What Video Games Can Teach Us About UX/UI 

UX (User Experience) and UI (User Interface) are critical concepts in the digital world. UX focuses on how users interact with a product, ensuring it is functional, enjoyable, and accessible, while UI deals with the visual elements that help users navigate through a system. Together, they create a seamless experience that meets user needs.

There are many ways to understand better UX/UI, particularly within the business world. For instance, websites, mobile apps, and digital products all require strong UX/UI design to retain users and encourage engagement. Another interesting and perhaps surprising way to learn more about these principles is through video games.

Here are five key lessons video games can teach us about UX/UI. 

Immersive User Experience in Video Games

Video games are known for providing highly interactive and engaging user experiences. Players are drawn into the game world through a combination of visual design, storytelling, and real-time feedback, making the experience immersive. This concept of immersion can be translated into UX design, where the aim is to create environments that hold the user's attention and keep them engaged with minimal distractions.

For example, consider how open-world games allow players to explore vast environments without overwhelming them. The design encourages exploration while subtly guiding the player toward objectives. This balance is applicable to casino games, too, where the interface must engage users without distracting them from their primary goal — playing and enjoying the game.

Intuitive Controls and Navigation

In video games, controls must be intuitive for players to enjoy the experience. Gamers want to pick up a controller or start playing on a touchscreen without needing a manual to understand the basics. The same idea applies to UI design—users should navigate an app or website effortlessly without feeling confused or frustrated.

For example, think of popular mobile games where the controls are so simple that users can dive right into the gameplay without instructions. The simplicity doesn’t mean a lack of depth but rather an intentional design that prioritises ease of use. Similarly, in digital products, a simple and intuitive interface can enhance user satisfaction by making navigation straightforward and easy to understand.

Feedback and Response Systems

One of the key elements in video games is immediate feedback. Whether it’s a sound indicating a successful action or a visual cue when an objective is met, feedback is essential for letting players know they’re progressing. This concept is critical for UX/UI design as well. Users who interact with a digital product need instant feedback, whether it's a button click, a form submission, or a loading screen.

In a strategy game, for example, when a player performs an action like moving a unit, the game instantly acknowledges the action with a sound or visual effect. Similarly, in digital design, users expect feedback when they interact with a product. A form submission should trigger a confirmation message, or a clicked button should change to show it was pressed.

Onboarding and Tutorials

Games are excellent at introducing players to new mechanics through tutorials or onboarding processes. Instead of overwhelming users with all the information at once, games gradually teach players how to interact with the game world. This approach can also be applied to UX/UI design, where onboarding is often necessary to help users understand how to use a product effectively.

Take role-playing games (RPGs), for example. Players are typically introduced to gameplay mechanics through brief tutorials that allow them to practice before moving on to more complex elements. This gradual introduction prevents frustration and ensures users feel confident. Similarly, digital products can use onboarding features to guide users through new tools or functions.

Accessibility and Inclusivity

Video games have increasingly catered to a diverse range of players with various abilities, making them more inclusive. Features such as adjustable difficulty levels, subtitles, and controller customisation ensure that everyone can enjoy the game regardless of ability. This focus on accessibility is vital in UX/UI design, where the goal is to create products that are usable by as many people as possible.

For instance, some video games allow players to remap controls, change colour schemes, or adjust text sizes to fit their needs. Similarly, in digital design, accessibility features like screen reader compatibility, high-contrast modes, and adjustable text sizes can make a product more inclusive to users with disabilities or specific preferences.

Final Thoughts

Video games can teach us a lot about UX/UI. Through lessons on immersion, intuitive design, feedback, onboarding, and inclusivity, games offer valuable insights that translate well into digital product design. 

Note, however, that this post has only touched on a few areas where UX/UI and video game design overlap. For more in-depth insights or personalised guidance, seeking professional advice or continuing to explore more resources is always helpful.