Hangman - The Gallows Game
The "The Hangman: The Gallows Game" app is my original project developed for GOOD APPS Michał Gudalewicz. As a UX/UI Designer, I created mockups for the game after extensive competitive analysis. Challenges included implementing automatic translation into multiple languages, including Cyrillic, and maintaining a consistent eerie atmosphere throughout the app.
Research and Analysis:
I analyzed similar apps by installing 12 and evaluating gameplay, categories, options, and user feedback. Key findings:
- Most hangman games have similar mechanics.
- Paid games usually offer a free version with optional paid word packs.
- Intrusive ads reduce usability and negatively impact user experience.
Defining the problem
Initially, I planned to create a few mock-ups, but as I explored functionalities and user paths, I realized more were needed. I ended up producing over a hundred mock-ups, covering various languages, colors, and navigation paths.
Projects
The grotesque element aimed to enhance the app's distinctiveness without compromising usability. Inspired by turpism, I used an unconventional color palette and fitting icon. The app offers two color variations—vibrant or black—to suit different preferences and needs, including those with color allergies.
Integrating automatic translation was challenging due to diverse keyboards, varying word lengths, and password constraints. This required prioritizing target markets and evaluating technical database capabilities.
Hangman The Gallows Game.mp4The mockups and prototypes, along with detailed descriptions of functionalities, have been handed over to the developer. Now, I must patiently await the implementation and release of my project.
What I learned...
Theory is one thing, but practice is another...
The design process is shaped by funding, company goals, and time constraints. Unlike theoretical ideals, the actual project will be influenced by many uncontrollable factors.
If you don't have what you love, then you start loving what you have...
Creating personas is vital but challenging with limited resources. In such cases, user feedback from similar products can help identify pain points and build basic personas.
Planning...
Analyzing untestable data is challenging. The app’s goal was to detect and adapt to the device’s language, presenting planning and decision-making obstacles. Effective advocacy, informed choices, and cost-awareness were crucial in my role.
What is creativity...
Integrating grotesque elements into a hangman game was complex. The goal was to create aesthetic shock while balancing boundaries, ethics, and project limitations, which proved to be the biggest challenge.