Week 5: Interactive Prototype I - ActionScript

What is the key function or interaction for your concept?

The user moves the character (Meow Meow Cat) forward through a series of coloured dots.  Each level increases in complexity and speed, so user speed is a factor.

How does it work?

The user uses the keyboard arrows (up, down, left, right) to move the character.  The keyboard will be modified so each arrow direction represents a different colour.  A timer will be used to test how long it takes users to complete a level.

What do you want to know about your prototype?

• How the player moves (player moves with input, path moves in response to player)
• How long a user takes to complete a level
• Does viewing a timer affect user performance

How do you want IP1 to work?

1. A testing computer is set-up with a modified keyboard.  Coloured dots are blu-tacked on to arrows.
2. User sits down at a testing computer ready to play
3. User reads on-screen instructions:
1. Your keyboard arrows have been replaced with coloured dots.
2. Press the corresponding colour from screen to keyboard to move your character forward
3. Level ends when you reach the end of the row of dots
4. There is a start button that users click to begin game
5. Screen includes character on far left-hand side, a row of coloured dots (four colours), timer in top left corner, start, stop, and reset buttons on top right hand corner.
6. User presses 'coloured' arrow keys to move character forward
7. Time how long users take to reach end of row.
8. Users can restart and replay as many times as they like 
9. User can stop play at any time

What is not included

• Exit button to close program
• Winning or losing (reaching end by a certain time)
• More than one level (and level progression)