We’ve all grown accustomed to thinking about User Experience (UX) and User Interface (UI) in terms of apps and websites. These digital products have a clear purpose: to deliver information or facilitate tasks. But games are different. They’re not just tools; they’re experiences.
Historically, UX and UI have been intertwined. This makes sense for apps where the user’s journey is largely linear. But games? They’re vast, open worlds with countless paths. The lines between UX and UI blur, and traditional design principles can feel restrictive.
When we talk about a game’s product, we often focus on the gameplay itself. But a game is so much more. It’s the marketing that draws players in, the community that keeps them engaged, the menus that guide their choices, the environments that immerse them, and the gameplay that challenges and rewards them. Every aspect contributes to the overall user experience.
To create truly exceptional games, we need to expand our understanding of UX. It’s not just about making menus intuitive or buttons easy to press. It’s about crafting a holistic experience that resonates with players on multiple levels.
So, what does this mean for game designers, UX designers, and leaders?
By expanding our perspective on UX, we can create games that not only entertain but also inspire, connect, and leave a lasting impact.
To truly understand your players and create unforgettable experiences, it’s essential to conduct thorough UX research. By gathering insights into player behavior, motivations, and pain points, you can make data-driven decisions that enhance every aspect of your game.
By embracing a multi-dimensional approach to UX and investing in robust research, you can create games that not only entertain but also captivate and inspire.