The thrill of playtesting

It's exciting watching someone play a game you've invented! 

For a long time now, I've been having my students invent and playtest each other's games.  In addition to a great communicative opportunity both within and about the game, the students feel good because the games are then donated to high schools.  For many, it's possibly the first truly communicative work they've done in English.

Recently, the show was on the other foot: I got to playtest a game I invented.  Now I can see why it's so exciting!  It's a little scary sending your little game out to be played without your supervision, but watching other people arguing and enjoying themselves playing a game you designed...wow!