From Crypto to Gaming: How a Top Blockchain Designer Reinvents UI for Fast-Play

01 Interview

Q: Can you briefly introduce yourself and outline the stages of your design growth? I am Liang Yulong, a senior UI designer who entered the internet UI field in 2014. My design journey spans five stages: (1) self‑learning and early exploration, (2) work at a startup where I progressed from rough drafts to recognized designs, (3) a stable period moving from a startup to an overseas company, during which I fell into a comfort zone and later broke out after marriage, (4) self‑reflection and publishing my work on domestic and international platforms, and (5) a development phase that led me into the blockchain industry and now to Kuaishou’s game department.

Q: How did you first get involved in the crypto ("coin circle") world, and what are the design differences between crypto and traditional internet finance? Blockchain is a new industry; entering it required rapid adaptation. I previously designed traditional financial products, which rely on character illustrations. In contrast, crypto products (exchanges, public chains, wallets) demand 2.5D angular illustrations, emphasizing security, speed, and a high‑tech feel. Visuals must convey product quality and align with the company’s philosophy.

Q: How has your design style changed moving from crypto to mini‑games at Kuaishou? The shift is dramatic: crypto design is sober, business‑like, and hard‑edged, while mini‑games require vibrant colors, lively atmospheres, and cartoon elements. I had to strengthen hand‑drawing skills and adapt to stricter product guidelines, focusing on visual restraint ("design subtraction") while avoiding over‑design.

Q: Should designers specialize deeply in one field or diversify across industries? Early in my career I worked on many design types (APP, graphic, web, H5). This breadth gave me a wide skill set but limited depth. At larger companies I learned the importance of data‑driven design, iterative optimization, and the risk of fixed thinking when staying in a single product line. Diversifying helps build adaptability, yet deep expertise is valuable in big firms.

Q: What advice do you have for designers participating in internal cross‑department projects like 58’s "water plan"? Such programs let designers experience different business lines, improve collaboration, and discover personal strengths. I encourage designers to seize these opportunities, explore varied design challenges, and use the experience to enhance commercial impact.

Q: Can you share your growth secrets or recommended books? I stay active in design communities (Dribbble, ZCOOL, UI China), regularly publish work, and conduct post‑project reviews. Improving communication—explaining design rationale and product impact—is crucial. The book "Breaking the Cocoon" has been especially influential for me.

02 Summary

Designers should master a niche while continuously exploring new domains, leveraging opportunities to broaden their skill set and deliver greater value to products.

Interview Recommendations

We thank Liang Yulong for his insights and will continue to feature outstanding designers. Readers can reply “Interview Recommendation” to the 58 UXD public account to get contact details and suggest future guests.