Project Overview
Real time Customization
The LEGO Technic Porsche Formula E set presented a unique design challenge: creating an engaging AR racing experience for a pullback model that moves strictly in a straight line. Our solution leveraged a turn-based, segmented racing system, combining AR mechanics, precision timing, and authentic Formula E strategies to transform physical limitations into compelling gameplay.
What is LEGO Technic Ar?
LEGO Technic AR was 2 years of my life and some of my most fulfilling work. It was designed to extend the traditional LEGO experience beyond static models, bringing them to life through interactive augmented reality. Available on iOS and Android for both mobile and tablet, the app allowed users to scan their LEGO models and immerse themselves in digital environments, unlocking new gameplay mechanics, educational content, and challenges that deepened engagement.
The Challange
Turning Straight line speed
into a Dynamic AR Racing Experience
This project posed a unique technical and design challenge: creating a compelling AR racing game for a high-speed LEGO pullback model limited to straight-line movement despite the virtual track having corners. We needed to accurately track and integrate a rapidly moving physical model into a digitally augmented circuit, ensuring intuitive gameplay that remained engaging for players of all ages. Simultaneously, the experience had to authentically embody the excitement, precision, and strategic depth of real-world Formula E racing.
Design Process
Defining the vision
We began by creating a flexible and scalable framework, using wireframes to ensure intuitive navigation and seamless integration for future LEGO Technic models. From there, we refined our visual design, focusing on clear, high-contrast UI elements inspired by Formula E’s dynamic branding and Porsche’s sleek aesthetic. Incorporating real-time race overlays and interactive components, the final design delivered an engaging, strategic racing experience that balanced clarity, immersion, and interactivity.
Game Modes
Circuit Racing Mode
We designed two primary gameplay loops to capture the strategy and excitement of Formula E racing:
Segmented Circuit: Players launch their pullback car one segment at a time, making precise adjustments for changing racing lines.
Dynamic Power-ups: Strategically placed Fan Boost and Attack Mode added depth, challenging players to balance optimal racing lines against time-based bonuses.
This gameplay structure encouraged strategic thinking, precision timing, and replayability, creating a dynamic experience true to Formula E racing.
Battery Minigame
Drawing from Formula E’s strategic energy management, this arcade-inspired minigame challenged players to precisely wind back their car to recharge its battery. Players aimed to land within designated AR zones for optimal battery boosts, transforming a functional pitstop into a skill-based, engaging gameplay moment.
Track Design
We designed immersive Formula E-inspired circuits by integrating key architectural landmarks, balancing real-world Formula E assets with TAG Heuer and Porsche branding for authenticity. Each track featured iconic landmarks, urban-inspired elements, and high-contrast visuals, capturing the energy and precision of Formula E while optimizing for AR gameplay.
User Testing & Results
Round 1 - Initial Testing
To refine the experience, we conducted two rounds of user testing with two distinct age groups (8–16 and 28–40-year-olds). The initial round uncovered key improvement areas, such as onboarding clarity, enhanced power-up guidance, and minimizing downtime between segments. In the second round, we tested a more polished version of the app incorporating these improvements. Feedback from both age groups helped streamline the gameplay, enhance intuitiveness, and significantly improved user engagement.
Final Thoughts
This was a one-of-a-kind challenge—blending physical play with AR while developing a system to track fast-moving pullback models in real time. We had to invent new machine vision techniques to recognize the model and extrapolate its speed and position accurately within the experience. Through two rounds of user testing and continuous iteration, we refined mechanics, improved usability, and created a gameplay loop that was both intuitive and engaging. The result is a polished, immersive racing experience that authentically captures the spirit of Formula E while pushing the boundaries of interactive play.