I have never done a beta before.  I have only played three MMOs.  I do understand the general concept of beta testing.  Test before it goes live by "end users"  to find bugs, stress test, and some public feedback before release.  However I don't know what some of the working logistics are.

1.  Am I required to play so many hours and certain times of play?

2.  I am mostly a casual gamer between RL work, school, and social life.  Are they only looking for people that sit around and play games 12 hours a day.

3.  I've played Eve, SWG CU and NGE,  played a small portion of Wow.  Would this be considered acceptable or not as a resume?

4. Any general info and advice offered would be accepted.  If there are good websites for researching what is typical for beta testers, that would be good too.

The only thing on their site is the sign up email.  There was no details stating any of the conditions or responsibilities of beta testing this game

Again casual player, beta noob; wondering if it would be worth it.

Thanks

Originally posted by GrandAm

I have never done a beta before.  I have only played three MMOs.  I do understand the general concept of beta testing.  Test before it goes live by "end users"  to find bugs, stress test, and some public feedback before release.  However I don't know what some of the working logistics are.

1.  Am I required to play so many hours and certain times of play?

2.  I am mostly a casual gamer between RL work, school, and social life.  Are they only looking for people that sit around and play games 12 hours a day.

3.  I've played Eve, SWG CU and NGE,  played a small portion of Wow.  Would this be considered acceptable or not as a resume?

4. Any general info and advice offered would be accepted.  If there are good websites for researching what is typical for beta testers, that would be good too.

The only thing on their site is the sign up email.  There was no details stating any of the conditions or responsibilities of beta testing this game

Again casual player, beta noob; wondering if it would be worth it.

Thanks

You sound very much like the type of player I am and I've beta tested 6 games, including the original JG.  Obviously, the developers would like the "dedicated" players who really put in the effort to rag out their code, but that doesn't mean a more casual player cannot contribute.

You probably won't get into the first or even second round of beta (that is usually saved for the more rabid fans and those with a heavy beta-test resume.)  During your wait, educate yourself as much as possible on the game by reading the forums, official and otherwise.  That way, when you do log in, your learning curve is lessened slightly and your time can be best spent performing tasks that need testing.  Make contacts with other players, who you can hook up with when online and join whatever testing plan they have in work.

Don't be afraid to try things you might not in your "real" game life.  If you aren't a PvP player, try PvP.  If you hate the tedium of mining, go mine.  Different perspectives are needed in testing out a game.

Keep a note pad handy to jot down issues, thoughts and ideas and don't hesitate to post them through the appropriate channels.

Beta testing is fun and a great way to meet new people. 

  Betas are usually pretty laid back.  Early beta usually has certain times the server will be on , where late beta will be most of the time. The occasional patch and rollback occur.  You primary job is to play the game. Be active on the forums, let them know when you see bugs.   If the game is good, let them know, if it needs help let them know.   Have fun and remember that you are there to make the game better for everyone.