Sunny
Role
Product Designer
Services
Figma
Highlighted Skills
Menus & System Feedback
Timeframe
7 weeks
Designed a digital pet prototype inspired by the iconic 1990s Tamagotchi, encompassing character creation, device interfaces, controls, and navigational menus. Focused on integrating real-world gestures and intuitive feedback to deliver a seamless and engaging user experience.
01
Context
This project drew inspiration from the Tamagotchi toy, originally released by Bandai in the 1990s as a virtual pet care simulation game. The task was to prototype a modern-day reimagining of the Tamagotchi experience, focusing on simulated physical controls designed to support up to level 3 navigation. The character was required to convey their current status, movement, and emotion through animation, enabling users to navigate through the experience and take care of the pet.
02
Goal
To create a lovable sunny side up egg with a backstory the user is able to connect with, and to also craft intuitive physical controls that allow the user to navigate through the Sunny experience.
03
Inspiration
Gudetama and the limited edition Gudetama Tamagotchi, Big Hero 6, Eggdog, and the tiny yet necessary and under-appreciated elements we interact with in our daily lives.
04
Sunny's Backstory (Summarized)
Sunny is a sunny-side-up egg that has been left behind in a kitchen by the previous owners. He lives day-to-day alone on a cutting board, sharing fragments of company with leftover peas and some random kitchen utensils nearby. He loves to eat the ingredients used to make omelets, nibbling on scraps of peppers, spinach, cheese, and bacon. His favorite spot is a warm frying pan, where he would take naps and dream of a happier existence.
One day, a chef arrives in the kitchen and immediately notices the lonely egg. She decides to take care of Sunny, putting him into a hollow eggshell. The chef talks to him as she cooks, telling him about her day and asking for his opinion on the dishes she is making. Sunny loves the attention and starts to feel less alone. He enjoys meal times, as the chef always shares a few ingredients with him. Sunny is grateful for her kindness, and he begins to look forward to spending time with her.
05
Result
The Sunny Tamagotchi focuses on non-touch UI controls, navigational menus, positive feedback, and gestures that mimic real-life interactions. The experience provides timely feedback and messaging to ensure a confident user experience. Additionally, it features a navigation menu that allows users to seamlessly switch between sections, including the crucial ability to exit from any action. Accompanying the mock-up of the palm-sized device are a detailed site map, a character-inspired user flow, and a heartfelt Sunny origin story.