Elite Dangerous Launch Screen
1) First Impression:
This is the first thing any new player sees when trying to play the game. It had better work! And I mean "work" based on the perception of a new player. It should function smooth and friendly with no confusion to the player. First impressions are very important.
2) Primary Function:
Place more priority on primary function:
Primary Function: Launching game install and later updates, launching the game. (currently poor)
Secondary Function: Links (menu) to user account, services, store, forums, etc. (excellent)
Auxiliary function: Advertisements, pictures, etc. (its okay but scattered looking. I really don't care)
3) Upgrade Button:
This is not an Upgrade button. It is an UPDATE button. If it can be determined it is a first-time install make it an INSTALL button.
Upgrade implies something else. Like when you upgrade from a basic version of software to the expensive fancy version. Confusing because usually an upgrade requires $$$. Software patches and updates are UPDATES.
The first time I saw this I was very confused. I had purchased Horizons what other upgrade is there? What If I don't want to pay for another upgrade... where is my damned PLAY button!!!
Rename this button. Place an indicator near or on the button clearly indicating the game needs updates prior to launching. This should be easy, remove any possible confusion.
4) Upgrade Button:
Pressing the Upgrade button appears to do nothing for a very long time. I Assume its not doing anything or software crashed. Even more confusion for the new player.
Sometimes pressing the PLAY button takes 6-8 seconds before anything happens. My internet connection isn't that bad.
Software standard: When you press a button give the user feedback. Even if its just basic acknowledgement you pressed the button. If background stuff needs to happen prior to the progress bar or splash screen appearing that's fine. Just let the user know something is happening.
5) Beta Test the Update Process:
Test the install/update process EVERY TIME using offsite computers. (yes I know what Beta test means. I am trying to stress the point). Use low/medium end computers from standard box stores using average internet connection. Make sure the process works flawlessly prior to release.
I don't care what awesome new features you put in the game if I can't play it. And I don't enjoy messing around reinstalling, googling why it doesn't work, downloading dll's etc. Make the install process work, it is important!!!
Final Word:
I play games to have fun and release daily stress. I don't want to come home and play computer IT guy. I dread seeing that blue box that says "Upgrade".
1) First Impression:
This is the first thing any new player sees when trying to play the game. It had better work! And I mean "work" based on the perception of a new player. It should function smooth and friendly with no confusion to the player. First impressions are very important.
2) Primary Function:
Place more priority on primary function:
Primary Function: Launching game install and later updates, launching the game. (currently poor)
Secondary Function: Links (menu) to user account, services, store, forums, etc. (excellent)
Auxiliary function: Advertisements, pictures, etc. (its okay but scattered looking. I really don't care)
3) Upgrade Button:
This is not an Upgrade button. It is an UPDATE button. If it can be determined it is a first-time install make it an INSTALL button.
Upgrade implies something else. Like when you upgrade from a basic version of software to the expensive fancy version. Confusing because usually an upgrade requires $$$. Software patches and updates are UPDATES.
The first time I saw this I was very confused. I had purchased Horizons what other upgrade is there? What If I don't want to pay for another upgrade... where is my damned PLAY button!!!
Rename this button. Place an indicator near or on the button clearly indicating the game needs updates prior to launching. This should be easy, remove any possible confusion.
4) Upgrade Button:
Pressing the Upgrade button appears to do nothing for a very long time. I Assume its not doing anything or software crashed. Even more confusion for the new player.
Sometimes pressing the PLAY button takes 6-8 seconds before anything happens. My internet connection isn't that bad.
Software standard: When you press a button give the user feedback. Even if its just basic acknowledgement you pressed the button. If background stuff needs to happen prior to the progress bar or splash screen appearing that's fine. Just let the user know something is happening.
5) Beta Test the Update Process:
Test the install/update process EVERY TIME using offsite computers. (yes I know what Beta test means. I am trying to stress the point). Use low/medium end computers from standard box stores using average internet connection. Make sure the process works flawlessly prior to release.
I don't care what awesome new features you put in the game if I can't play it. And I don't enjoy messing around reinstalling, googling why it doesn't work, downloading dll's etc. Make the install process work, it is important!!!
Final Word:
I play games to have fun and release daily stress. I don't want to come home and play computer IT guy. I dread seeing that blue box that says "Upgrade".
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