Beasts of balance
BLENDING PHYSICAL AND DIGITAL GAMEPLAY WITH SOCIAL PRESENCE
summary
Beasts of Balance is a game that integrates digital software and physical hardware. It breaks the mould of tech-based games being face-to-screen and is instead face-to-face.
my role
JUNIOR INDUSTRIAL DESIGNER
& ILLUSTRATOR
Development of 3D game pieces for manufacture (including design, modeling, prototype fabrication and testing)
Running weekly user-testing game evenings
Illustration of game visuals for digital and print
Develop game UX and UI
THE CHALLENGE
How might we create interactive games that provide face-to-face rather than face-to-screen experience?
WE LEARNED…
Simplicity affords flexibility
The complexity of language/gameplay/concepts can either enable or alienate different user groups.
Define user groups
Catering to 2 different user groups without a hierarchy can lead to alienation and confusion.
Know the market
Understand peoples’ buying habits when considering the price point to remain competitive.
Creativity in play
Game dynamics present opportunities for creative thinking and problem-solving while having fun.
WE CREATED…
In-game cues that prompt combined physical and digital gameplay.
Angular (low-poly) pieces afford stacking options as well as being stylised.
Quick rebuild after tower collapse to create space for excitement, teamwork and innovation.
Co-operative gameplay allows players to build together and accommodates players of all ages.
Material finish allows game pieces to grip one another, allowing a wider variety of stacking options.
