Designing the Chili's BurgerTime Game: A Behind-the-Scenes Look

When tasked with creating the Chili's BurgerTime game, my goal was to combine the nostalgia of classic arcade gaming with a modern twist that aligns with the Chili's brand. Here’s a breakdown of the creative process and the design choices that brought the game to life.

Inspiration

The original BurgerTime arcade game has a special place in gaming history, with its iconic gameplay and charming visuals. The challenge was to adapt this concept to reflect the fun, bold, and flavorful personality of Chili’s. The idea was to turn the game into a celebration of Chili’s signature dishes while maintaining the fast-paced, puzzle-like gameplay fans of the original would love.

Concept Development

Early brainstorming sessions focused on how to incorporate Chili’s menu items into the gameplay. Instead of generic burgers, players would assemble Chili’s new Big Smasher Burgers.

Visual Design

The visual style needed to capture the essence of Chili’s while evoking a retro arcade vibe. The characters were given a playful Chili’s twist—the protagonist, Chef Chili, dons a signature red apron, while the antagonists, such as mischievous jalapeños and rogue onion rings, added a fun and flavorful challenge. The color palette drew from Chili’s branding, with vibrant reds, greens, and yellows.

Launch and Reception

Since its launch, the Chili’s BurgerTime game has been a hit, resonating with both fans of the original arcade classic and newcomers. It’s been gratifying to see players engage with the game while also connecting with the Chili’s brand in a fresh, interactive way.

Final Thoughts

Designing the Chili’s BurgerTime game was a rewarding journey that blended creativity, technical skill, and a passion for gaming. It’s a testament to how classic concepts can be reinvented to create something both nostalgic and new. I’m proud of how this project turned out and hope it continues to bring joy (and maybe a craving for a Big Smasher Burger) to everyone who plays!