Subtle controls that enhance the fun of the game: The game world created by UI/UX.

<!--img--> 

Games are enjoyable when they evoke a sense of immersion, a feeling that "this is what gaming truly is." This sensation arises when simple controls are seamlessly integrated with insightful design. For example, the moment a character leaps over an obstacle with a single button press, or when manipulating elements on screen and experiencing the depth of the visuals. These experiences are often referred to as "game feel," but they contain crucial elements that we often overlook: UI (user interface) and UX (user experience). These two elements not only define the game's appearance but also determine how players perceive and interact with the game world.

While 30% of a game's enjoyment might come from "content," "story," and "player skill," the remaining 70% stems from *how* those elements are experienced. This article will explore how games use UI and UX to enhance "fun" and provide methods for players to enjoy games more deeply.

---

1. UI: Silently conveying information, a guide that leads the player's eyes and hands

We visually process vast amounts of information in games: health status, skill mana, coin count, mission text, and more. All this information is delivered through the "UI." However, simply displaying elements on the screen isn't enough. A good UI should ensure that players don't have to spend time deciphering information.

Consider the indie game "Hollow Knight" as a prime example. It uses subtle colors and shading to seamlessly integrate the UI. The health bar is naturally positioned next to the character, and the mana indicator is at the top of the screen, but it's easily visible without requiring players to shift their focus. This is a great example of "visual functionality." Players don't miss the game world while looking at the UI; instead, they become more immersed.

The UI in games also plays a role in regulating emotions. For example, in "Death Stranding," the screen edges turn red as a character's health decreases during combat, visually conveying danger and creating a sense of urgency. The UI is not just about displaying information; it's a tool for managing emotions.

• The UI exists to convey information, but it does more than that.
• A good UI seamlessly delivers information without distracting the player's focus.
• Visual feedback is crucial for enhancing emotions and immersion.

---

2. UX: The moment interaction feels right, that's when we "feel" the game

The UI displays information, while UX is about *how* that information makes us react. For example, in some games, a character might take 0.5 seconds to respond after a button is pressed. This "delay" is subtle, but it irritates players. It makes them question whether their input was even registered.

Most enjoyable games have extremely low input lag (the delay between pressing a button and the game responding). In other words, when you press a button, the game reacts immediately. This is also known as "feedback," and it allows players to instantly recognize that their actions have an effect. This responsiveness is more than just "speed"; it's about creating a sense of control and agency.

In games like "Fortnite" or "Mario Kart," the delay between input and response is almost non-existent, allowing players to feel like they are directly controlling the action on screen. This is a form of "game immersion."

UX also considers the player's mindset and situation. For example, in "Hitman," the game prevents players from interacting with elements that are impossible to manipulate. If a player tries to do something that's not possible, the game simply ignores the input. This reinforces the "meaning of interaction" and makes players trust the game's logic.

• UX provides "visual and emotional rewards" to players through the connection between input and response.
• A good UX makes players feel like "their actions have an effect."
• The "feel" of a game starts with input responsiveness.

---

3. How to enjoy games more deeply: Distinguish what you see and what you feel

When we enjoy a game, the word "fun" often refers to "winning" or having a "great story." However, what's more important is whether you "felt the game world." For example, in "Reversely," the ability to rewind actions with a single button click creates a feeling that you're "making decisions." This is more than just saying it's "fun"; it's about experiencing the game on a deeper level.

So, how can we better experience this "feeling"? First, observe the responsiveness of your inputs and the visual feedback from the UI. Pay attention to whether a character takes 0.3 seconds to move after you press a button, or if the screen shakes slightly when you're facing falling enemies. This provides players with a sense of control and agency.

Second, familiarize yourself with the placement of information in the game. Some games place skill icons next to the character, while others put them in the top right corner. This reduces the need for players to think about "where to look" when they want to interact with something. A good UX helps players find information without confusion.

Finally, pay attention to design choices that make the UI "disappear." For example, in "The Last of Us," the minimal UI creates a sense of being fully immersed in the game world. This is a strategy to maximize "visual immersion."

• We enjoy games not just by "clearing levels," but by "feeling the experience."
• Input responsiveness, visual feedback, and information placement all influence how we "feel" the game.
• To enjoy games more deeply, think about "how you feel" rather than just "what's happening."

---

Ultimately, a great game is more about "feeling" than just being "fun." UI and UX are the pillars that shape this feeling. The moment we feel like "we exist within the game world," that's when we truly experience the joy of gaming.

<!--enr--> ## Quick Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1. How do UI and UX affect a game's fun factor? UI effectively conveys information visually, helping players immerse themselves in the game world. UX strengthens the connection between player actions and their outcomes, making players feel that their inputs truly matter. Together, these elements are key to shaping a game’s overall "feel."

Q2. Can you give a concrete example of good UI in games? For instance, in *Hollow Knight*, health and mana indicators are naturally positioned around the character, minimizing visual disruption while allowing instant access to vital information. This exemplifies strong UI that enhances both visual functionality and immersion.

Q3. How does UX impact control responsiveness? High control responsiveness makes players feel that their inputs are immediately reflected in the character’s actions. For example, in *PUBG*, where there's almost no delay between input and response, players strongly perceive themselves as directly controlling the game.

Q4. How should you observe UI and UX to enjoy games more deeply? Pay close attention to reaction time after input, visual feedback like screen shake, and the placement of information icons. Notably, when UI seamlessly integrates into the game world without breaking immersion, you’ll better recognize how it enhances your overall experience.