Stellaris — Lead UI/UX on Expansions
I led UI/UX design for Stellaris expansions, focusing on elevating user experience through intuitive, scalable interface systems. Working closely with cross‑disciplinary teams, I designed new gameplay features, refined navigation flows, and enhanced the overall usability of Stellaris — a complex 4X sci‑fi strategy game.
“My role spanned from early concepting UI to polished implementation, with a focus on player retention, accessibility, and cohesive visual hierarchy across expansions like Toxoids, First Contact and Galactic Paragons.”
Highlights: Navigated engine limits, partnered closely with engineering to ship performant UI for complex systems, and balanced community expectations with production realities.
The
Challenges And Constraints
- Legacy game engine with strict limitations
- Feature implementation required unconventional UI patterns
- Needed to preserve design consistency across evolving systems
- Adapting design vision within strict tech limits
- Navigating evolving gameplay complexity
- Designing for long‑term players with established expectations
“When I first joined the project, I couldn’t understand why the UIs didn’t just use more space. Everything was crammed into these tiny windows — it made no sense to me. Oh, how naive I was.”
The
Key Learnings
- Technical constraints fuel creative design thinking
- Strong early collaboration with developers helps prevent blockers and align the vision
- Minor UI refinements can dramatically improve retention and feature enjoyment
- Navigating evolving gameplay complexity
- Vocal minority doesn't represent the whole user base
“When I first joined the project, I couldn’t understand why the UIs didn’t just use more space. Everything was crammed into these tiny windows — it made no sense to me. Oh, how naive I was.”
The
Results
Process
Iterate within constraints
Every UI feature began with technical feasibility checks. I prototyped in Figma, validated with engineering, then iterated in-engine to ensure performance.
Community feedback loops were essential—Stellaris players are passionate and vocal about UX.