Source: Apple Inc. Canonical content at https://developer.apple.com/design/human-interface-guidelines/designing-for-games. This file is a structured index of that content, snapshot 2025-02-02. Apple HIG text and imagery are © Apple Inc.; this repository provides organization and cross-referencing for AI agent consumption only.
Designing for games
Jump into gameplay
Let people play as soon as installation completes.
Provide great default settings.
Teach through play.
Defer requests until the right time.
Look stunning on every display
Make sure text is always legible.
Make sure buttons are always easy to use.
Prefer resolution-independent textures and graphics.
Integrate device features into your layout.
Make sure in-game menus adapt to different aspect ratios.
Design for the full-screen experience.
Enable intuitive interactions
Support each platform’s default interaction method.
Support physical game controllers, while also giving people alternatives.
Offer touch-based game controls that embrace the touchscreen experience on iPhone and iPad.
Welcome everyone
Prioritize perceivability.
Text sizes
Color and effects
Motion
Interactions
Buttons
Help players personalize their experience.
Give players the tools they need to represent themselves.
Avoid stereotypes in your stories and characters.
Adopt Apple technologies
Integrate Game Center to help players discover your game across their devices and connect with their friends.
Let players pick up their game on any of their devices.
Support haptics to help players feel the action.
Use Spatial Audio to immerse players in your game’s soundscape.
Take advantage of Apple technologies to enable unique gameplay mechanics.
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For the complete guidance, including worked examples and illustrations, see the canonical page: https://developer.apple.com/design/human-interface-guidelines/designing-for-games