Life is Strange - Episode Selection Redesign
overview
Life is Strange Remastered stars Max Caulfield, a photography who discovers she can rewind time while saving her best friend Chloe Price from a violent altercation. I took on the challenge of redesigning the episode selection menu because I was determined to find a solution that connects the player more closely with not only the characters, but evoke more emotions through the UI before they are taken into the narrative adventure.
final product
analyzing in game design
The original design of this screen showcases episodes in a horizonal tile, by enlarging the photo showcased on the tile to be part of the main background. A scribbled up arrow is presented towards the right of the last tile to indicate there are more tiles to view.
design process
While concepting out a redesign of this screen, I didn’t want to create an entirely new theme. Instead, I wanted to reconstruct the way the player cycles through each episode, by introeucing a special touch to it...
Goals:
- Showcase only one episode tile at a time to create curiosity and retain focus on element.
- Emcompass each episode to reflect a polaorid of episode preview.
.png)
episode tile stylization
For the episode cards, I made sure to include the following elements to give it more character:
- Film grain
- Paper texture
- Lens Flare
- Sharpie marking for episode and title
While keeping these elements in mind, visually it made a huge difference. I want the player to feel connected to them and excited to explore what more this photo has to offer. I want the player scrolling through these photos asking themselves the following questions;
What secrets are behind it? How does it begin? Where does it end? What moment in the story was this taken place?
visual design
When I am designing menu systems, I like to boosts it’s personality through the UI. Stylization is important, but I wanted to ensure I was evoking feelings into my design. To create a a more personal connection to Max, I went ahead and included Max’s room in the background which showcases her wall of photos. As you cycle through each episode card, it’s almost like the player is in Max’s room going through her polaroid captures.
reflection
Evoking curiosity and excited for what comes next was my ultimate goal when redesigning this menu. Menu systems can do more than just provide information. They can express personality and help the player become more connected to the world you’re trying to build. As a designer, it’s important to me that I am creating an immersive world not just through gameplay, but through every aspect of the game.
Through every step into my design process, I ensure I am ALWAYS keeping the player in mind and asking myself questions on how they might process the visuals and information presented to them.
