How to access Wildcard playtests and record content

Wildcard has started implementing private playtest windows aimed at content creators. During these periods, a select group of players gains early access to the new version of the game with the ability to record videos or livestreams.

The initiative seeks to balance two objectives: enabling the creation of engaging content for the community while maintaining control over what is shown from a patch before its public release.

What Are Private Creation Windows?

Private playtests in Wildcard are limited testing sessions where developers make a development build of the game available.

Unlike an open playtest, where any player can join and freely share images or videos, these private creation windows work as a controlled space for selected creators to generate content.

This means access is not open: it is granted through invitations and comes with very specific rules on what can or cannot be shown.

Content Recording: Permissions and Rules

The ability to record within these sessions is a valuable tool, but it also comes with commitments. According to the guidelines shared on Wildcard’s official site and communication channels, creators must:

• Request prior authorization through the official Discord channel or a dedicated ticket.
• Respect content embargoes, since not everything included in the build can be made public immediately.
• Record following defined technical parameters, such as resolution, format, or even watermarks on the video.
• Submit material for review, in some cases before publishing, to ensure that features in development are not revealed.

Why Record in a Private Playtest?

For the Wildcard team, allowing creators to record has a dual benefit:

1. Gather detailed feedback. Videos directly show how players interact with new mechanics, making it easier to identify bugs and unexpected behaviors.
2. Generate community hype. Although publishing content is often restricted until a set time, once lifted, it works as organic promotion supported by creators with an established audience.

Additionally, these sessions can enable events and community-driven activities, such as OLA Guild Games with the development of the OLA CUP.

Industry References

Wildcard’s approach is not unique: many companies rely on this closed testing model with recording. Services like PlaytestCloud, for example, require participants to record the entire screen during the session to obtain an accurate record of the experience.

The difference in Wildcard’s case is that these recordings are not only used for feedback but are also intended as content creation material, subject to control and embargoes.

Recommendations for Creators

For those participating in one of these private windows, best practices include:

• Carefully reviewing the official guidelines before recording.
• Using reliable capture software and configuring quality to balance performance and clarity.
• Disabling system notifications to prevent them from appearing on screen.
• Always saving original copies of recordings in case the Wildcard team requests them.
• Coordinating publishing dates and respecting embargoes communicated by the studio.

Conclusion

The private creation windows in Wildcard represent a strategy that combines internal testing with early content generation. While access is limited and rules are strict, these sessions allow developers to gather first-hand feedback while also setting the stage for future communication campaigns with the support of trusted creators.

The success of this approach depends on balancing confidentiality and creativity: developers ensure control over sensitive material, while creators gain the opportunity to showcase upcoming content before anyone else.