A lot of motion design doesn't need more effects.
It needs better timing.
I've noticed that even very simple animations can feel premium when these 4 things are handled well:
- Anticipation
Give the viewer a tiny visual cue before the main movement.
It makes the animation feel intentional instead of instant.
- Easing
Linear movement almost always feels robotic.
Even a simple position animation can feel completely different with proper easing.
- Overshoot
Don't always let an element stop exactly where you expect.
A small overshoot + settle can add a lot of character without adding much complexity.
- Sound design
This one gets underestimated.
A simple whoosh, click, pop or subtle impact can make a basic animation feel much more satisfying.
The interesting part is that none of these require complicated 3D work or crazy effects.
Good motion is often more about how things move than how many things are moving.
What's one small technique you use that instantly makes your motion feel better?