Developing design Standards for Handheld Gaming Consoles with a Focus on User Experience

Articles in Press

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Department of Industrial Design, Faculty of Art and Architecture, Islamic Azad University Science and Research Branch, Tehran, Iran

2 Assistant Professor, Department of Industrial Design, West Tehran Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.

10.22059/jdt.2025.398719.1159

Abstract

This paper explores and formulates design criteria for handheld gaming consoles with a focus on user experience. The literature review section provides a detailed examination of the history and evolution of handheld consoles, categorizing them into nine generations through a comprehensive table. It also highlights selected features of handheld consoles from each generation that either achieved notable commercial success or stood out for their innovative and unique design characteristics.
Drawing on the design history and the successes and failures of handheld consoles, the paper analyzes key factors in developing design criteria from three main perspectives: performance and usability, ergonomics, and aesthetics.
In terms of performance and usability, aspects such as the layout of control buttons, multiplayer capabilities, and attention to the diverse needs of users—including both left-handed and right-handed individuals—are emphasized. The ergonomic analysis focuses on the dimensions of the device and the placement of ports and connectors, ensuring ease of use and comfort during interaction.
Finally, the aesthetic aspects of handheld consoles and their impact on user experience and commercial success are evaluated. Elements such as shape, form, and color are examined to assess their influence on users' emotions, perceptions, and behaviors during interaction with the console.
The findings suggest that careful consideration of these criteria can significantly improve both the design quality and user experience of handheld gaming consoles, ultimately leading to greater commercial success for manufacturers.

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Journal of Design Thinking

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 26 October 2025

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