Enhancing the Fortnite Experience
The concept of a second screen has become increasingly sophisticated since the introduction of smartphones. Companion apps are the natural evolution of this growing second-screen trend. These apps were specifically designed to allow users to interact with a related third-party product, so it was only a matter of time before the booming gaming industry embraced the field.
Companion apps are used by major titles like Call of Duty, The Division, EA Sports FIFA, and many others. They engage players in amazing ways even when they aren’t sitting in front of their consoles or PCs. But what if we developed companion apps as progressive web apps instead of native Android and iOS apps?
Research Methods
To gather information about players and their needs, I performed a competitive analysis by benchmarking against other popular companion apps in the gaming industry. I also used the style guide of Fortnite to ensure consistency with the game’s existing aesthetic. Additionally, I conducted a survey to gather insights on player preferences and potential competitors in the market.
Insights Gained
Through my research, I discovered that Progressive Web Application (PWA) is a new software development model that turns browsers (web pages) into true app platforms, and PWAs are nothing more than normal web pages or websites in their technical format, but appearing to the user as traditional or mobile (native) applications, combining the features of modern browsers with the advantages of the mobile experience, such as the ability to work offline, access camera, microphone, etc. I also discovered that Progressive Companion Apps can keep revenue share, build once, run everywhere, and have no need for downloads.
Sketch, Wireframes, and Prototypes
I created wireframes and prototypes to visualize and test the usability of the Progressive Companion App. My design was based on the research and insights gathered during the research phase. I chose a Progressive Web App approach based on the research I did during the research phase, it allowed me to keep the revenue share, build once and run everywhere, and no need for downloads. I also incorporated features such as a real-time map, the ability to customize characters, and access to the game store to enhance the player’s experience.
User Testing
I conducted user testing to evaluate the usability and effectiveness of the Progressive Companion App. I gathered feedback from participants and made adjustments to the design based on their input. The user testing revealed that the Progressive Companion App was easy to use and provided a seamless experience for players. The participants also appreciated the ability to customize their characters and access the game store through the app.
Takeaways
Progressive Web Applications (PWAs) can be a great alternative to traditional native apps when developing companion apps for games as they offer several advantages such as the ability to keep revenue share, build once and run everywhere, and no need for downloads.
Conducting user testing and incorporating feedback is crucial in order to improve the user experience and ensure the app meets the needs and preferences of the target audience.
Incorporating features such as a real-time map, the ability to customize characters, and access to the game store can enhance the player’s experience and increase engagement.
Benchmarking against other popular companion apps in the gaming industry and using the style guide of the game can help ensure consistency and credibility with the existing game aesthetic and audience.
Learnings and Future
Through this project, I explored the advantages of creating a companion app as a progressive web application over native Android and iOS apps. I discovered that Progressive Web Applications (PWAs) can be a great alternative to traditional native apps when developing companion apps for games. PWAs offer several advantages such as the ability to keep revenue share, build once and run everywhere, and no need for downloads. Additionally, I learned the importance of conducting user testing and incorporating feedback to improve the user experience.
The experience of this project has influenced my approach to design in the future by highlighting the benefits of using Progressive Web Applications (PWAs) as an alternative to traditional native apps. It has reinforced the importance of considering the business objectives and user needs in the design process. Additionally, the experience of conducting user testing and incorporating feedback has emphasized the importance of testing and evaluating designs in order to improve the user experience.
