Pikmin 4
2023
overview
At Nintendo, my role as a French game design tester centered on conducting usability tests for Pikmin and several unreleased titles, a task that involved scrutinizing game mechanics, interface design, and overall user engagement from the perspective of French-speaking players.
Role
French Game Design Tester
Duration
2023/01 – 2023/06
Goals & Challenges
My goal was to refine the game's interface and mechanics for French-speaking audiences by effectively integrating their specific feedback. This involved detailed analysis of user responses during play sessions, focusing on aspects like linguistic accuracy, cultural nuances, and overall user engagement.
I faced challenges including managing complex game mechanics, ensuring cross-platform compatibility, achieving accurate language localization, and meeting tight release deadlines.
Player-Centered vs User-Centered
In contrasting Player-Centered Design (PCD) with User-Centered Design (UCD), my role as a game design tester for Pikmin 4 highlighted the distinct focus of PCD. While conducting tests, I noted how players were more engaged when Pikmin types displayed unique, clearly distinguishable behaviors in response to commands. I recommended enhancing these visual cues to deepen emotional engagement, aligning with PCD's emphasis on creating immersive, emotionally resonant experiences. This approach differs from UCD, which prioritizes broader functionality and efficiency, demonstrating how tailored, player-specific enhancements can elevate the gaming experience.
Inclusivity in Game
For enhancing game accessibility and inclusivity, I advocated for key adjustments, including increasing the brightness of Glow Pikmin to improve nighttime visibility for players with low vision and introducing customizable controls and sound settings to accommodate various physical and hearing abilities. To address color blindness, I recommended grayscale testing, ensuring gameplay differentiation does not rely solely on color. I also prioritized comprehensive subtitle support to enhance accessibility and engagement for all players.
Testing Methodologies
During the game design testing phase for Pikmin 4, my team and I utilized a structured testing matrix to systematically evaluate and prioritize gameplay elements from core mechanics to minor interactions.
We conducted scripted tests alongside spontaneous sessions to identify potential issues, such as the effectiveness of visibility adjustments for Pikmin in different lighting conditions. Using version control systems, we efficiently managed changes, pinpointing regressions and ensuring any updates enhanced the player experience. This blend of manual and automated testing, ensured that every adjustment was aligned with the game's strategic goals and aesthetic vision.
Strategies for Challenges
To tackle the challenges during the Pikmin 4 testing phase, my team and I implemented several targeted strategies:
For resolving complex mechanics,
we utilized iterative testing cycles to systematically address and refine each component, breaking down the game’s complex mechanics into manageable segments.
For identifying hidden issues,
we conducted exploratory testing sessions, which were crucial for creatively solving problems and testing how the game mechanics held up under unconventional scenarios.
For cross-platform tracking and prioritizing bugs,
we employed specialized testing suites and robust issue tracking systems, ensuring quick identification and resolution while maintaining clear communication and effective project management.
For accurate language localization,
I collaborated closely with localization teams, using their regular feedback to ensure the game's content was linguistically accurate and culturally resonant.
For efficient task management under tight deadlines,
we adopted agile project management techniques, keeping our team flexible and responsive to rapidly emerging challenges.
Empower player control with features like rewind functions in Pikmin 4 to enhance gameplay flexibility.
Optimize visibility and accessibility to reduce cognitive load during intense gameplay by keeping essential details easily visible.
Deepen engagement with signals and feedback to enrich the experience and strengthen emotional connections to the game.
Ensure comfort through ergonomics by designing user-friendly controls that prevent physical discomfort, making games more enjoyable for longer sessions.
Takeaways on Game UX
Learning
I've loved and feel fortunate to have worked at Nintendo, surrounded by an incredibly energetic and engaging team!!!
This experience has enriched me with valuable skills, such as collaborating across multinational and cross-functional teams, and deepening my appreciation for diverse cultures, particularly French. My involvement in usability testing sharpened my attention to detail, meticulousness, and logical reasoning. I also learned to apply intuitive and inclusive design principles that engage players effectively, equipping me to handle pressure and solve problems efficiently.
