H.A.V.O.K
Industrial Design
Overview
HAVOK takes the classic shooting game to the next level by focusing on what makes it unforgettable: raw sensory engagement. Every detail is crafted to heighten the intensity, from the sharp crack of darts hitting the cellophane screen to the satisfying impact when shots land. This is a game that thrives on the thrill of the feeling of getting hit. The unique design doesn’t just challenge your aim but your nerve, with dynamic targets and a system that rewards precision under pressure. HAVOK balances chaos and control, offering an experience that feels fresh, exciting, and unapologetically visceral. It’s not about adding more features to the experience – it’s about amplifying the details that matter, making every shot fired and every hit taken feel meaningful. Whether you’re in it to dominate or just for the rush, HAVOK delivers a focused, high-energy experience that stands apart from the crowd.
Approach
By replacing a typical trigger with an air pump, we discovered that the haptic resistance of squeezing the pump and the satisfying "pop" added a new layer to shooting—but this was just one part of the gameplay. We experimented with pneumatics, shield deflectors, and even fishing reels to enhance the experience. Yet, the balloon’s unpredictability frustrated players, and the extra features felt like clutter, over-controlling the game. Reviewing our user tests, we realized the thrill wasn’t just in firing the shot—it was in the reaction of being shot at. True immersion isn’t about adding features but making players feel the game at every moment. We focused on creating satisfaction through visual, audio, and haptic feedback, refining every detail. Even the barrel required millimeter-precise adjustments to perfect the “pop.” We chose a tightly stretched cellophane screen for a sharp, impactful sound when hit. Working with such delicate material meant countless tweaks, from c-clips to vacuum forming, ensuring a seamless, immersive design.
An group work by Leon Pereira and Zoey Chan Under the guidance of Donn Koh Platform leader | Everything is Playable Division of Industrial Design, National University of Singapore