Access note: the project is intentionally restricted, so seeing an access-required page before receiving a key is expected. To volunteer, a short reply saying “I’m interested” is enough to start; we can confirm printing and group details afterward. You may begin with the included three-puzzle sample instead of committing to the full booklet. Sample-only feedback will be recorded separately from a completed full playtest. Keys will be sent only through an agreed private channel; please do not post private contact details publicly.
Hello! I’m working on The Midnight Post Office under NETMABE: an early English-language printable mystery about finding the destination of a letter in a closed post office.
I’m looking for five independent playtest groups. The eight linked puzzles use filtering, simple arithmetic, deduction and code-reading. The interiors are low-ink worksheets, not illustrated escape-room props.
You need a PDF reader, printer and pencils. The player booklet is 10 pages, with a separate 5-page hint/solution guide; A4 and US Letter versions and an independent three-puzzle sample are included. Group size and duration are not yet validated, so I won’t promise a playing time.
Specific feedback I need:
1. Where did you first need an explanation missing from the page?
2. Which puzzle felt satisfying, and which felt like repetitive lookup?
3. Could the supplied hints get you unstuck?
4. If you stopped, where and why?
AI disclosure: the scenario, text and puzzle development used generative AI, and the cover is AI-generated. Logic checks and author testing are complete; independent player testing is still pending.
Creator: https://netmabe.itch.io/
Project: https://netmabe.itch.io/the-midnight-post-office
This is a free, restricted playtest. The project link is not accessible until you receive access. Five itch.io download keys are prepared; an itch.io account is needed to claim one. If interested, reply with your group size and whether you can print the booklet. We can arrange a private way to deliver your key; please do not post your email or private details publicly.
No purchase, favorable review or rating is required. Critical feedback is welcome, including reasons for stopping. The first external tester will also help confirm that the access and download process works. Thank you!