Prototype

A prototype is a stage of design before the final one. Prototype video games are created during development for playtesting and bug reporting purposes. Usually, a prototype game doesn't leave the developers' offices, but occasionally one finds its way out and onto the internet.

Prototypical stages

• Pre-Alpha: Only used in certain games for very early development
• Alpha: All the development up to beta
• Beta: All major game modes and features are closed; game is now being heavily tested for bugs by SOA's QA
• Final/Gold: Finished and sold product