Game Systems Designer

Enclustra; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 117,000 - 176,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a forward-thinking AAA studio in Los Angeles as a Game Systems Designer, where your creative vision and design expertise will shape the next high-profile console title. This role requires a collaborative mindset and a passion for gaming, as you'll work closely with multidisciplinary teams to design and implement engaging gameplay systems. Contribute to a groundbreaking original IP while enjoying a supportive and inclusive environment that values innovation and diversity. If you're ready to make a significant impact in the gaming industry, this is the opportunity for you!

Benefits

Medical Insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

401(k) Matching

Paid Time Off

Wellness Program

Employee Discounts

Qualifications

• 3+ years of game design experience, focusing on systems design.
• Expertise in design tools and collaborative teamwork is essential.

Responsibilities

• Design and prototype game systems like progression and combat mechanics.
• Collaborate with teams to ensure seamless integration of systems.

Skills

Game Design

Systems Design

Problem Solving

Collaboration

Player Experience Design

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Game Design or related field

Tools

Unreal Engine

Flowchart Software

Spreadsheets

Job description

Please Select Location · United States, Los Angeles, CA

Why PlayStation?

PlayStation isn’t just the Best Place to Play — it’s also the Best Place to Work. Today, we’re recognized as a global leader in entertainment producing The PlayStation family of products and services including PlayStation5, PlayStation4, PlayStationVR, PlayStationPlus, acclaimed PlayStation software titles from PlayStation Studios, and more.

PlayStation also strives to create an inclusive environment that empowers employees and embraces diversity. We welcome and encourage everyone who has a passion and curiosity for innovation, technology, and play to explore our open positions and join our growing global team.

The PlayStation brand falls under Sony Interactive Entertainment, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Sony Corporation.

*** This position is full-time in office ***

GAME SYSTEMS DESIGNER

Sony PlayStation Studios is seeking outstanding talent to join our passionate and creative family in crafting our next high-profile AAA console title.

We are seeking a Game Designer - Systems based in our LA studio, who will report directly to the Principal Game Designer. The ideal candidate will possess a combination of solid gameplay systems design experience, exceptional game design skills, and a collaborative mindset, paired with a passion for games. Become part of the team creating our next AAA title that will stand apart from the rest!

We are a newly established AAA studio based in Los Angeles, driven by a team of seasoned industry leaders and experienced game developers. Our mission is to create the next groundbreaking AAA original IP while reimagining the development process with a lean and highly efficient approach. We’re seeking talented individuals who share our vision and are eager to join us on this journey.

Responsibilities:

1. System Design & Implementation:
   • Design, document, and prototype game systems, such as progression, economy, abilities, and combat mechanics.
   • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure the systems integrate seamlessly with gameplay, narrative, and art.
   • Create detailed specifications and flowcharts that clearly communicate the design vision to the team.
   • Work closely with other designers, programmers, and artists to align on the overall vision and execution of game designs.
   • Act as a liaison between departments to ensure clarity and alignment in implementing systems.
   • Present design ideas and concepts to stakeholders, incorporating feedback to refine the systems.
   • Provide clear, actionable feedback to other developers on gameplay implementation at all stages of development.
2. Player Experience Focus:
   • Anticipate player behavior and design systems that are intuitive, accessible, and scalable.
   • Ensure that systems contribute to a cohesive and immersive player journey.
   • Keep up to date with player trends and expectations, incorporating them into designs where appropriate.
3. Problem Solving & Iteration:
   • Troubleshoot issues with game systems during development, identifying and resolving design challenges.
   • Iterate on existing systems to adapt to new gameplay needs, technology updates, or creative direction changes.
   • Contribute to post-launch balancing and feature enhancements as needed.
   • Balance game systems to ensure fun, engaging, and rewarding experiences for players across different playstyles.
   • Use analytics, player feedback, and playtesting to identify areas for improvement and iterate on designs.
   • Establish metrics to evaluate system performance and adjust parameters to meet design goals.

Qualifications:

• 3+ years of experience in game design, with a focus on systems design in the games industry, preferably AAA.
• Expert proficiency with design tools like spreadsheets, flowchart software, and game engines (Unreal is a plus!).
• Experience with and knowledge of cooperative multiplayer design principles and ideals.
• Strong ability to analyze game data and player feedback to inform system balancing and improvements.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with experience working in multidisciplinary teams.
• A creative and proactive approach to solving complex design challenges.
• Deep understanding of games, systems, and mechanics, with an ability to deconstruct and evaluate their impact on player experiences.
• Must love games and have a true passion for creating them!

Please refer to our Candidate Privacy Notice for more information about how we process your personal information, and your data protection rights.

At SIE, we consider several factors when setting each role’s base pay range, including the competitive benchmarking data for the market and geographic location.

Please note that the base pay range may vary in line with our hybrid working policy and individual base pay will be determined based on job-related factors which may include knowledge, skills, experience, and location.

In addition, this role is eligible for SIE’s top-tier benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, matching 401(k), paid time off, wellness program and coveted employee discounts for Sony products. This role also may be eligible for a bonus package. Click here to learn more.

The estimated base pay range for this role is listed below.

$117,100 - $175,700 USD

Equal Opportunity Statement:

Sony is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All persons will receive consideration for employment without regard to gender (including gender identity, gender expression and gender reassignment), race (including colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin), religion or belief, marital or civil partnership status, disability, age, sexual orientation, pregnancy, maternity or parental status, trade union membership or membership in any other legally protected category.

We strive to create an inclusive environment, empower employees and embrace diversity. We encourage everyone to respond.

PlayStation is a Fair Chance employer and qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records will be considered for employment.