Senior Game Designer (Mobile Strategy)

Placements24; Southampton; Hybrid; GBP 41,000 - 54,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary and performance‑drx

Medical, dental and vision insurance

Generous paid time off

Flexible hybrid work schedule

Professional growth opportunities

Office collaboration in Randburg

Job summary

Placements24 is recruiting a Senior Game Designer for mobile strategy titles, based in Randburg, Gauteng. You will shape core gameplay, systems, and progression, collaborating with artists, engineers, and producers to deliver engaging, commercially successful games.

The role requires a strong background in mobile design, monetization, and player psychology, with a track record of shipping mobile titles and mentoring teammates.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of professional game design experience, focusing on mobile strategy games.
• Proven track record shipping mobile titles.
• Strong grasp of F2P monetization, retention mechanics and UX.

Responsibilities

• Design core gameplay mechanics and progression for mobile strategy games.
• Create GDDs, wireframes, and prototypes to convey design concepts.
• Collaborate with artists, engineers, producers and other designers.
• Conduct market research and competitor analysis for mobile strategy trends.
• Analyze player data to improve balance, engagement and monetisation.
• Mentor junior designers and communicate design vision to stakeholders.

Skills

Mobile strategy

Game design

F2P monetization

Player psychology

Data analysis

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Game Design or related field

Tools

Unity

Unreal Engine

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading mobile game development studio, is looking for a highly creative and experienced Senior Game Designer specializing in mobile strategy games. This pivotal role, based in our vibrant Randburg, Gauteng office, will be instrumental in shaping the core gameplay mechanics, systems, and player progression for our upcoming titles. You will work within a talented multidisciplinary team, translating innovative ideas into engaging and commercially successful mobile gaming experiences. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of the mobile gaming market, player psychology, and the intricacies of designing compelling strategy game loops. This is an outstanding opportunity to make a significant impact on the future of mobile gaming within a dynamic and forward-thinking studio in Randburg, Gauteng.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and iterate on core gameplay mechanics, game systems, and player progression for mobile strategy games.
• Develop detailed game design documents (GDDs), wireframes, and prototypes to clearly articulate design concepts.
• Collaborate closely with artists, engineers, producers, and other designers to ensure cohesive game development.
• Conduct market research and competitor analysis to identify trends and opportunities in the mobile strategy genre.
• Analyze player data and feedback to continuously improve game balance, engagement, and monetization strategies.
• Champion player experience, ensuring intuitive controls, clear feedback, and satisfying gameplay loops.
• Contribute to game balancing, economy design, and live-ops strategies for long-term player retention.
• Mentor junior game designers and provide constructive feedback to the wider development team.
• Effectively communicate design vision and rationale to stakeholders across the company.
• Stay current with emerging technologies and design methodologies in the mobile gaming industry.

Requirements

• Minimum of 5 years of professional experience in game design, with a strong focus on mobile strategy games.
• Proven track record of designing and shipping successful mobile titles.
• In-depth understanding of core mobile game design principles, including F2P monetization, retention mechanics, and user experience.
• Expertise in creating detailed game design documentation and communicating complex ideas clearly.
• Proficiency with game engines (e.g., Unity, Unreal Engine) and associated design tools is a plus.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret player data.
• Excellent communication, collaboration, and teamwork skills.
• A deep passion for mobile gaming and a comprehensive knowledge of the current market landscape.
• Bachelor's degree in Game Design, Computer Science, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.
• Experience designing meta-game systems and live-ops content is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary and performance-based bonus opportunities.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance is provided.
• Employees enjoy generous paid time off and a flexible hybrid work schedule, balancing on-site collaboration in Randburg, Gauteng with remote flexibility.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development, including attending industry events, are supported.
• Join a passionate and creative team dedicated to pushing the boundaries of mobile gaming.