Aquatos
Aquatos is a cozy, nostalgic water-ring toss game reimagined for mobile, blending retro mechanics with modern charm. Set in vibrant underwater-themed stages, players aim and flick rings onto pegs while soothing visuals and music evoke the feeling of a hand-held toy brought to life. Each stage completes a diorama-style backdrop that adds character and story with progress.
Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
2006
E-commerce
$1.578 billion (2019)
5,000+
Challenge
Design a casual, feel-good game loop that’s instantly familiar yet rewarding over time. The aim was to encourage stress-free play while adding progression and collectability through unique environment props and music-based interactions.
Results
Developed multiple world themes (Arctic, Tropical) with original decor elements
Balanced win conditions across levels while preserving flow and relaxation
Created engaging flick physics using Unity’s input system and animation-based feedback
My Role
Core Concept & Game Designer – Built the ring flick mechanic, scoring system, and world progression logic while tuning difficulty to ensure smooth gameplay across sessions.
"I wanted players to feel like they pulled this toy off their childhood shelf and it still works just as magically."
Conclusion
Aquatos taught me the strength of simplicity when backed by polish. Designing progression without pressure made me focus more on feel, feedback, and the joy of interaction—elements I now always consider early in prototyping.