Background
This project explores ways to enhance the user experience and refine key interface elements of the Nintendo Switch 2. With the console positioned as Nintendo’s next-generation platform, the goal was to reimagine how users interact with its features. Bringing forward a more modern, intuitive, and personalized experience that matches the evolution of the hardware.
Identifying Issues
Lack of Change
There's surprising little change in the UI/UX experience for returning players and newcomers. That’s not to say it's a bad thing; the original interface was functionally strong and minimal. However, some enhancements or modern inclusions, especially compared to competing platforms, seem to have been left out even with more features available.
Stuffed Menu Bar
I wanted to improved contrast in the base light mode, without the high-contrast setting is enabled. While accessibility isn’t entirely compromised due to the always-visible colored borders, I still believe contrast would enhance visibility and comfort. I’m also surprised there are still no ability for users to personalize with themes, that would go a long way in making the experience feel more unique.
Contrast & Personalization
The previous version of the menu bar felt streamlined, but more additions to me created a more clutter. A particularly noticeable change is the removal of the All Software button, now tucked away into the menu bar in favor of Game Cards. Accessing the game library of owned software for me felt hidden especially when the Game Cards icon doesn't appropriately represent non-gaming applications.
Initial Solution & Goals
How might we reimagine the Nintendo Switch 2 interface to enhance usability, personalization, and modern expectations while commemorating past experiences and delivering a next-gen feel that stands out among competitors?
Goals
Design an engaging and uplifting user experience
Empower users to personalize and expand their experience
Integrate meaningful features with modern standards
Utilize the full extent of the console's potential
Ideate
From start to finish, the design process began with breaking down the core sections of the Nintendo Switch 2 interface. I created wireframes to explore layout, structure, and functionality, which laid the foundation for the transition into high-fidelity visuals and final design decisions.
Page Layer Structures
Low Fidelity Wireframe
Home Page Redesign
The redesigned Home Menu introduces new features while making smarter use of previously underutilized screen space. Notable updates include a relocated pop-up notification area, a streamlined bottom menu bar, and the addition of a top navigation bar for easier access to core sections.
New Features
Top Bar Navigation
The new top bar navigation introduces key icons placed along a streamlined navigation strip, allowing users to switch between sections using the ZL and ZR trigger buttons. This design enables quick access to the Social Menu and Media Page without needing to open separate screens making transitions faster and more fluid.
Themes
The new top bar navigation introduces key icons placed along a streamlined navigation strip, allowing users to switch between sections using the ZL and ZR trigger buttons. This design enables quick access to the Social Menu and Media Page without needing to open separate screens making transitions faster and more fluid.
All Software Reintergrated
Reintroducing the All Software button helps returning users quickly locate their full library, including both games and applications. This section has been expanded to include Game Cards and Collections, allowing users to organize their content and surface selected folders directly on the Home Menu for easier access and personalization.
New Social Page
The new Social Page builds on the current Nintendo Switch Online features by introducing a more robust social experience. With inclusions of the friends list, activity feed, and a new found messaging system titled Chats. With quick-access functionality powered by the new C-Button, users can stay connected more easily, even without requiring an online subscription at launch.
Friends Menu
The new Friends menu enhances visibility of your friends' activity with indicators to their Game Chat status and if in docked or portable mode.
Chats
Chats are now available on the, featuring a new design that enables full text messaging with a friend or in group conversations.
Quick Game Chat
Game Chat now includes quick-access functionality within its social menu, separating itself during exisiting overlay during gameplay.
Media Page Redesign
The redesigned Media Page aimed to keep a consistent design following the Social Menu while keeping the original functions.
