Interaction - Bachelor

Dailipupu

Dailipupu is a mobile game app where two people co-raise a virtual pet through small daily tasks. By sharing moments in a memory journal, it turns routine into gentle connection, helping long-distance partners and loved ones stay emotionally close without pressure or constant conversation.

the Problem

With the advancement of technology and the expansion of digital networks, long-distance relationships (LDR) have become increasingly prevalent in contemporary society.
Long-distance couples often face time differences, lack of intimacy, and the repetitive nature of video calls or texting. These routines can feel mechanical and unfulfilling, leaving partners disconnected despite frequent communication.

“How Might We reimagine digital connections so that long-distance relationships are nurtured through subtle, shared rituals rather than purely verbal or functional exchanges?”

research and user interviews

Dailipupu

Dailipupu is an interactive mobile game app built around the simple idea of fostering connection and closeness by not only talking, but doing things together over time. It involves co-raising a virtual pet over time through daily tasks like feeding, playing, and caring with the pet – this asynchronous and synchronous ritual allows for consistent interaction, transforming routine into something playful and fun.

The game is catered towards long-distance relationship couples, aiming to reduce the loneliness and communication fatigue that may arise due to distance. As opposed to digital communication that may require verbal, real time interaction, this is designed by developing a low-pressure, shared interactive prototype that sustains emotional closeness. Beyond that, this game also appeals to gamers, pet lovers, teens, young adults, and families seeking to stay connected in ways that feel meaningful without being intrusive.

key features

Home Page

This is the Home page where users will be able to interact with their pet. It also has access to the Task List page, Streaks page, Coin shop, and Profile page.

Daily Tasks

Daily tasks are the core shared ritual of the app. Both users are responsible for completing 3 simple actions such as feeding, playing with, or cleaning up after their virtual pet. These low-pressure tasks are intentionally designed to be small but meaningful forms of interaction. When one user completes a task, the other can see it, reinforcing presence, care, and emotional reciprocity.

Memory Journal

The Memory Journal archives all completed tasks and the responses attached to them; whether it’s a photo, short voice message, video, or written prompt. Instead of conversations disappearing in chat bubbles, moments are preserved like a shared scrapbook.
Users can scroll back to past days to see what they or their partner submitted, creating a timeline of small memories, emotional snapshots, and subtle gestures of care. This feature turns everyday interactions into tangible, lasting memories that help maintain emotional closeness over time.

Mailbox

The messaging system works like sending letters or postcards. Users can leave thoughtful messages, quick notes, and “mood stamps” that the other person can open in their own time. The app works to allow both users to communicate synchronously and or asynchronously. This reduces pressure to reply instantly while still enabling emotional communication.

Sarah Lim

Sarah Lim is passionate about crafting experiences that are visually expressive and functionally meaningful. With a background in Interaction and Graphic Design, she transforms gaps into cohesive, user-centred solutions; blending technology, emotion, and narrative to shape design outcomes that matter.