PROTOTYPING, USABILITY AND ACCESSIBILITY

This phase sees UX professionals collaborating with developers and designers to create interactive prototypes. Fast prototypes are essential for testing and refining gameplay elements and user interfaces. Through iterative testing and user feedback, UX teams help in pinpointing and resolving usability issues, enhancing the overall player experience, and most importantly… finding the FUN! This iterative approach ensures that the game is technically sound while meeting the high standards of player engagement and satisfaction.

Accessibility is also a critical focus even in early prototyping. Initial considerations address the access layer, ensuring players can perceive what is happening in the game and can take control of actions.

Common Collaborators

Across several large and small game studios (Starform, ArenaNet, Motiga) I’ve performed UX and UI design work to support rapid, data-informed iteration throughout early development.

I’ve collaborated closely with Game Designers to integrate UX principles throughout all aspects of prototype software, and forged strong partnerships with QA and Accessibility Teams who rigorously test for usability issues.

In my work on Gigantic, I partnered with the Director of Microsoft’s Usability Lab to conduct regular playtests and produce summary reports to inform the work of my UX team.

Methods and Artifacts

This phase includes conducting usability tests to evaluate how easily players can navigate and enjoy the game, organizing playtesting sessions to observe real-time interaction with the game, and iterating based on player feedback to continuously improve the game experience.

• Sketches and Wireframes facilitate the rapid iteration of interface and gameplay ideas, enabling quick feedback and refinement of user interactions.

• Functional Prototypes test and validate gameplay mechanics and user interactions, ensuring they meet user needs and enhance the overall experience.

• Usability Testing evaluates the game's design and functionality with real users, identifying issues to improve before further development.

• Accessibility Testing of core features ensures the game is usable and enjoyable for players with diverse abilities, embedding inclusivity into fundamental design choices.