Common Tests, Sandbox Tests, and Supertests: Your Definitive Guide

HOW THEY WORK | HOW TO JOIN | SHARE YOUR FEEDBACK

Greetings, Commanders!

Let's take a look at all the ins and outs of the main tests in World of Tanks: Common Tests, Sandbox Tests, and Supertests. We're always looking to enhance the game and implement fresh changes and updates based on your feedback and in-game behavior.

That's why these tests are so invaluable. We truly appreciate your participation in the tests and discussions. And by getting involved, you can access exclusive sneak peeks and influence new changes, additions, and in-game features!

In brief: Common Tests focus on upcoming update content, while Sandbox Tests tackle large-scale feature changes. Scroll down to find out more!


How They Work

Before developers release a test version of the client, each test is announced on the portal. Take a look at the test-by-test breakdown below and find out how you can download and join in the fun.

  • Common Test (Upcoming Update Content)
  • Sandbox Test (Large Features)
  • Supertest (Vehicles and Maps)

What is it?

A test of the next official version of the game before the update is deployed on the main servers. By this point, we're reasonably certain about the choices we've made and are keen to know your first impressions and see if you find any critical bugs.

Do EU players have access to this test?

Yes, anyone with the latest test client installed can participate, as long as they created their Wargaming.net account prior to the cut-off date mentioned in the article announcing the Common Test. The cut-off is usually 10 days before the test, but check the portal news for an exact date. Learn how to download and join the test client below.

When does it happen, and how long does it last?

Usually 2–4 weeks before the update is deployed, depending on how many rounds are planned. One round usually takes a week. Keep an eye on the portal for news and announcements. We'll always let you know when a new round of Common Tests has started.

What are the expected results?

Our priority is catching any technical bugs during the initial stages of testing. Common Tests allow us to gauge the new version under a higher load of users and on the various PC configurations that players use. This way, we can understand how the community feels about the changes.

How final are these changes, and at which stage of development do they occur?

Quite final. Unless we find a critical problem, this is the version of the game you'll likely see on the live server soon.

What kind of input do you expect from players?

We're looking for two things:

  • For you to play and interact with the new content (e.g., fresh items in the Garage, client functions, vehicles from new Tech Trees, etc.).
  • For you to voice your opinion about the changes and report any bugs you might have encountered. Learn how to share your feedback.

What is it?

A large-scale test of a major new or reworked game mechanic that impacts many—if not all—aspects of the game. When testing the most complex and nuanced mechanics, we try to create conditions that are as realistic as possible. During testing, we conduct important surveys and gather information about player behavior. This helps us determine which mechanics need improvement, which should be removed, and if there are any additions to be made. At this point, we're unsure about whether or not we'll implement this version. We're extremely grateful for any feedback, and we usually credit your account with juicy goodies as a reward for participating.

Do EU players have access to this test?

Yes, anyone with the latest Sandbox test client installed can participate, as long as they created their Wargaming.net account prior to the cut-off date mentioned in the article announcing the Sandbox Test. Check the portal news for the exact cut-off date. Learn how to download and join the test client below.

When does it happen, and how long does it last?

This sort of large-scale test happens approximately once or twice a year, depending on whether we have something significant, revolutionary, and new to test.

What are the expected results?

We're looking to prove (or disprove) a concept and test it under a higher load of users in order to decide whether our work should be scrapped or developed further.

How final are these changes, and at which stage of development do they occur?

Not final at all. At this stage, we wish to test an advanced concept.

What kind of input do you expect from players?

Statistical data and Sandbox survey results. If you participate, we're counting on you to complete the survey. We test the new solutions and use the existing game to see how our new features work. Clicks, shots, vehicle/ammo/crew choices, the route you take on the map—it all matters! Learn how to share your crucial feedback.

During the test period, you may be able to complete special missions on the Sandbox server and receive rewards in the main game client. Keep an eye out for the portal announcement to find out about everything you can get and what you need to do!

What is it?

A closed test of either a new addition to a well-established part of the game (like a map or vehicle pools), or changes to a pre-existing vehicle or map. These aren't major changes but rather tweaks to a series of variables in a new vehicle or map. The tests can be quite demanding and regimented. Often, Supertesters have a list of tasks they have to perform in a specific sequence.

Do EU players have access to this test?

Yes, EU players can apply for a Supertester position, but only Supertesters are able to participate. There are a limited number of Supertester positions available, and participating in these tests is a major time commitment and a big responsibility. Learn how to submit an application.

When does it happen, and how long does it last?

Whenever balance work is needed on a map, a vehicle, or a feature.

What are the expected results?

We usually test several versions of the same vehicle or map, then balance it based on the results.

How final are these changes, and at which stage of development do they occur?

This varies case by case. With some Supertests, we are reasonably sure which settings we wish to apply. With others, we may need to explore several options.

What kind of input do you expect from players?

Since the test itself is not open to a broader audience, we expect limited input from players. Nevertheless, you can still express your opinion by participating in surveys from the Community team. Learn how to share your feedback.


