We designed a card game + app to engage with heavier topics in a fun and safe space. How spicy are your opinions?
Conversation is the best way to build relationships, but we often find ourselves never able to touch on the more difficult topics. This is especially true in the immediate aftermath of the pandemic.
So, we designed a card game + app to engage with heavier topics in a fun and safe space.
In order to create a game to facilitate meaningful discussion and connection, we needed to specify:
(This is a research technique called a needs analysis.)
So afterwards, we asked ourselves, how CAN games invite opportunities for connection & discussion, to create an easier & more welcoming social experience?
(This is our researching methodology.)
We then interviewed users to gather self-reported data about the experience, and guided users through a test use of the gameplay while observing and asking questions. Multiple surveys were then conducted to determine which topics and game styles would be preferable:
(This is our categorized user data.)
We were informed by our surveys that the optimal pathway to designing and branding the game was to create a card game based on open ended questions with a “spicy” thematic twist.
The same theme was applied to the design of the cards & app, as well as the actual logo.
We found that users needed to have access to essential information and rules, that could be accessed by each player individually for the best gameplay, and to avoid interrupting the focus on conversation.
The app interface & architecture is meant to be a companion to the game that eases use, speeds up rule comprehension for large parties, and acts as a gateway to learning more about each topic from partnered outside sources.
Hot Takes is a really fun example of how design can be applied for a specific, research-based goal to great effect. Playing the game ourselves and actually having good conversations was very memorable, and caused this product to leave a lasting impression.
