Star Wars: The Old Republic - Designing the GUI Customization System
In the video below, Michael Voigt describes how they designed this system at BioWare, creating an intuitive toolset for better gameplay experiences.
GUI customization in MMORPG games refers to the ability for players to personalize or modify the game's Graphical User Interface (GUI) elements according to their preferences. This includes altering the layout, appearance, size, or functionality of various UI components such as health bars, maps, inventory panels, action bars, chat boxes, and more. Players often have options to rearrange or resize these elements and even add or remove specific UI features to enhance their gameplay experience.
"Our challenge was to offer a system that was robust yet easy to navigate. We wanted players to have control over the layout, appearance, and functionalities without overwhelming them with complexity."
The journey began with extensive research, understanding player behaviors, preferences, and the impact of UI on their immersion within the game. Collaborating closely with the development team, Michael's vision focused on crafting a system that balanced functionality with flexibility. [continued below]
The iterative design process involved creating wireframes, prototypes, and mock-ups to visualize the various customization options. Each element was meticulously crafted, from resizable and movable interface components to thematic variations, ensuring a cohesive and visually stunning experience.
"Empowering players meant providing a myriad of options without compromising accessibility. The system needed to be intuitive for newcomers while offering depth for seasoned players."
The GUI customization system, a culmination of months of dedication and innovation, offered players an extensive suite of tools to tailor their adventures in the Star Wars universe.
These adjustments were mainly punctuation and capitalization for consistency and clarity. Great job overall!