Flow, estética e emoção: uma abordagem contemporânea no design e desenvolvimento do jogo digital Space Vibes

Abstract

This Undergraduate Thesis aims to present the process of conceptualization, theoretical foundation, and development of an original digital game designed around the visual and sound aesthetics of LoFi and Retrowave cultures. The project explores how immersive, relaxing, and emotionally meaningful sensory experiences can be delivered to players through the integration of art, narrative, interactivity, and sound in digital environments. The research is supported by a solid theoretical framework, encompassing studies on games, gamification, interactivity, emotional design, and the Flow theory, while also addressing technical aspects such as game engines, shaders, particle systems, and visual effects using the Unity engine, with additional support from tools like Adobe Photoshop and CorelDRAW. Space Vibes is an experimental game developed with a Retrowave aesthetic and LoFi atmosphere, simulating the sensation of floating in space in zero gravity. The methodology followed a practical approach, including brainstorming, prototyping, testing, and final adjustments. The game features mechanics based on zero-gravity movement, procedural generation of elements, and the harmonic integration of soundtrack and audiovisual effects. As a result, a functional prototype was developed, demonstrating the technical and aesthetic viability of the proposal and the potential of combining Retrowave and LoFi aesthetics in digital game design. The project also discusses the use of artificial intelligence to optimize production scope and time and proposes its possible application in therapeutic contexts. As a final graduation project, this work was designed to be replicable, offering a clear, accessible, and technically grounded structure for other developers interested in creating their own independent titles. Thus, it contributes to the field of independent game design by proposing a sensitive, creative, and feasible approach that integrates design, narrative, and interactive mechanics according to diverse creative goals.