User Research

Additional research attained while conducting the study.

Concept Sketches

Persona

Moodboard

A recognizable common set of assets were collected for the study. Based on the user persona the desire was to keep the project within the boundaries of the current branding with the exception of reworking elements that the user specifically wanted updated.

Journey Map

While testing the current Nintendo Online Game Menu:

Persona 1 underwent the process of returning home, powering on the game, preparing it, signing in, and completing the entire sequence within a specified time limit.

  • The overall design was deemed in need of improvement, appearing stacked and confusing, lacking a unified rhythm.

  • The details feature was identified as requiring removal or significant reworking. Possibly more static images or video.

  • To enhance user navigation, categories, commonly employed in various competing menu systems, were deemed necessary additions.

  • Certain buttons, including the option to exit to the selection screen, were found to be missing from the interface, highlighting the need for their accessibility.

External Link to Journey Map Here

USER FLOW

Navigate to the online service.  This involves navigating through the system's interface to reach the platform's online features.
Choose the user profile. Within the online service, users are prompted to select their individual profiles. This personalizes the experience and ensures that interactions are tailored to the specific user.
Console and Software Selection:
Start the software, leading to the NES page. Within the Nintendo section, users initiate the software. This action propels them to the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) page, providing a gateway to gaming options.
Navigate through game selections. Users then engage in exploring the available game selections. 
Choose a game. Among the diverse array of game selections, users make their choices. This step involves deciding on a specific game to engage with, laying the foundation for the subsequent gaming experience.
Details Exploration for Selected Game:
Explore details for the chosen game. Once a game is chosen, users delve into exploring the details associated with their selection. This includes information about the game, potentially spanning multiple pages to provide a comprehensive overview.
Menu Navigation and Game Selection:
Navigate through the menu by categories. As users continue their journey, they navigate through the menu, likely organized by categories. This step adds structure to the selection process, making it more manageable.
Select a game, users finalize their choice and experience the immediate startup of the selected game.

Wireframe Prototype

I wanted to make sure I was aware of current trends in menu selection. I examined the menu/selection screens of key competitors, including Xbox, PlayStation, and Steam. Given Netflix's proficiency in digital menu screens, I found it worthwhile to study their menu solution as well. 
Noteworthy to these; are well-organized features, personal selections, callbacks to previous states, and effective calls to action. Updated UI modernized all of these platforms. 
Although I do appreciate Steam as a service I enjoy using, its store menu UI stood out as lacking clarity and conciseness, particularly in balancing negative space with content. I do like the hover preview when selecting games but I feel that a gamer may have trouble faced with overwhelming calls to action and actually knowing what to choose.
Both Xbox One and PlayStation offer evolving UIs with a focus on gaming experiences, social features, and media capabilities.
Steam is more centered around PC gaming, providing a comprehensive platform for purchasing, managing, and playing games.
Netflix is primarily a streaming service, and its UI revolves around content discovery, personalization, and ease of use.

Guidance and Accessibility:

  • The interviewer guided participants when necessary, emphasizing the system's ease of navigation.
  • Participants felt that the new prototype was more accessible to everyone.
  • Time Efficiency:
    • Participants under time constraints reported that the organization of the new prototype allowed for quicker selection and decision-making.
An audio clip from the study

Usability Testing

Summary of Nintendo Online Usability Test:

  • Objective: The usability study aimed to evaluate a prototype of the Nintendo Online UI system.

  • Facilitator's Role: The test facilitator conducted sessions at a local university cafe in multiple reserved rooms.
  • Participants: Six participants took part in the study.

Feedback Highlights:

  • Participants found the new prototype to be better organized.
  • Positive responses were received for the retro art display and the prominent display of titles.
  • "My List" feature was identified as important by participants.
  • Returning to where participants left off was considered crucial.
  • Some participants were not aware of hidden button features (left and right trigger button options).
  • Participants enjoyed details on the "My List" screen, which provided a nostalgic preview and the ability to save games.
  • Categories were well-received by participants.

Overall Feedback:

  • All participants reported that the prototype was easy to use, and they expressed satisfaction with the system.
  • The study included individuals who initially had difficulty using the system, but the interviewer provided guidance to showcase touch-sensitive features.

Testing Methods:

  • A/B testing was employed to compare the current UI with the revised UI prototype.
  • Participants were asked about their familiarity with the existing system.

Concerns:

  • Participants expressed concerns about the utilization of plus and minus buttons and the need for clear pause and select states.

Overall Impressions:

  • Participants perceived the new prototype as more accessible, well-designed, and detailed, making the purchase price more agreeable.