Place Finder transforms everyday location discovery into an interactive city exploration experience. Inspired by location-based games, users can discover nearby Spots, explore 3D characters, complete on-site missions and collect rewards through GPS, AR and camera interactions.
Place Finder is a mobile-first interactive experience designed to connect digital content, physical locations and user exploration through real-world interaction. The experience uses MapLibre to present a simplified 3D city map with GPS-based Spot discovery, while each location can unlock a unique 3D character and mission. Instead of simply browsing a list of restaurants, attractions or activities, users are encouraged to physically explore nearby locations. After reaching a Spot, they can interact with a 3D character, launch an AR camera experience, place or discover the character in the real environment, take a photo and complete the mission. The project was developed as a flexible campaign platform, allowing different locations, characters, rewards, categories and interaction mechanics to be configured through data rather than rebuilding the experience for every campaign.
- Accurate GPS Spot PositioningKeep Spot markers accurately aligned during zoom, pan, rotation and 3D map movement.
- Game-Like 3D MapSimplify map details to create a cleaner, more game-like exploration
- Mobile 3D PerformanceLoad lightweight Spot icons first and full 3D models only when needed.
- Cross-Device AR CompatibilitySupport different AR methods and fallbacks across Android and iOS devices.
- Stable 3D Character AnimationRemove root motion so the UU Bear can walk naturally in place.
- Mission-Based ExplorationTurn physical visits into interactive missions through 3D, AR and photography.
- Campaign ScalabilityUse configurable Spot data so campaigns can be updated without rebuilding the platform.
