Tricks in the shop screen — Game Designer · Pretender

Your fictional studio is making a puzzle game for kids, Bolhas. Review the in-game shop screen and flag manipulative designs.

Spot the issues · ~3 min

Your role

You're the game designer (in this game).

Your goal

A shop that is fair to children and parents.

What you know

'Dark patterns' are designs that push people into choices they wouldn't make if things were clear.

Limits

Selling things is OK; tricking kids is not.

Success looks like

Clear prices — Real money is visible.
No pressure — No fake urgency.
Parent consent — Parents approve purchases.

Skills you used

Fairness — Applying rules the same way for everyone.
Vigilance — Noticing warning signs early.

In real life

Game designers balance business and players' wellbeing. Consumer authorities in the EU are acting against manipulative designs in games, especially those aimed at children.

Game Designer

Invent rules and levels that are fun and fair.

Explore next

Software Developer — Build the apps and tools people use every day.
Architect & Urban Planner — Design buildings and streets people love to live in.
Teacher — Help others understand — and check that they did.

Keep exploring

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