THE PROCESS
Defining requirements and Research
Requirements were identified through a collaborative workshop with the developer. This session clarified the core loop, key features, and potential issues that needed to be addressed.
Research Plan
I developed a research plan, which included an extensive benchmarking analysis of 10 mobile games similar to "Heads Up!" (e.g., Czółko, What am I?, HeadBang!, etc.)
Findings Summary
Ads: Commonly shown after gameplay, before displaying results; banner ads in the menu were generally poorly received.
Microtransactions: Often related to accessing premium playlists.
Onboarding: Typically minimal, with instructions available before gameplay or under a "?" icon.
Login: Not required except in paid, premium versions.
Menu Layout: Generally composed of a top bar, tiles, and a bottom bar.
Game Actions: Actions like "Correct" and "Pass" could often be customized in settings.
Timer: Default countdown from 60 seconds, with options to adjust to 90 or 120 seconds.
Text Layout: Clock at the top, password in the middle, usually in white font.
Audio Feedback: Sounds for correct/pass actions, countdowns, button clicks, and optional background music.
Color Palette: Generally colorful with white fonts.
Common Issues:
- Limited customization options
- Quickly becomes repetitive
- Unclear controls
- Intrusive ads
- A significant amount of paid content
For Polish speakers:
Research plan: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1xoGBlpJlU5VgWOd9BD_sliqh-rwYMr1teU6FOmPSwBE/edit
Brief:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1KoDtsJZ2cGHsd4wEg4iUeqWgdQWNtNC5AgeEoauZGOI/edit
Benchmarking + Desk research: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/11STx4ALk2oQ0Ceglg0pFe1Iv4ljeoFWFGPCslLOLpdM/edit?gid=432707469#gid=432707469
Analysis and Planning
I structured the game's information architecture based on user needs and pain points identified in the research. Additionally, I created a moodboard and selected a color palette for the UI design, aligning with the simple and intuitive game experience.
Design and Prototyping
Using the Material Design Kit and icons, I designed the initial set of low-fidelity wireframes. Unfortunately the project did not advance to the prototyping phase.
