AccelByte PlaytestHub vs IndieLaunch

AccelByte PlaytestHub is an open-source, self-hosted application for running closed game playtests from applications through feedback. Players apply for a place, accept an NDA, get a game code or download, play, and complete a survey. Studios can distribute Steam keys, AGS Campaign redemption codes, or ADT build download URLs. Players sign in with Discord through AGS IAM, which provides the backend with an AGS user identity. Studios can review signups, manage code pools, examine structured feedback, and send bulk announcements from the AGS Admin Portal. Surveys support versioned text, 1–5 ratings, and multiple-choice questions; players must accept a revised NDA before submitting a survey response. Playtest windows can open and close on a schedule, and a configured number of initial signups can be approved automatically. The backend runs as an AGS Extend Service Extension, while the player frontend is a static bundle. The hosted admin UI is currently available for Internal Shared Cloud only. The MIT-licensed tool costs nothing and requires AGS Extend.

IndieLaunch helps indie developers run playtests with their own communities and track aggregate conversion from testers to Steam reviews. Developers create a round by naming the game, adding a build link or download key, and selecting feedback focus areas. Testers respond through a shareable invite link without creating an account. Feedback is organized into Bugs, Suggestions, and Praise, with custom questions available. A Discord bot accepts the /feedback command and screenshot attachments. Testers can sign in with Steam, while the review tracker shows aggregate review conversion. Pro adds an individual reviewer breakdown and a list of testers available for outreach. Free includes unlimited rounds, CSV export, and shareable round reports; Pro adds Steam key distribution and Steam data in a summary email. The site says a round can be set up in two minutes. IndieLaunch is web-based, uses customer-list recruitment, distributes builds by link, and gathers survey feedback. Free costs nothing, billed $0/forever; Pro costs $12 a month, billed $12/month.