How we actually test whether a game is offline

'Offline' gets used loosely. Plenty of games run offline for a bit, then quietly demand a connection when you try to save or advance. So we have a small routine for every game we cover.

First we install and open it once on Wi-Fi, because most games need an initial download. Then airplane mode goes on and stays on for the entire test period, usually several days.

We deliberately try to trigger the moments that need a network: saving, unlocking content, changing settings, restarting the app. If anything breaks, it goes in the review, plainly.

We also note battery behavior and how big the install is, since offline players are often on trips with limited storage and no charger nearby.