In Conversation with Game Designer Ofir Rosen
In Conversation with Game Designer Ofir Rosen
Artist, and maker Ofir inspires with his unique approach to game design, arcade controllers, and input devices.
Appears in this episode
Ofir Rosen’s work caught my eye with the reveal of his Terrarium Hitbox…
..Not only was his unique take on the device refreshing, but Ofir reminded me of the potential that great hardware can have on the gameplay experience.
I started to look more into Ofir’s work, sparking new possibilities for users and the competitive spaces that players engage in battle. Classic titles like Tekken, Street Fighter, and Guilty Gear could all use a lush and organic backdrop from time to time.
Terrarium Hitbox by Ofir Rosen
The hitbox is a device made mostly for fighting games that seek an alternative to the classic joystick + button combination players are used to. With the hitbox, there is no “stick”; just buttons. This buttons-only mechanism allows for some very unique design options, increases potential for portability, and even increases command input accuracy for some.
“As the best all-button arcade controller in the world, the core advantage of the Hit Box is that you have more deliberate control over your game, helping you make fewer mistakes in a match.” - Hitbox Arcade
Ofir’s work manages to pose thought provoking questions around input devices, user experience, and empathy in relation to technology. With the Terrarium Hitbox, these themes have already inspired more fightstick builders.
The Terrarium Hitbox plays with the effects of plants on human mood, and cognitive function, while also creating a relationship of care between the user, and the input device. By doing this it aims to create a more positive and caring environment for the user, in a space that's historically fairly toxic. - Ofir Rosen via @ofirrosen_
We caught up with Ofir to learn more about his ideas around input devices, fighting games, art, tech, and his future inventions. Listen to the full conversation above.
Ofir Rosen via ofir-rosen.com
Check it out and learn more about Ofir’s work: https://ofir-rosen.com/
And connect with him on Instagram : www.instagram.com/ofirrosen_/
