a. Process & Game Refinement Overview

In this phase, Let's Ceramic! shifted from an ambitious multiplayer concept to a focused single-player experience. We refined core modules—shaping, painting, firing, and scene transitions—around hand-tracking input. Shaping now maps to palm height, painting uses cultural texture swapping, and firing includes failure mechanics. Simplifying to single-player allowed us to deliver deeper interaction and cultural storytelling.

We completed and refined the modules to support shaping, painting, firing, and transitioning. Ceramic shaping is achieved via bimanual hand interaction; painting is implemented through texture switching inspired by cultural artwork; firing adds visual feedback like cracks; and scene transitions are triggered via gestures. This focused design allowed players to engage more personally with craft-making at their own pace.

b. IMAGINE Methods Used & Reflections

We created a Unity-based interactive mockup for Meta Quest 3, in line with the IMAGINE method (“pen, paper, laptop, game engine or prototyping apps”). Initially, shaping used raycasting to select specific ceramic segments. However, after testing, we shifted to palm-height mapping for more intuitive control, mirroring real-world pottery gestures.

We also removed tabletop constraints to give users greater freedom and ergonomic comfort. These changes significantly improved user immersion. The prototype included shaping, painting, firing, and transitioning modules, allowing us to test responsiveness, game flow, and cultural perception.

c. Playtested Mockup & Cultural Gameworld

The prototype combined bimanual shaping (with potential future enhancements like automatic rotation), texture-based painting, scene transitions, and a conceptual firing system. The painting system used real-time texture swapping inspired by ARoS Museum artworks, reinforcing cultural themes.

The firing system remains in concept but is designed to reflect the fragility and mastery of ceramic craftsmanship. If the ceramic is too thin, or the temperature is too high or low, structural failure occurs—adding tension and meaning. These design principles echo the technical precision and symbolism of traditional ceramic work. The full gameplay loop—from shaping to firing—embodied cultural tactility and expressive fragility.

d. Playtest Feedback & Reflection

Players appreciated the physical realism of shaping and the emotional response to firing. Some found gesture-based transitions unclear, so we added segment indicators and gesture-hold mechanics. Overall, the testing confirmed that even simplified interaction systems can support meaningful, culturally grounded expression.

Moving Forward into CREATE

We now move into the CREATE phase with a complete interaction loop and clear cultural focus. Next steps include polishing visual/audio feedback, refining transitions, and preparing an EXPO-ready version.