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Cafe Noir
An Augmented Reality mystery experience that seamlessly integrates the University interchange to boosts students' sense of community
CLIENT
UNIVERSITY OF NOTTINGHAM
ROLE
SOLE DESIGNER
RESPONSIBILITIES
XR GAME DESIGN, CONCEPT DEVELOPMENT, PROTOTYPE
PROJECT DURATION
INTRO
Social engagement is low in the University Hub
Cafe Noir groups students together, and challenges them to work as a team to unravel an AR mystery. Teams will use AR visual markers, digital cards, and interactive audio to encourage spatial exploration in the Hub, breaking the ice between strangers and igniting friendships.
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CUSTOMER REFERRALS
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INCREASED ENGAGEMENT
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OVERALL SATISFACTION
RESEARCH
The architectural layout & traffic circulation are the foundation of the game narrative
Research involved analysing the Exchange Building's layout, functions, and user flow to identify circulation and high activity zones. Using Mixed Reality Ideation Cards, game concepts were crafted around room divisions, functions, and existing props, to encourage physical interaction within the space.
DESIGN
Interactive design system were designed around the grand piano
Site analysis informed core gameplay concepts and storyboards, defining the mystery and user journey. A consistent design system featured character profiles, a navigation map, hidden clues, and visual markers. Prototyping with Meta Spark AR added immersive features like interactive UI elements, audio cues, and social media integration to expand engagement beyond the game.
SOLUTION
Using social media integration for further digital outreach
Spark AR allows users to share experiences on Instagram and Facebook, promoting the university's brand. This fosters a digital community, encouraging student engagement both on campus and online, aligning with the goal of enhancing campus life and increasing student engagement.
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EVALUATION
Richer storyline and clues can enhance ongoing game adaptations
Usability testing with participants were conducted via think-aloud protocols and post-game surveys. Key insights revealed likability towards interactive audio and visuals but suggested deepening game narrative, improvements in clue placements, and opportunities for dynamic voice acting to enhance the mystery immersion further, playing into the detective role.
REFLECTION
AR design principles & combining physical-digital spaces
Reflecting on the HCI challenges of marker recognition, placement, and user interface alignment, I identified areas for improvement in the experience by expanding future iterations that incorporate 3D visuals, richer narratives, and immersive features like timed markers and expanded environments for exploration in the game. This project deepened my understanding of AR design, blending storytelling, technology, and user-centred principles to create immersive experiences.