Enhancing User Experience with Pathfinder 2E Item Cards
Greetings everyone, it's time for another progress update! In this post, we'll be diving into the realm of user experience. Our focus will be on the creative pipeline responsible for crafting designs for each card category, as well as presenting the evolution from the initial version to the splendid final rendition. Let's delve right in!
Pathfinder 2e Item Cards Version 1.0
Surprisingly, this project has been in the works for quite some time, since April 2022 to be exact. Initially, it was intended for D&D 5e. However, due to some OGL (Open Gaming License) complications, we decided to take a break. After careful consideration, we made the decision to launch the project for Pathfinder 2E instead. Rest assured, we haven't forgotten about our D&D 5e fans, as we still plan to offer an alternative for them, albeit a bit later in the development process.
Without any more delay, let's dive right into the initial design for the magical item category.
Upon evaluating the initial design for the magical item category, I found several areas that required improvement. Let's break down the initial problems that surfaced:
Rarity Symbol: The placement of the rarity symbol at the top left corner did not blend well with the overall design, disrupting the flow. This mismatch became more evident when adapting the design to other card types, such as the potions item card.
Font Choice: While the selected font was legible, it didn't optimise the use of design space. A more appropriate font could have been chosen to enhance the overall aesthetic appeal.
Iconography: The initial concept of using icons to represent item effects was intriguing, but it posed the risk of misinterpretation. For instance, in the example given, a lightning bolt was used to denote the number of item charges, which could easily be mistaken for thunder damage.
Consistent Design: Achieving design consistency across all magical items proved to be challenging. Some items had charges, some required attunement, while others had damage dice. This inconsistency made it difficult for users to quickly grasp the relevant information, regardless of the item type.
Pathfinder 2e Item Cards Version 2.0
Since then, I've embarked on a comprehensive reconstruction of the entire design, starting practically from scratch for most elements. One of the key aspects I've diligently incorporated into this process is actively seeking valuable input from the community. By consulting the community, I've gained crucial insights into the essential information that should be displayed on each card. This iterative approach, fueled by community collaboration, has allowed me to refine the design significantly.
As evident, each card category has undergone a remarkable transformation, with notable enhancements made to the potion and scroll cards, which underwent near-complete reworks. Some of the major changes introduced are as follows:
Rarity: The card rarity element has been relocated from the top and now finds its place just above the card title, ensuring a cohesive design across all categories. Additionally, the rarity gem has been replaced with a cleaner, more elegant design, harmoniously carried throughout all category designs.
Font: A significant improvement has been made in font selection, moving away from thin and intricate fonts to a more substantial, easier-to-read typeface. This change ensures enhanced readability and a more pleasant visual experience.
Item Information: The presentation of item effects and details has been entirely revamped. The previous use of iconography in the bottom left and right corners has been removed. Instead, a streamlined approach has been devised to showcase information concisely and clearly. Unnecessary fluff has been eliminated, and the focus has been placed on presenting how the items function, prioritizing clarity and usability.
Cardbacks: A unified cardback design has been implemented, doing away with overly edited and saturated cardbacks. The new approach embraces consistency, with the gem rarity taking center stage, ensuring a cohesive and aesthetically pleasing look.
These significant changes have elevated the overall design, ensuring a more harmonious and user-friendly experience across all card categories. The attention to detail and community-oriented approach have undoubtedly led to a product that is both visually appealing and highly functional.
The designs are now more cohesive and user-friendly, creating a seamless experience for all users. With the information presented in a clear and concise manner, the overall user experience has undoubtedly been enhanced significantly.
Moving forward, the next exciting phase involves generating cards for each category and creating print-friendly versions. The plan to prototype the decks is a crucial step in bringing the project to life and allowing players to experience the magic firsthand.
Thank you for joining us on this journey, adventurers! Until our next update, may your quests be filled with excitement and success. Happy gaming!
