LIVE SERVICE MANAGEMENT AND PRODUCT EVOLUTION

In this ongoing phase, UX teams are instrumental in guiding the long-term evolution of the game. We analyze player behavior, community feedback, and performance data to inform updates and new features. Continuous engagement ensures that the game adapts to changing player needs and preferences, maintaining its relevance and appeal. UX professionals work hand-in-hand with game designers, content creators, and community managers to keep the game fresh, engaging, and aligned with user expectations.

Common Collaborators

In a live service environment, franchise tentpoles (Guild Wars 2) and smaller studio titles (MetalStorm, Gigantic, Hawken) have a few things in common.

UX Designers must partner with Game Designers to ensure new features adhere to the game’s existing design systems while growing and varying the player experience in new and interesting ways.

Business Analysts and Market Researchers can help UX professionals identify emerging design trends and find opportunities for product evolution. It’s also critical that Community Managers engage with players to gather continuous feedback, and Data Analysts interpret player behavior to inform future UX design work.

Methods and Artifacts

Conducting long-term UX studies helps understand how user preferences evolve over time, community management facilitates ongoing dialogue with players, and applying iterative design based on user feedback ensures the game remains relevant and engaging.

• Usability Improvement Plans document identified usability issues and the strategies for addressing them.

• Feature Update Roadmaps outline planned updates, new features, and enhancements based on user feedback and market analysis.

• Community Engagement through forums, social media, and in-game channels directly informs the type and prioritization of new features.

• Ongoing Market Analysis informs updates and expansions by identifying emerging player trends and preferences, ensuring the game remains relevant and competitive.