One of Fantasy Flight's most popular games from the latter franchise is Star Wars: X-Wing, a tabletop miniature game that allows players to recreate the epic star-fighter battles from the films.
While the gameplay itself uses physical pieces, Fantasy Flight sought to create an accompanying app to enhance gameplay. The app gives players access to tools like a squad builder, game modes, and card databases to make the overall experience better. Fantasy Flight worked with a different offshore company to build the first version of the app but wasn't quite satisfied with the results. When it came time for the second edition, we redesigned and rebuilt the entire experience from the ground up.
Design Lead & Direction
Discovery & Ideation, Design Research, UX/UI Design, Animation & Motion, Design System
2020
We began the design process by thoroughly researching the app's current state and pain points with stakeholders and users. Immersing ourselves in gameplay, we understood players' needs and challenges on a personal level. Additionally, we conducted competitor research to create a framework based on player expectations for the app.
With our research complete, we mapped the app's features, with a major focus on squad building. Collaborating with the client, we brainstormed various approaches and refined them into one cohesive design concept.
In X-Wing, every spaceship, pilot, and ship upgrade possesses a specific points value. Typically, gameplay revolves around a total of 200 points, offering a multitude of options and combinations. To streamline squad building, we incorporated a robust search filter during squad creation, allowing users to effortlessly discover cards that align with their remaining point value.
The project outcome was a resounding success as we addressed user feedback and added new features. The launch of the revamped X-Wing companion app in fall 2020 exceeded expectations, delivering a highly usable and tailored experience. Users' desires for functionality and ease of use were met, leading to an overwhelmingly positive response and elevated app store ratings. The app's transformation has solidified its position as a favored and user-friendly tool for the X-Wing gaming community.
