What is a video game beta

Like any computer program, the first set up and programming framework of a game is usually called an "alpha", which is usually in a state where the basic mechanics work, but the game is largely unfinished. A "beta" version of a game is a game that is mostly finished, in fact usually *is* finished as far as the developers are concerned, but they are not confident to release it yet because they are working on a few more features, looking for errors and bugs to fix, or just want a final review of how well they produced the product before finally committing to mass production and selling the finished product. Essentially, a video game beta is a test version that is almost complete.