Neel Akolkar – Valorant 404 Page

The challenge

To design a unique and engaging 404 error page for Valorant that resonates with the game’s aesthetic, engages users, and provides clear navigation back to the main content.

The goal

To design a visually stunning and thematically consistent 404 page that feels like an integral part of the Valorant experience.

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User Research

For the competitive analysis, I researched error pages from popular games like CS:GO, Apex Legends, and Overwatch to gather inspiration and establish UX benchmarks. I also considered Valorant’s target audience—gamers who appreciate high-energy aesthetics, clarity, and humor. In the ideation phase, I brainstormed creative concepts aligned with the game’s lore and visual style, incorporating in-game elements such as Agents or weapons, as well as humorous or lore-driven messages. I also focused on clear call-to-actions like “Return to Home” or “Check Match History.” For the design approach, I used Valorant’s vibrant colors, sharp typography, and high-tech UI elements, while considering interactive features like hover effects or subtle animations to increase engagement. Accessibility was a key priority, ensuring legible text, strong color contrast, and simple navigation.

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the process

Thematic Illustration:
A dejected Agent sitting amidst a chaotic backdrop (e.g., shattered Spike or fading map outlines), reinforcing the "404" theme.

Witty Error Message:
Example: “You’ve teleported to an empty map. Let’s requeue!”

Navigation Options: