n00b (well at least a n00b), that sounds helpful. At least a link to the sticky for dev volunteers in the help section would be nice (the part that says: "Check out the Board Designer's Chat forum for more help with Board Design." looks like it should have a link, but doesn't work in my browser).

Link fixed, and added a blurb at the bottom of the Getting Started page and the Board Design FAQ.

I'm always game for testing something new, feel free to invite me to any Dev game.

And +1 for Risky's suggestion. It's tough sometimes to find people to try something for the 5th time...

+1