During her time at Atari, Laurel contributed to the design of several games, gaining practical experience in the game development process and experimenting with novel interaction mechanics.

Laurel co-founded Purple Moon, a game company dedicated to creating computer games for girls aged 8-12. Purple Moon games, like 'Rockett's New School', focused on social and emotional development, challenging traditional gender stereotypes in gaming and promoting inclusive gameplay. They sold more than 500,000 copies.

Purple Moon's approach to game design for girls had a significant impact on the industry, prompting other developers to consider the diverse needs and interests of female gamers. While the company eventually closed, its legacy continues to influence inclusive game design practices.