JD Institute of Fashion Technology
Game Interfaces Aren’t Just for Gamers: Why Designers Should Pay Attention

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Sound familiar? Game interfaces have trained us for years, shaping how we interact with virtual worlds. But what if we told you that UI design is no longer just about menus and health bars? It’s about experience, immersion, and storytelling.

From the neon-glow interfaces of Cyberpunk 2077 to Fortnite’s ultra-responsive HUD, and the much-anticipated innovations of GTA VI, UI designers are transforming how we play, explore, and even feel in digital realms.

And if you think this magic is limited to gaming, think again. The principles of Communication Design—the very backbone of UI creation—are shaping industries like fashion, branding, and digital marketing. At JD Institute, students learn how to bridge technology with creativity, opening doors to careers in game design, interactive fashion experiences, and futuristic branding.

Now, let’s press start and explore how the UI is changing the game.

Fortnite: The Art of Keeping It Simple (But Stylish)

Fortnite isn’t just a battle royale; it’s a masterclass in user-friendly design. The game’s interface is a perfect blend of simplicity and style. A battle royale game where milliseconds decide victory, Fortnite perfects speed and accessibility in UI design. Its interface stands out due to:

• Minimalist HUD: Only essential details—health, ammo, and map—are visible, avoiding distraction.
• Smart Inventory System: One-button access to weapons and items keeps the action fluid.
• Cross-Platform Adaptability: Whether on console, mobile, or PC, the UI scales seamlessly.

Aspiring Communication Designers must know how to balance function and aesthetics, much like how to craft user-friendly experiences in branding, retail, and digital spaces.

Cyberpunk 2077: UI as an Extension of Reality

Cyberpunk 2077’s interface is more than just functional—it’s a narrative device. The game’s HUD is a neon-lit, glitch-filled masterpiece that immerses you in its dystopian world. Despite its controversial launch, Cyberpunk 2077 remains a masterclass in immersive UI. What makes its interface unique?

• Holographic Menus: The in-game phone, messages, and maps feel like natural extensions of the cyber-world.
• Augmented Reality (AR) Elements: Hacking, targeting, and scanning objects integrate UI seamlessly into gameplay.
• Braindance Mechanic: A first-of-its-kind interactive investigation tool, blending UI with storytelling.

This immersive UI approach is a game-changer, proving that Communication Designers craft interfaces don’t just assist gameplay—they enhance storytelling.

GTA VI: The Future of Dynamic Design

Rockstar Games has consistently set the benchmark for open-world immersion, and GTA VI is expected to take UI realism to another level. While GTA VI is still under wraps, rumors suggest its interface will be a game-changer. Leaked details and past trends suggest:

• Real-time Smartphone UI: Instead of pausing gameplay, players might access emails, messages, and maps through a functional in-game phone.
• Dynamic GPS System: Instead of static mini-maps, GTA VI could integrate an AI-driven navigation system that reacts to traffic and weather conditions.
• Customizable HUD: Players may get more control over interface elements, making their experience truly unique.

This evolution mirrors the rise of adaptive UI in modern design, where user behavior dictates how an interface responds—whether in gaming, social media apps, or e-commerce platforms. As a Communication Designer, you need to think about how your designs can evolve to meet user needs.

The Rise of Customization: Gamers as Co-Designers

Customization has become a major focus in modern game UIs. Titles like, NBA 2K, The Last of Us Part II and Elden Ring give players the power to modify their interfaces, offering:

• Adjustable HUD elements for a personalized experience: (Elden Ring takes player customization to the next level where players can modify their HUD display (health bars, map markers, etc.) to enhance their personal experience.

• Customizable fonts and colors for accessibility: (The Last of Us Part II) offers a wide range of accessibility options, including customizable fonts and colorblind settings. Players can adjust text size and choose color schemes that better suit their visual needs, such as selecting a high-contrast mode for those with limited vision or colorblind filters to help players differentiate between colors more easily.

AI-driven recommendations based on playing style: NBA 2K also uses AI to offer dynamic recommendations based on a player’s in-game actions. The game analyzes how players are playing and suggests improvements, like adjusting their shooting style or recommending specific drills that align with their gameplay behavior.

This shift reflects a broader trend in digital design—users want control over their interactions. Students at JD Institute’s Communication Design programme learn these interactive UI principles into their own creative fields, making themselves future-ready innovators.

Final Boss: The Future is Yours to Design

Game UI isn’t just about clicking buttons—it’s about storytelling, immersion, and emotional connection. Today’s designers blend technology, psychology, and creativity to shape experiences across gaming, branding, and beyond.

At JD Institute, students go beyond textbooks—they experiment, innovate, and design future-ready experiences. Whether it’s crafting game interfaces, digital fashion showrooms, or interactive brand storytelling, this is where creativity meets limitless possibilities.

So, are you ready to design the future of digital interaction?
Or will you just press Start and watch?