✨ AstroCat Game

Developing the space 3d shooter exerperience for the IOS

Timeline

Jun 2023 - Present

Tools Used

Blender

Figma

Adobe Creative Suite

Photoshop

Disciplines

3D Modeling and Animation

UX/UI Design for Mobile and Web

Branding and Art Direction

Prototyping

Game Design and Development

UI/UX Research

🎮 Project Overview

AstroCat is an original mobile game I co-developed — a retro-inspired space runner with fast-paced shooter mechanics, arcade-style UI, and cute 3D Characters.

I led all visual design, including UI/UX, branding, in-game assets, character art, and store layout. The goal was to create an intuitive, fun experience that doesn’t require a tutorial, using motion, color, and clear visual language to guide gameplay.

📱 UI/UX Design

I designed every screen in the game — from the HUD and pause menu to the in-game store and character customizer. The flow needed to feel frictionless, so I focused on:

  • Minimal text with icon-based interactions

  • Color-coded power-ups and pickups

  • A custom pixel art interface that feels both nostalgic and modern

🧑‍🚀 Character & Asset Design

Design a user-friendly mobile interface for AstroCat—a free, engaging endless shooter with kawaii 3D visuals. The goal: intuitive gameplay, clear objectives, and strong player retention.

🧠 Design Goals

Design a user-friendly mobile interface for AstroCat—a free, engaging endless shooter with kawaii 3D visuals. The goal: intuitive gameplay, clear objectives, and strong player retention.

Key UX Goals:

Ease of learning

Mechanics that are quick to understand

Simplicity in controls

Especially for younger or casual players

Clear objectives

So every playthrough feels rewarding

Seamless user experience

Balanced visuals, feedback, and gameplay flow

Ease of learning

Mechanics that are quick to understand

Simplicity in controls

Especially for younger or casual players

Clear objectives

So every playthrough feels rewarding

Seamless user experience

Balanced visuals, feedback, and gameplay flow

Opportunity

AstroCat targets fans of endless runners and arcade-style shooters of all ages. With accessibility and visual appeal at the core, I developed characters and UI systems to support gameplay and retention. As we enter testing, feedback will guide refinements in both UI and game mechanics.

Research Process

I conducted desk research across mobile endless runners and arcade shooters. This helped identify what resonates with players and where AstroCat could stand out. The findings directly influenced both the interface and gameplay feel.

MoodBoard

Using player insights and competitor analysis, I created a playful, vibrant mood board with adventurous and space-themed elements. Bold typography and a bright color palette helped shape the brand identity.

Initial HUD designs explored features like weapon switching and coin-based interactions. Through testing, we learned these features disrupted the free-to-play experience, so we pivoted to a simpler, more intuitive design. Ads will remain, with a future option to remove them via a one-time purchase.

Refinements focused on local multiplayer readiness, intuitive HUD (movement on the right, jump/shoot on the left), and the addition of a skippable tutorial. These updates made the game feel more polished and accessible.

UI System

I designed a UI system that reflects AstroCat’s personality—playful, spacey, and user-friendly. Every element supports the game’s visual identity while keeping usability front and center.

🔮 What’s Next?

We’re finishing development for an iOS soft launch, with plans to scale marketing, add skins, and integrate rewarded ads. A merch drop is also in progress!

Final Notes and Future Improvements

AstroCat is launching this year! As we move into testing, feedback will help us fine-tune the controls, polish the UI, and ensure an engaging experience for all players. We’re excited to bring this endlessly fun, free-to-play game to a wide audience.

All content on this website, including images, game assets, logos, and designs, is the intellectual property of AstroCat and its creators. Unauthorized use, reproduction, or distribution is strictly prohibited.

All content on this website, including images, game assets, logos, and designs, is the intellectual property of AstroCat and its creators. Unauthorized use, reproduction, or distribution is strictly prohibited.

LETS CONNECT

Get in touch with me via email

sofiadesignhub@gmail.com

or linkedin

LETS CONNECT

Get in touch with me via email

sofiadesignhub@gmail.com

or linkedin

LETS CONNECT

Get in touch with me via email

sofiadesignhub@gmail.com

or linkedin

LETS CONNECT

Get in touch with me via email

sofiadesignhub@gmail.com

or linkedin