Wanderkin: An Original App
Wanderkin is a location-based exploration game that reveals a hidden world of magical Spirits shaped by real environments. Players partner with a “Familiar,” and nurture its growth through real-world exploration. Every journey uncovers new spirits, unlocks abilities, and transforms the Familiar based on where and how players explore, turning everyday walks into adventures of discovery.
Created in collaboration with Dimes Horner
Deliverables: UX/UI design, Explainer video, Case study document
My Role: UX/UI design, Research, Case study, Paper prototyping
Recognition:
Featured in the American University Design Show.
Presented research on Physical and Mental Health as part of the 36th Robyn Rafferty Mathias Student Research Conference at American University, Washington, D.C.
Process Documentation
The Solution
Wanderkin transforms the act of going outside into an emotionally engaging adventure.
Through an augmented “spirit lens,” users can perceive and interact with whimsical creatures tied to real-world environments.
By bonding with a growing Familiar and discovering new Spirits based on where they explore, Wanderkin gamifies movement and creativity, helping users reconnect with their environment, develop a habit of exploration, and (most importantly) find magic in the ordinary.
The Problem
In a culture of constant screen time, many young adults feel detached from their surroundings and uninspired to go outside.
Wanderkin invites users to rediscover a sense of wonder in the real world, transforming ordinary places into spaces for curiosity, reflection, and creativity.
Design Approach
The Design
UX user testing found that Wanderkin’s final design should prioritize comfort, clarity, and accessibility while also motivating users to keep coming back after discovering new places and connections.
My design contributions to Wanderkin focus on three key elements:
Developing a playful yet clear color palette that feels engaging while ensuring readability.
Creating an intuitive map page that streamlines navigation, letting users quickly find and filter their preferred categories.
Designing a welcoming landing page that acts as a personalized home base, visually reflecting users' progress and achievements.
Wanderkin’s visual assets wouldn’t have been possible without Dimes Horner’s talent in bringing them to life!
Inspiration
This design is a nod to the games that colored our childhoods: Tamagotchi, Animal Crossing, Pokémon Go. Pixelated details and lively, candy-colored tones invite a sense of nostalgia and joy.
The Impact
Wanderkin began as a simple question:
What if going outside felt as magical as stepping into a game world?
Wanderkin is proof that exploration can be local and meaningful. The process of creating it reinforced a belief that games can be companions to real life, inviting players to see their own neighborhoods as worthy of exploring.