Luken Portfolio | Universe Game

Designing a Player-Driven Roleplay Platform with The Universe Game

The Universe Game is a browser-based roleplay platform where narrative, chance, and player choice come together. The project involved designing the world, characters, gamified systems, interactive maps, and user flows, while leading a team of artists to bring the universe and its immersive experiences to life.

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Interactive Dice Powered Roleplay Experience

Universe Game is a browser-based experience that blends dice-driven mechanics with the depth and creativity of written roleplay. By combining chance with narrative choice, the project creates an immersive environment where stories evolve organically through play. Each roll shapes the direction of the experience, ensuring that every session feels dynamic, engaging, and uniquely driven by both player intent and unpredictable outcomes.

Creative Lead, UX Design, & Systems Designer

'Universe Game' Project 2011-2013

I led the creative and design direction of the project, developing the world, characters, and narrative foundation from the ground up. My role encompassed designing the user journey and wireframes, writing dialogue, and planning interactive maps, gamified systems, and rewards structures.

In addition, I integrated advertising into the experience and managed a talented team of volunteer artists and designers, guiding them in bringing the characters, environments, and explorable world to life.

Power Imbalances and Safety Risks in Online Roleplay

The core challenge was designing a fair and engaging system for written roleplay that reduced power imbalances and unchecked player control (often referred to as narrative dominance, common on text-based platforms).

The project aimed to introduce structured randomization to guide outcomes and ensure balanced interactions, while remaining flexible enough to support creative storytelling. This approach also helped bridge tabletop roleplaying audiences into a written format by using familiar dice-based mechanics.

Additionally, the project addressed safety and community concerns by separating youth and adult spaces, introducing a one-time paid verification model to create a clearly defined, adult-only environment, and reducing exposure to inappropriate content.

Solving the problem

To address these challenges, I began by researching existing platforms with similar mechanics or goals and found no comparable models. I then created a test environment on an existing platform to trial randomized mechanics and gauge user interest and engagement.

Alongside this, I conducted user surveys to identify key pain points and gather firsthand feedback on experiences with existing roleplay platforms.

Using these insights, I outlined clear user flows, gamified core interactions such as registration, and designed a map-based navigation system. Finally, I assembled and led a team of talented artists to visually bring the world, characters, and systems to life, translating research and design strategy into a cohesive playable experience.

Digital Illustration Design Services Available

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Vibrant worlds and adventures crafted through collaborative word-based storytelling, where every user determined the histories of the realms. Players could engage in real-time, contributing to an ever-evolving narrative shaped by the choices and chance encounters dictated by the dice and their own imaginations.

Rich Storytelling Environment

NPC characters designed for a space pirate storyline.

Browser Game Project from 2011

No downloads or installations were required to run the game. Able to play from a browser, it was accessible anytime, anywhere, and to anyone.

Leading a Team of Artists

Through online communities and networking platforms, I created a team of individuals with diverse skills and led them in the design and development of the project's vision.

Overview of Digital Product

A browser-based web game that seamlessly merges the thrill of dice-based randomness with the rich narrative world of written roleplay.
An immersive and captivating experience where chance and storytelling come together, creating a dynamic and engaging gaming environment.

At the heart of the Universe Game is the use of dice mechanics, injecting an element of unpredictability into the role-playing journey.

Whether a seasoned storyteller or a newcomer to the world of written roleplay, the roll of the virtual dice introduces exciting twists and turns to the narrative.

Each throw of the dice influences the unfolding story, adding an element of chance that keeps the gameplay fresh, dynamic, and full of surprises.

Gaming and User Experience

From towering citadels to hidden caverns, the artists and I explored the intricacies of building exterior and interior environments, ensuring seamless integration of aesthetics with gameplay.

The result is a visually stunning game world that not only serves as a backdrop to the narrative but also enhances the immersive experience for players.

As my first project, I am very proud of the progress we made and the unique concept that I designed.

Universe Game World Building

As the visionary behind the game, my role extended beyond conceptualizing the narrative to orchestrating the creation of the game's visual universe.

Leading a talented team of volunteer artists, I guided the process of translating ideas into tangible, vivid landscapes.

Starting with detailed maps, we conceptualized the expansive realm, envisioning diverse terrains, mystical landmarks, and vibrant cityscapes.

Gaming and User Experience

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Get In Touch To See If I Am Available For Hire!

For over 10+ years, I have honed my abilities as a UX/UI Designer. I am highly skilled in information layout design, websites & funnel systems, proposals & presentations, digital products, and custom design that converts visitors through powerful experiences.

Download my resume below or fill out the form to get in touch regarding your project or opportunity.

Multi-skilled individual with a well-rounded understanding of the customer journey and the tools used to affect decision-making through web design and media. Professional with creative, technical, and marketing experience.

Email at lukensurge@gmail.com

Currently open to accepting offers. Get in touch through the form, or email me with more information regarding your opportunity.