Please note:

  • Your test account is separate from your regular account. No achievements and/or research that you complete on the test client will be carried over to your main play account, but the test server is still subject to the same EULA and general rules as the World of Tanks game server. If you recently created your account, you may not be able to log in. However, you will have access to future tests and updates. The test version of your account may also be a little outdated compared to your main account. If you made some changes to your main account just before the test (e.g., you researched, sold, or bought a tank), these might not appear in the test client.
  • Financial transactions are not possible on the test server, and payments will not be accepted.
  • Test accounts are typically credited with gold, credits, and/or XP, depending on the nature of the test. For example, participants in a Common Test typically receive the following:
    • 100,000,000 
    • 100,000,000 
    • 20,000 

How to Download and Join the Test

Only applicable for Common and Sandbox Tests. Only Supertesters have access to the Supertest.

Installing the test server is similar to installing the regular World of Tanks game. To participate, follow these step-by-step instructions:

  1. Download the test client installer (link provided in the announcement article). Make sure you close all game clients.
  2. Run the test client installer. Choose a different installation folder from the one you use for your regular World of Tanks game files. The Wargaming.net Game Center will download all the additional data (this amount may vary).
  3. Log in to your Wargaming.net account with your usual login details (email and password) if requested.
  4. Select the newly installed test client from the dropdown menu in the Wargaming.net Game Center.
  5. Soak up all the changes, and remember to give us your feedback!

If you have already installed the test game client, the launcher will automatically update with the new version.

You can find a detailed description of the Wargaming.net Game Center and the installation process in the WGC guide.

WARGAMING.NET GAME CENTER GUIDE


How to Apply for the Supertest

The Supertest is an early test iteration of intended changes, improvements, and new content. It is a closed test limited to a fixed number of players called Supertesters. Supertesters must apply to the program through the Supertest application form below.

To be a Supertester, you must meet the following criteria:

  • You are at least 18 years old
  • You are able to speak and read English
  • You are available to attend Supertests at least 3–4 times a week for the duration of the entire test session (for 2+ hours)
  • You have at least 100 GB of free hard drive space for test clients
  • You have played at least 5,000 battles, including at least 500 in Tier X vehicles
  • You have close to a 50% overall win rate
  • You have access to Discord (mandatory)
  • You have access to TeamSpeak3 (mandatory)
  • You agree to sign and comply with an NDA (Non-Disclosure Agreement)
  • You participate regularly in tests of vehicles, maps, and other changes
  • You are willing to find and report bugs to the Quality Assurance team
  • You provide descriptions of your observations, impressions, and opinions via mandatory feedback forms

If you are eligible and interested, you will be asked to complete the Supertest application form. Keep in mind that there are a limited number of Supertester positions available, and not everyone will be selected. When the application process becomes open to players, the Supertest application form will be shared via news on the Portal.

If you have any questions about the Supertest requirements or anything related to the Supertest, you can reach out via the forums and the dedicated Supertest Discord channel (in English only).


Share Your Feedback

Help us evaluate new concepts and let us know your opinions, impressions, and ideas. The more active you are, the more you'll help us understand the effectiveness of any changes, and the more likely your contributions will impact the game.

In the case of Common and Sandbox Tests, once you log in to the test client, you're free to play as much or as little as you'd like. Try out all the new features, see what you can do, and let us know what you think. Once the test period has ended, we'll collate your observations and pass along suggestions to the development team. Even if you're unable to participate in the Supertest, you can still voice your opinions on our intended changes.

Remember, the Common, Sandbox, and Supertest are about testing! Every new feature is subject to change before the final release.

How and Where to Share

  • Forum thread: The necessary link(s) will be posted in the portal announcement prior to the test.
  • World of Tanks EU Discord: The official channel is in English, Polish, German, French, and Czech.
  • Community Managers: Contact your regional Community Manager on our official forum via private message or on our Discord server. Don't be shy, we're here to help you! Browse our list of Community Team members.
  • Supertest leak surveys: We often prepare a quick survey regarding the contents of the leak on our official Discord channels and our official Supertest forum section.
  • Sandbox surveys: After fulfilling the minimum activity criteria, you will receive an invitation to participate in a survey. Further information is provided in the dedicated Sandbox article on the portal. The survey will be accessible in the game client when you're logged in to your main account.
  • YouTube video comments: Whenever a game event or major change is introduced into the game, we usually make a video to summarize the main changes, dive into the most important game mechanics, and explain them clearly. Feel free to leave some comments below these videos, too. A few notable examples include:

While we encourage you to use other mediums for general discussion, please do not use stream chats, Facebook groups, or unofficial channels to post your feedback.

What Makes Good Feedback?

Here are some examples of feedback you can pass along:

  • Any bugs or glitches that you've found. Did you get stuck somewhere on the map? Did the game crash when you did something specific? Please tell us all about it! Provide replays, screenshots, and your WGCheck report.
  • Honest feedback about vehicles and game mechanics. If you think something doesn't function or perform well, please notify us.
  • Constructive feedback. This isn't just about pointing out flaws or aspects you don't like! Why don't you like them? What do you like? Why? This helps our developers understand what makes you tick, so they can implement changes accordingly.
  • In-game behavior, like your actions, movements, and choices on the battlefield. When accumulated over time, these behaviors provide fantastic statistical data that we can use to improve the game.

Please be aware that further tweaks and adjustments are likely. Every new feature is subject to change before the final release. Final changes will be announced via a portal announcement, and patchnotes of recent and past updates will be available to browse.


Jump in and share your feedback, Commanders. Together, we can make World of Tanks even better!

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