I’ve been gaming on Xbox since its first console launch in 2001. The console has grown considerably from a Sony Playstation competitor to a giant media entertainment system that also happens to play games. Throughout the Xbox’s lifespan, various treatments have been to the console’s user dashboard. What started as a bladed system has grown and evolved into the card-based UI we have today. It’s a testament to the team at Microsoft constantly innovating and responding to user feedback. Each new design may not be perfect, but it’s a step toward making the customer journey as simple and intuitive as possible.

Today’s episode of Design Behind The Mask explores the history of the Xbox Menu UI. We also touch on the Playstation, just to add a touch of contrast. Subscribe with the links on the left, tell a friend or two, leave a comment and let me know what topics you’d like to discuss.