Author: Xueer Zhang
Three Things I Did Not Know About Apple HIG
Firstly, I would not consider the following practice is good before I read Apple HIG. It seems hard to get the main point of what the article is about, and it certainly does not showcase the identity of the subject matter. But Apple says, “Incorporate a brand’s assets in a refined, unobtrusive way.”
Secondly, I have always wondering why music apps did not incorporate Shake gesture to switch to the next song in a playlist. But Apple says, “Avoid associating different actions with the standard gestures.”
Lastly, I really loved some of the loading animations and tutorials. But Apple says, “Start instantly.”
Shadowmatic
Shadowmatic is an intriguing puzzle game which gives abstract-shaped 3D objects in a spotlight. Players rotate the objects in different directions to match the silhouette to a certain shape. It is full of exploration because there is no indication of what the final shape looks like in the beginning. However, there are five dots at the bottom of the view which tell how close you are to the final shape. If it took so long and a player still cannot figure it out, there are four hints available for each level to be redeemed by hints-points.
Apart from beautiful interface, graphics and immersive background music, I am mostly amazed by how imaginative the shapes of abstract 3D objects can be, compared to their silhouettes. This is the major aspect that makes me think Shadowmatic can compete with The Monument Valley.
