I thought an informative topic would be what people consider to be their "rules" of playtesting. What MUST be done before you ask strangers to play your game? How do you attract/incentivize testers? How do you retain their feedback?
Jumping from a recent thread on the game "Blaggards," I've attached an image of the type of prototype sheet which I create for testers to wrap their heads around my games. These are designed so that potential testers can then make a more informed decision as to whether or not it's something they'd like to play.
Being prepared, and being respectful of people's time, are perhaps the most important aspects of testing...and I've found this form to be very helpful in weeding out those not interested in certain types of games, as well as reeling in those who are.
What else do you guys do to make the most of your playtest sessions?
