The document summarizes a usability review for the prototype of the action roguelite game "Crafty Survivors". It identifies 3 potential usability issues: 1) The game does not provide any instructions or objectives for levels, causing confusion. 2) Special attacks do not always function as expected, feeling inconsistent. 3) Upgrade descriptions are lengthy without clear keywords, taking too long to read and potentially causing mistaken choices.

1. Crafty Survivors
Usability Review by Chantel
February 2023

2. Summary
Genre: Action Roguelite
Developers: Flannel Bear Games
Release: Estimated Q1 2023
Version Played: Prototype V.1
Time Played: 20min
After playing the prototype for 20 minutes,
(3) potential usability issues were identified.

3. Issue #1: Unclear Game Objectives
Cause:
- When starting the first stage, players are not provided
with any instructions or guidance.
- The screen does not display any details or hints
regarding the goals or objectives for successful
completion of the level.
Impact:
- Players may experience confusion as the conditions
for success/completion are not clear.
- Players may be unable to complete the stage.
- This may lead players to become frustrated and stop
playing the game altogether.
Screen displaying the player’s stats,
special attacks, and gold.
However, no objectives are noted.

4. Issue #2: Inconsistent Performance of Special Attacks
Cause:
- When executing the special attack “Salt Rain,” it will
sometimes randomly launch outside of the area targeted
by the player.
Impact:
- Players may experience confusion as the special attack
performs differently than expected.
- This inconsistency may lead players to perceive a lack
of control over the combat mechanics and feel frustrated.
“Salt Rain” special attack executes north of
the player, outside of the target area.

5. Issue #3: Inefficient Upgrade Descriptions
Cause:
- When players level up, they are prompted to choose from
a selection of upgrades, which are presented using lengthy
descriptions.
- The descriptions do not contain any keywords, icons, or
highlighted sections to indicate their function or value.
Impact:
- Players may take a considerable amount of time to read
each description and compare the value of the upgrades.
- This may break players’ “flow” while in combat.
- Players may mistakenly choose an upgrade and miss out
on creating a good “build.”
Player is prompted to choose an upgrade
after leveling up. Upgrades can be special
attacks or passive abilities.

6. Thank you!