A mobile app that connects casual gamers with local and online game nights.
Overview
As part of my User Experience & Interface Design II course, I created Game Night Social, a mobile app that empowers gamers to discover, organize, and join real-world and online game nights. Inspired by my own experiences as a gamer and community builder, I designed the app to foster inclusive, low-pressure opportunities to connect through play, especially for casual players and underrepresented groups in gaming spaces.
The Challenge
Gamers often struggle to find in-person or casual gaming events, especially when platforms prioritize competitive online play. Few tools exist to help casual players or underrepresented groups discover safe, social-first gaming spaces. I set out to create an interface that is friendly, intuitive, and welcoming.
The Process
Discovery and Research
I started with observations drawn from my friends' and my experiences organizing and finding game nights. I identified key needs:
• An easy way to browse nearby or virtual events.
• Profile customization to signal interests and availability.
• A safe, social-first environment for all that doesn't prioritize rankings or competition.
• Profile customization to signal interests and availability.
• A safe, social-first environment for all that doesn't prioritize rankings or competition.
Industry Context
To better understand the opportunity, I conducted research on the social gaming industry. Trends confirmed the importance of community:
🎮 82% of gamers believe games help introduce them to new friends.
🌍 As of 2024, there are 3.3 billion active gamers worldwide.
👥 3 out of 4 people under 35 play multiplayer games.
❤️ 76% of gamers say gaming reduces stress and improves mental health.
(See infographic below)
User Personas & Branding
I created two primary personas:
•Rayven (Casual Gamer) – wants a fun, low-pressure way to join community events and meet people. Frustrated by competitive platforms.
I developed a brand identity centered around warmth, pixel-style graphics, and community energy. Bright colors and bold headers mirrored gaming culture while remaining clean and inviting.
Wireframes & Iteration
I sketched low-fi screens, built mid-fi flows, and iterated based on feedback. Iterations focused on clarity of navigation, event categorization, and RSVP flow.
Low-Fidelity Wireframes
Mid-Fidelity Wireframes
Final Designs
High-Fidelity Wireframes
Loading Screens
Final Prototype
Final Presentation
Outcome
• Delivered a polished Figma prototype demonstrating inclusive gaming UX
• Integrated branding, UI design, and UX writing into one cohesive experience
• Received positive peer feedback on layout consistency, use of iconography, and friendly tone
• Integrated branding, UI design, and UX writing into one cohesive experience
• Received positive peer feedback on layout consistency, use of iconography, and friendly tone
Reflection
This project taught me how UX design can build a real-world community. I learned the importance of inclusive design choices and branding systems that can create community. In future iterations, I would conduct usability testing with a broader audience of the application based on feedback.
