Introduction
Juicy Merge is a mobile game that involves merging identical fruits to create new ones, enhancing user engagement through progression mechanics. This case study explores the redesign of its main screen to improve usability, aesthetics, and user experience, while also including wireframes for the gameplay screen.
Problems Identified
Inefficient Use of Space: The original main screen lacked a structured layout, making navigation less intuitive.
Lack of Visual Hierarchy: Important elements like currency, upcoming fruits, and player stats were not clearly emphasized.
Limited Player Guidance: Players had difficulty understanding the merging process and future fruit combinations.
Minimal Engagement Features: The UI did not encourage progression or strategic play effectively.
Inconsistent Design Elements: Mismatched colors and font choices led to a cluttered appearance.
Key Changes in the Redesign
Optimized Layout: The main screen was restructured to ensure a balanced and visually appealing arrangement of key elements.
Enhanced Visual Hierarchy: Key information, such as upcoming fruits and player resources, is now clearly highlighted.
Cheat Sheet Addition: A progression guide was added to the bottom to help players understand fruit evolution more easily.
Refined UI Components: Colors, fonts, and button styles were standardized for a more cohesive look.
Better Navigation: Important actions are more accessible, improving user flow and engagement.
Gameplay Wireframes
While the main focus was on the main screen, wireframes for the gameplay screen were also designed to ensure consistency and enhance the overall player experience.
Conclusion
The redesigned main screen offers a more structured, visually appealing, and user-friendly experience. By improving layout, navigation, and engagement features, Juicy Merge now provides a more enjoyable and intuitive gameplay journey. This case study highlights the importance of thoughtful UI/UX design in enhancing player retention and satisfaction.