Grounded in the Uses and Gratifications Theory (U&G), this study examined the effectiveness of digital creative design in rural communication by integrating perspectives on user needs and design innovation. Using a mixed-methods approach that combined research through design, a focus group, and a survey, it developed cross-genre digital creative designs centered on rural themes. The research explored key factors that influenced the communication impact of these designs and assessed the effects of design elements—such as form innovation, visual aesthetics, information differentiation, emotional resonance, and information usefulness—on user motivation, satisfaction, and positive attitudes and behaviors. The findings revealed that information usefulness, information differentiation, and emotional resonance were the primary drivers of user motivation, satisfaction, and positive engagement. Visual aesthetics significantly enhanced users’ social and personalized satisfaction. While form innovation positively influenced entertainment motivation and satisfaction, it had a notable negative effect on social motivation. This study provided theoretical insights and practical recommendations for advancing rural digital creative design and communication strategies.