Leave It There
Design Problem:
Players cannot reconfigure presentation and control settings each play session due to the time or effort it takes to do it.
Design Solution:
Players can save and retain settings for presentation and controls between play sessions so that they do not have to do configuration every play session.
Related Patterns:
APX Design Drivers:
The above design problem can occur in the following contexts:
Players need the game to save the controller and control settings between games so that they do not have to repeat the setup every game session.
Players need the game to save the display and presentation settings between games so that they do not have to repeat the setup every game session.
Players need the game to save their interface settings (e.g. HUD) between games so that they do not have to repeat the setup every game session.
Examples of this Pattern in Action
Retain multiple control schemes of remapped controls in Injustice 2
Description:
As part of Injustice 2’s remappable controls features, 2 custom control figuration slots are available so that players may save 2 different remapped control schemes for their gameplay. Once these custom controls have been selected, they will remain there for use at the player’s discretion. Players may also reset their custom control schemes to the default controls if they choose to overwrite their previous selections.
Retain presentation settings between sessions in Metal Gear Solid 5: The Phantom Pain
Description:
In Metal Gear Solid 5: The Phantom Pain, play can change a number of settings including screen brightness for the game. These settings are preserved through gameplay and between sessions. Of note, before making any changes to the brightness or any other of the game’s settings, a confirmation menu pops up asking the player if they are sure about these changes with a “yes” or “no” response as potential options. Preservation of settings assists players in maintaining consistent gameplay experiences that have been tailored to their liking. Additionally, presenting players with an option to confirm their changes is helpful as it prevents changing settings in error.
Retain startup settings between sessions in Grand Theft Auto 5
Description:
In Grand Theft Auto 5, there are options to choose either an offline Story Mode or the GTA Online mode. Â When the player sets this, it will be retained between game sessions so that the game will always begin in that mode, bypassing the need to choose the mode each time the player starts the game.