Blacknut is expanding LeLab so publishers and developers can share demos, betas and Early Access games through the cloud. Announced November 9th, LeLab 2.0 will also let creators collect feedback and usage data without distributing individual builds or managing game keys.
LeLab isn’t entirely new. Blacknut announced the program in May 2024, ahead of the VivaTech conference, as a testing space for cloud-native game ideas. In our October 2024 interview with Blacknut, we discussed how LeLab let creators share experimental cloud-native gameplay and gather feedback. LeLab 2.0 expands on that idea with more ways to test games during development.
Developers Can Test Games Without Distributing Builds
Publishers can offer demos covering a limited part of a game or restrict how long someone can play. Betas and Early Access releases can have their own conditions and timelines, set by each publisher. That gives studios control over what they put in front of people before a wider release.
LeLab 2.0 also provides a way to arrange playtests with gaming communities, journalists, publishers and investors. Developers can collect feedback alongside information about how people discover their games and experience them in the cloud. Those responses can help a studio decide what to change as development continues.
LeLab 2.0 Uses Blacknut’s Global Cloud Network
Blacknut’s cloud gaming service reaches gamers in more than 65 countries, and LeLab 2.0 will use that existing distribution network. That could let creators test games on Smart TVs, streaming devices, phones and web browsers. People taking part wouldn’t need to download a separate build.
Testing a game on a Smart TV isn’t the same as trying it on a phone or through a browser. LeLab can show creators how games work across those cloud environments, not just on a single local PC.
Blacknut Wants to Support Cloud-Native Game Development
“Cloud gaming is not simply about bringing games to the cloud. It opens up new possibilities for how games can be designed, experienced and shared with players,” Thierry Teyssier said in Blacknut’s announcement.
Beyond demos and Early Access games, LeLab 2.0 will also give developers a place to experiment with cloud-native game concepts and see how people respond.
The program is also intended for independent developers, students and other emerging creators, not only established publishers. They could share early work through the cloud and get feedback before committing to a wider release.
There’s no word yet on which games will be available through LeLab 2.0 or when we’ll get to try them. Developers who want to learn more can contact Blacknut at [email protected].
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