Assemble the machine!

This project was created as a fun side piece for the weekly Articulate E-Learning Challenge, which focused on using merge shapes to design original graphics directly in Storyline. Instead of relying on stock images, every element in this build was handcrafted using Storyline’s shape tools, demonstrating how much you can achieve with just native features.

Concept & Storyline

The concept is simple but engaging:
The learner is dropped into a factory where a vital machine has completely broken down.
Their mission? Assemble the machine by solving riddles, selecting the correct parts, and placing them into position to bring production back online.

The activity blends problem-solving, storytelling, and gamification to keep learners engaged. 

Link to Review: https://360.articulate.com/review/content/8902c41c-3cc3-40cb-808f-2f572a34f0b0/review 

Core Features

1. Custom Graphics Built Entirely with Merge Shapes

Every machine part, from gears and bolts to levers and control panels, was built using Storyline’s shapes and merge shapes feature:

• Gears: Circles and triangles merged and subtracted to create realistic cogs.
• Pipes: Rounded rectangles and circles combined for smooth connections.
• Control Panels: Rectangles with button cutouts for a clean UI look. 
• Bolts/Screws: Small circles with cross-shaped subtractions for detail.

This approach kept the file lightweight while giving complete design control.

2. Riddle-Based Gameplay

The learner is provided clues to help them work out which part to drop.

• Example Riddle for a Gear:
  "I spin and turn, teeth sharp and wide,
  Without me, no other parts can glide."
• Once a part is dropped:
  • Correct answer: Satisfying click sound effect can be heard.
  • Incorrect answer triggers feedback with humorous or helpful hints.

3. Dynamic Sound Design

Sound plays a big role in immersing the learner:

• Voiceover: AI Audio generated directly in Articulate for narration and guidance.
• Opening Sound Effects & Boom Animation: Sourced from Freepik for the dramatic factory start-up sequence.
• Feedback Sounds: Created with AI Audio to differentiate correct and incorrect responses.

This mix of audio sources gives each step of the activity personality and helps reinforce actions.

While a full progress bar wasn’t built in this version, it would be incredibly easy to add later to show overall completion and add another layer of gamification.

 

Closing Thoughts

This project was a fun way to stretch Storyline’s capabilities and push myself to design almost everything from scratch inside the tool itself.
It’s a reminder that with creativity, even simple shape tools can deliver engaging, polished e-learning experiences.

While I didn’t get around to adding a progress bar, it would be simple to implement and would open the door to even more gamification options for future versions.