2023 • Irreverent Labs: MechFightClub

Blending robots, roosters, NFT’s, and gaming - MechaFightClub (MFC) was a groundbreaking AI-driven blockchain game that blended cutting-edge technologies with engaging gameplay. The game sought to revolutionize the concept of NFT characters by creating unique, autonomous, AI-infused "Mechabot" roosters with simulated genomes. These NFT-based characters could develop distinct personalities and fighting styles through player interaction in dojo-style mini-games, then compete in battles.

While MFC’s primary internal goal was to drive the growth and development of Irreverent Labs' larger AI model, the project also aimed to redefine digital gaming by fusing artificial intelligence with gameplay mechanics, creating immersive and personalized player experiences.

Role & Contributions:
Coming onto the project mid-development, I took ownership of the UX/UI design and visual framework, focusing on transforming MFC into a cohesive, gamified experience. Key contributions included:

1. Design Language: Established and refined the design system, building upon an initial framework provided by a third-party agency to ensure it met the unique demands of the game.

2. Mini-Game Design: Designed distinct UI styles for each of the mini-games, ensuring a cohesive feel within the larger game universe while giving each game its own visual identity.

3. Player Engagement: Developed iconography and leaderboard interfaces that significantly boosted player activity in the "training dojo" by motivating users to compete and track their Mechabot's progress.

4. User Experience Expertise: Leveraged my background in game design to guide navigation flows, reward collection mechanics, and player control layouts, introducing best practices for consoles and keyboard configurations to a team largely unfamiliar with game development.

Collaboration & Methodology:

• Collaborated daily with 3D artists, engineers, developers, and the creative director to align assets and user flows with gameplay goals.

• Applied human-centered design principles and design thinking, gathering and prioritizing community feedback through Discord town hall sessions, resulting in actionable improvements to the user experience.

Impact & Reflection:
MFC was an ambitious project that merged my passion for game design and emerging AI technologies. By infusing my expertise from past roles at EA Games and Zynga, I helped establish MFC as a truly unique entry in the blockchain gaming space. While evolving U.S. cryptocurrency policies ultimately led to the game’s shelving, the potential for its AI-driven, player-customized characters to grow and thrive remains a testament to the project’s innovative vision.

Skills & Tools:
Figma • Adobe Creative Suite • Design Systems • Cross-Functional Collaboration • UX Research • UI/Interaction Design • Game Design • Storyboarding • Community Engagement • Human-Centered Design • Responsive Web Design