Macro to Micro

Concept & Research

Our project began with exploring sustainability topics, leading us to focus on microplastics — tiny plastic particles originating from everyday items like car tires, shampoo, clothing fibers, and plastic bottles.

We researched how these particles break down and travel through the environment, eventually returning to humans via food and water.

This research informed our concept: an interactive board game where players navigate a map, learning about the lifecycle of microplastics through quizzes, animations, and engaging interactions. The game makes the invisible journey of microplastics visible and understandable.

Design & Game Board

The game board visualizes the life cycle of microplastics from common objects. Players can explore different paths as they navigate the map. The board highlights decision points, illuminated paths, and animations showing the journey — from use and disposal, to fragmentation, to ocean circulation and food chain contamination.

The design follows a clean, modern aesthetic:
• Typography: Montserrat in two weights for hierarchy.
• Color palette: Bright colors (magenta, teal, yellow, coral) represent different objects, balanced with black backgrounds and neutral grays for clarity.

Quiz & Animation

Each section begins with a quiz designed to engage players and test their knowledge. After answering, players watch a short animation illustrating the next step in the microplastic journey. These animations visually explain complex processes in a clear and accessible way.

Interaction & Information

Throughout the experience, interactive elements allow users to explore various stages. Visual cues such as white outlines and pulsing highlights indicate interactive areas. At the end of each section, concise information boxes provide key facts. Players can also click an “info” button to read more detailed explanations.

Information Architecture

The project uses a layered structure:
• The map serves as the primary navigation.
• Each path follows a quiz → animation → interaction → info box structure.
• Framing elements ensure continuity: the end of one animation becomes the start of the next.

A consistent narrative helps users understand how microplastics circulate through ecosystems and return to us.

Final Outcome

Our interactive experience combines gameplay, storytelling, and research to communicate the invisible journey of microplastics. Players actively learn, reflect, and uncover the hidden impacts of everyday behaviors.