Quick answer: Volunteer testers (Discord regulars, beta sign-ups) often find more bugs than paid QA but need structure. A 90-minute bash with a checklist and a tracker plug-in produces solid output.
Volunteer testers are motivated; structure their motivation. The bash converts goodwill into bug reports.
Provide the build a week ahead
Volunteers play casually before the bash; bugs found through normal play arrive at the bash with reproductions.
Distribute a checklist
10 specific test scenarios. Each volunteer takes 2-3. Coverage spreads.
In-game bug reporter
F2 button. Volunteers' reports land in your tracker pre-tagged. No transcription.
Send thanks per report
Personal thanks for each report; the loyalty compounds. Volunteers return.
“Volunteer testers are a multiplier. Structure unlocks them.”
If your community has 50+ active players, a quarterly volunteer bash is a meaningful QA channel. Cheaper than dedicated QA staffing; engagement-positive.