Which type of test is recommended to ensure the entire game runs smoothly after a segment is committed?

A regression test is a crucial practice in software development, particularly in game development, as it is designed to verify that new code changes do not adversely affect existing functionality. When a new segment of code is committed, regression testing ensures that previously tested features still perform as expected after the updates.

This type of testing involves rerunning a suite of existing tests against the codebase to check for any discrepancies or bugs introduced by the new changes. By systematically validating that the game still operates smoothly and meets the expected behavior, developers can maintain a stable and functional product throughout the development lifecycle. This is particularly vital in gaming, where various systems interact and any new code can potentially trigger issues elsewhere.

The other testing types, while valuable in their specific contexts, do not focus primarily on confirming that existing functionality remains intact after changes. Performance tests assess how well the game operates under stress or load, integration tests focus on the interactions between different modules, and user acceptance tests evaluate whether the game meets user needs and expectations. Each serves a distinct purpose, but regression testing is specifically aimed at safeguarding the integrity of the entire game after code modifications.