User Experience design (also known as UX) is an important field in software development that maps user behavior onto actionable design elements in software. And at companies like Epic Games, it's used to help hone titles like Fortnite to better respond to user needs.

At GDC 2018, Epic's Jim Brown broke down the key ways that the company uses UX principles to improve its game design, and outlines some unexpected ways that the two disciplines can work together to improve the overall gameplay experience.

About the GDC Vault

In addition to this presentation, the GDC Vault and its accompanying YouTube channel offers numerous other free videos, audio recordings, and slides from many of the recent Game Developers Conference events, and the service offers even more members-only content for GDC Vault subscribers.

Those who purchased All Access passes to recent events like GDC or VRDC already have full access to GDC Vault, and interested parties can apply for the individual subscription via a GDC Vault subscription page. Group subscriptions are also available: game-related schools and development studios who sign up for GDC Vault Studio Subscriptions can receive access for their entire office or company by contacting staff via the GDC Vault group subscription page. Finally, current subscribers with access issues can contact GDC Vault technical support.