My Latest Design: Eduardo the Samurai Toaster!

I recently had the opportunity to work with some good friends and colleagues of mine, Semnat Studios (http://www.semnatstudios.com), to create an online promotion of their recent WiiWare game, Eduardo the Samurai Toaster. Let me preface this article with a quick overview of the game. Eduardo the Samurai Toaster is a fast-paced, run ‘n gun type of game much like the old Nintendo game, Contra. Your toaster character runs, jumps, shoots pastries, and throws things throughout the game. Absolutely fun.

I want to quickly go over some of the challenges I faced within the design and development of this one-page, marketing-focused site.

1. Branding and Building Brand/Product Recognition

By placing the ‘logo’ very large in the prime real estate and immediately showing imagery of Eduardo, himself, the viewer will quickly build an association with the game even if this is the first visual connection they’ve had with it.

I also placed Eduardo throughout the page to show off the actual in-game elements that he interacts with. Showing off Eduardo’s in-game ’scooter’ and jetpack definitely give some fun incentive to get the game and try it out.

2. Showing the Quality of Gameplay and Game Art

Since this game is only available on WiiWare (http://www.wiiware.com), it is not actually in stores anywhere! This is quick a challenge for marketing because users have to own a Wii to purchase it on the Wii’s online store. Because of that, it’s really imperative that the experience of the game is portrayed and portrayed well.

The best way to give someone an idea of what the gameplay is like is to show them a video. A video is great because it can jump from level to level and show off some of the most fun environments, game music, and character interactions.

The next best way to show users the game is to have a large collection of screenshots. Many of the WiiWare game sites showed a couple screenshots of their game, but we really wanted to give the user exactly what they wanted. Three rows of images to ’sell’ them on this fun game!

3. Start the Eduardo Community

80% of people would rather buy a product that their friend recommends than one that the company itself recommends (or something like that). So giving people the opportunity to promote and sell Eduardo to their own friends on social media sites like facebook and twitter are absolutely necessary.

I also added two sets of rotating testimonials in the middle of the page. The first one is a press testimonial from magazines and game websites. These are where most gamers look for good feedback on which games to buy and why. The second testimonial is a personal testimonial from friends, fans, and anyone that would like to be included! I added the feature to submit your testimonial at the bottom-right so users knew that this site isn’t just about game promotion, it’s also about hearing feedback from the gamers themselves!

I am really excited to hear from Semnat Studios and other Eduardo fans about their game experiences! If you are interested in the game, check it out at http://www.eduardothesamuraitoaster.com!

Filed under: Design, News by Nick Wichman
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