Creating something new is no small task – so, stick to what you know. Let’s take a look at how businesses can build upon existing things and put a twist on the familiar whilst still creating something wholly unique.
Combine the Physical and the Digital
Of course, things like online casino games in general build upon existing games and familiar themes to create a unique package, taking traditional casino games into the digital space. However, even within online casino platforms, there have been new developments that take this even further – just one example is Slingo. Slingo takes the rules of in-person bingo and combines them with the gameplay and mechanics of online slots, allowing them to take on themes not typically seen in traditional bingo.
Some Slingo games take this one step further. Take the popular franchise Rainbow Riches, for example – the Rainbow Riches Slingo game incorporates the Irish theme of the classic slot with immersive bingo gameplay. Not only this, but the game also utilizes symbols from a deck of traditional playing cards, bringing in the aspect of the card bingo variant, too. That said, Rainbow Riches Slingo doesn’t just use these cards as they are, incorporating the classic Joker along with a super joker and a devil card.
What this goes to show is that the elements of interactivity and digital spaces can be effectively combined to create a product that builds upon existing themes that are familiar to them. These products, services, and platforms can play upon physical elements whilst utilizing the added functionality brought by digital production. By keeping this in mind, this can help to develop something comprehensive, authentic, and immersive, whilst still appealing to those who like things to be rooted in reality.
Small Change Makes a Big Impact
When looking to create something new, another key thing to keep in mind is that your unique twist doesn’t have to be anything drastic. Research shows that using subtle variations can actually help to make bigger changes later down the line. Industrial designer and innovator Raymond Loewy once said that consumers have both neophilia and neophobia – in other words, they are curious about new things, but they are fearful of anything too new. Due to this, consumers tend to sway towards products that are innovative, but recognizable – or, as he puts it, the most advanced yet acceptable (MAYA).
Perhaps the best example of Loewy’s theory in action is in the development of train designs. Through extensive research, the designer knew that a bullet shape would be revolutionary for the aerodynamics and efficiency of trains. However, such a drastic change from traditional trains would not be accepted by consumers. So, he allowed consumers, engineers, and train crew alike to become familiar with his designs in line with Robert Zajonc’s theory on the mere exposure effect. Once the designs became familiar, the acceptance of the change became more widespread. Today, Lowey’s re-designed shape is now the standard for trains!
As you can see, there are multiple nuances to consider when creating something new. However, building upon existing themes and familiar concepts can allow you to create unique products that could contribute towards a change in perception over time.