Game test build delivery
How do you send a large game build to testers?
A playable build usually contains more than the executable. Data folders, runtimes, configuration, and patch files need to stay together. Choose the complete build folder in 8ma Quick Transfer to deliver the same structure to a tester.
Run the build once on a computer without the development environment, then share the complete folder. When the tester starts the download, the data moves directly from the development device instead of waiting for a full cloud upload first.
Check the build folder before sending
- Keep the executable, data folders, runtime libraries, and launch configuration together.
- Include symbols, crash tools, and logging instructions only when the test requires them.
- Add a short file with the version, known issues, and reproduction steps.
- Remove credentials, internal accounts, and development-only configuration.
Why send the complete folder?
Game builds often contain many dependent files. Desktop Chrome and Edge can select a folder containing up to 20,000 files, while a single file can be up to 200 GB. The receiver sees a recommendation for ZIP or original-folder saving based on the folder, with the speed and recovery tradeoff explained.
When should you use a release platform?
Direct transfer works well for one or two testers who are online now. An artifact repository, object storage, or release platform is a better fit when builds must remain available, many testers download at different times, or the client needs automatic updates.
Make the handoff easier to test
- Put the version and build date in the folder and test notes.
- Send the link, QR code, or 8-character pickup code to the tester.
- Keep both pages open, then ask the tester to launch the build after the download finishes.