Before this class, I underestimated the amount of intentionality required when designing games. From games as complex as League of Legends to more simplistic games like Flappy Bird, I always thought game design was primarily about creativity and fun, with little regard for the intricacies of user experience. My prior understanding of UX was mostly bound within the confines of mobile applications and web apps, which felt more rigid and structured. I saw UX design as a process focused on functionality and ease of use, with a clear set of rules and guidelines.
However, taking this class introduced me to a different perspective on UX design, one that is far more complex and involved. I’ve come to see UX as a process that extends beyond the digital product to encompass the user’s entire experience, including their cognitive processes, perceptions, and the broader context of their lives. In a way, I’ve begun to understand what it means to design user experiences that feel like a microcosm of the real world. Game design, in particular, has highlighted this concept for me, as games often mirror real-world dynamics through artificial contexts.
Working on our P1, really helped me understand how the process of game design goes beyond the design of visual assets, and instead is very carefully thought out when considering even simple game mechanics and rules. Working on our P2, also felt like an impactful experience as it involved multiple stages, from brainstorming and conceptualizing to playtesting and iterating on our design. Through this process, I learned about the importance of balancing game mechanics, creating engaging narratives, and ensuring that the user experience is both intuitive and enjoyable. Specifically when working on our P2 it felt really helpful to playtest and receive user feedback. I realized that no matter how well-thought-out a design might be, real user feedback is crucial for identifying issues and making improvements. This is another important learning I’d like to continue emphasizing when considering my career in UX design. In my future projects, I would like to place greater emphasis on testing prototypes with real users and refining the design based on their experiences. I was really nervous coming into this class because of my limited knowledge in designing games and how difficult of a process it seemed to me. However, having such a helpful team as well as CAs made the process feel less daunting.
Next time, or if I continue working on my games, I will place even greater emphasis on the player’s journey. I will aim to create experiences that are not only fun but also meaningful and engaging. I will continue to prioritize user feedback and iteration, always looking for ways to improve and refine my designs. Ultimately, this class has equipped me with a new set of tools and perspectives that will help me create better, more immersive experiences for users.
This personal journey through 247G has been transformative, and I’m excited to apply these insights to my future work. I look forward to continuing to explore the fascinating world of game design and user experience, constantly learning and growing along the way.
