01.
Goal
This is my first iPhone app design, developed entirely as a passion project in my free time. The game is based on an old-school ‘connect all items’ puzzle – an old but highly addictive and brain-challenging concept. While very simple at the beginning, the game becomes increasingly challenging as players select higher difficulty levels.
02.
Gameplay
The gameplay is very simple. At the start of the game, there will always be a lit bulb in the center of the field. Surrounding this bulb is an array of bulbs that need to be connected to the first one. Each bulb can only be connected in one specific way, and each bulb has several wires for connecting to its neighbors. By tapping on a bulb, the player rotates it by 60 degrees, cycling through connection options. The game is won when all the bulbs are lit.
03.
Details
The visual language of the game is built around realistic incandescent bulbs glowing with a warm yellow light. For the interface, I drew inspiration from retro amplifiers and steampunk, adding as many small, realistic details as possible. The timer flips like an actual one, the switch is a functional toggle, and the difficulty indicator is a slider inspired by a mixer. Sounds and subtle animations are also part of the interface, enhancing its “realistic” feel.
04.
Results
Bulbs and Wires was my first experience designing an iOS application. It was released in 2012, and made its way onto thousands of iPhones. This is actually the longest-running project I’ve ever created. The app is still available for free on the App Store, challenging users’ brains for more than 12 years.
