I. CORE VISION

This proposal focuses on improving the entire UGC pipeline in Pixels, from creation to submission, approval, integration, and in-game usage. The goal is not to increase profit or quantity, but to make the system smoother, clearer, and more welcoming for new artists while remaining efficient for experienced creators.

At its current state, the system has strong potential but suffers from friction in key areas, especially submission clarity, approval feedback, and navigation. Additionally, the presence of AI-generated submissions undermines the value of real artists and discourages original creation.

II. UGC SUBMISSION PAGE AND USER EXPERIENCE

The submission interface requires major usability improvements. Managing large numbers of UGCs becomes difficult due to the current vertical list layout. A grid-based system, similar to a gallery view, would significantly improve navigation, especially for creators with many submissions. Adding filters for status such as approved, rejected, and in review would further streamline organization. An option to hide or remove rejected submissions would also help creators manage their workspace more efficiently.

The hitbox system is currently imprecise due to its reliance on manual dragging. Introducing input fields for X, Y, width, and height would allow for accurate and consistent setup, especially when submitting multiple similar assets.

Another issue is unreliable uploads, where files may fail silently but still appear as submitted. A reupload option is necessary to prevent unnecessary rejections after long waiting periods.

The submission page should also include visible reminders about maximum dimensions, copyright rules, along with a quick access link to official guidelines.

An official preview tool is highly needed. This tool should allow creators to test their UGC in different environments such as Speck Land or Terra Villa, and ideally simulate player interaction to validate hitboxes.

III. REVIEW AND APPROVAL PROCESS

The current review process lacks clarity and efficiency. Approval times can be long, and rejection reasons are often vague or confusing. Feedback should be precise and actionable, such as indicating issues with outlines, size, detail, etc. This would transform rejection into a learning opportunity rather than frustration.

To improve speed and quality, trusted community artists could be involved in the review process. This would reduce workload on the team while maintaining artistic standards.

More transparency would also help, such as showing estimated review times or queue status. Additionally, in-game notifications for approvals would improve communication.

A recognition system for creators could be introduced to highlight consistent and high-quality contributors, while ensuring that AI-generated content does not overshadow real artists. A reporting system with proof submission should also be implemented to handle plagiarism and copyright issues.

IV. CREATOR EXPERIENCE AND FEATURES

Creators would benefit from better tools and motivation systems. The addition of a testing environment, as mentioned earlier, would reduce submission errors. Including a direct link to guidelines on the submission page would improve accessibility.

Introducing achievements or in-game rewards tied to UGC creation could encourage continued participation.

A major feature to consider is an in-game artist museum. This space would showcase selected works from creators who have reached a certain level of contribution. Players could interact with displayed items to view the artist’s full collection and total number of creations. This would provide recognition and improve discovery.

V. IN-GAME INTEGRATION

UGCs should be better integrated into the game world. Currently, their placement in existing shops is not always logical. Moving them to a dedicated decor store in Terra Villa would improve clarity and immersion.

Separate counters should be introduced, one for minting UGCs and another for browsing them. This separation would help distinguish UGC content from standard in-game items.

Players should also be able to preview UGCs before purchasing to ensure satisfaction.

VI. PLACEMENT AND EVENTS

The placement system works well overall, but removing distance limitations when deleting UGCs would improve usability.

UGC fair events should be expanded and occur more frequently, as they are an effective way to showcase creators and promote discovery.

VII. DISCOVERY AND VISIBILITY

Discovery tools need improvement. Adding an in-game news panel or newspaper kiosk could highlight new UGCs, featured creators, and events.

Search and filtering options should be enhanced, including the ability to search by creator name and sort by popularity or recency. Creator name should be added under the UGC description.

VIII. CONCLUSION

The Pixels UGC system has a strong foundation but requires improvements in usability, transparency, and artist support.