Problem.
The Steam mobile app is a vital tool for gamers, providing access to the Steam marketplace, game library, and community features. However, its current design presents navigation challenges, particularly with an overwhelming array of drop down menus and buttons, with there being a redundant and confusing display of information. This redesign aims to improve usability by streamlining navigation, simplifying the user interface, and enhancing game discovery for a more seamless experience.
The current state of the app
The current Steam mobile app interface presents a redundancy in navigation. At the top, there's a dropdown menu bar alongside options for Wishlist and Wallet, while the bottom right features another menu section with icons for browsing, notifications, and account settings. This duplication can create cognitive overload and confusion for users, as multiple navigation patterns coexist without a clear hierarchy. Streamlining these elements could enhance usability and create a more intuitive browsing experience.
Solution.
I decided to solve this problem by reducing the overwhelming amount of menus for the user. This was done by switching the hamburger menu button with the shopping cart button, as well as removing the redundant drop down menu/buttons under the search bar and organizing that information under the universal hamburger menu. The thought process behind this design focuses on the idea that the user can find everything they need in one menu section that’s clearly located in the top left corner, instead of scavenging all around the interface to find what they’re looking for.
This Steam redesign enhances user experience by improving accessibility, navigation, and visual hierarchy. The new interface streamlines discovery with clearly defined sections for special offers, featured games, and personalized recommendations. Key improvements include an intuitive browsing system, a single uniform menu bar reducing menu redundancy, and better categorization of store elements. By refining UI clarity and simplifying interactions, this redesign optimizes game discovery while maintaining Steam’s core functionality, ensuring a seamless and engaging experience for users.
Evolved Steam Experience
This redesign refines Steam’s interface while staying true to its signature look. By enhancing clarity, improving responsiveness, and modernizing visual elements, the update feels fresh yet familiar. These changes elevate usability without compromising the platform’s core experience.
