Senior Game Designer (Systems)

Placements24; Houston (TX); Hybrid; USD 42,000 - 66,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Stock options

Performance bonuses

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Game Designer (Systems) to define and iterate core game systems at our Randburg studio. You will balance combat, progression, economy, and AI while collaborating with programmers, artists, and designers to deliver cohesive gameplay experiences.

The role requires strong systems design expertise, 5+ years in the field, and proficiency with scripting languages like Lua or Python. A passion for player motivation and industry trends will help drive innovation.

Qualifications

• Strong portfolio showing systems design on shipped games.
• Minimum 5 years in game design with focus on systems design.
• Experience documenting game systems clearly.
• Experience with scripting languages (Lua, Python) is a plus.
• Understanding of balancing principles, statistics, and probability.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, collaborative team environment.
• Passion for games and player motivation.

Responsibilities

• Design, document, and iterate on core game systems, including combat, progression, economy, and AI.
• Balance game mechanics to ensure fair, engaging player experience.
• Collaborate with programmers to implement and refine game systems with clear specs.
• Work with artists and animators to ensure systems are visually engaging.
• Conduct playtests and analyze feedback for improvements.
• Develop design documentation with system overviews, flowcharts, and balance spreadsheets.
• Champion player experience based on needs and market trends.
• Stay informed about industry trends and emerging technologies in game design.
• Mentor junior designers and contribute to a positive team environment.
• Contribute to the overall vision and goals of the game project.

Skills

Systems design

Balancing

Statistical analysis

Communication

Problem-solving

Critical thinking

Education

Bachelor's degree in Game Design, Computer Science, Psychology, or related field, or equivalent professional experience

Tools

Lua

Python

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a critically acclaimed game studio celebrated for its innovative gameplay mechanics and engaging player experiences, is seeking a highly skilled Senior Game Designer (Systems) to join their growing team in Randburg, Gauteng. This role is pivotal in conceptualizing, defining, and iterating on the core game systems that drive player interaction and progression. You will work closely with cross-functional teams, including programmers, artists, and other designers, to ensure the seamless integration and balanced execution of game mechanics. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of game design principles, player psychology, and system balancing, coupled with strong analytical and communication skills. This is an exceptional opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking game titles and shape the future of interactive entertainment. We are looking for a creative problem-solver who can translate complex ideas into intuitive and compelling gameplay experiences.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, document, and iterate on core game systems, including combat, progression, economy, and AI.
• Balance game mechanics and systems to ensure a fair, engaging, and challenging player experience.
• Collaborate with programmers to implement and refine game systems, providing clear technical specifications.
• Work with artists and animators to ensure systems are visually and interactively compelling.
• Conduct playtesting and analysis to gather feedback and identify areas for improvement.
• Develop design documentation, including system overviews, flowcharts, and balance spreadsheets.
• Champion player experience and advocate for design decisions based on player needs and market trends.
• Stay informed about industry trends, competitor analysis, and emerging technologies in game design.
• Mentor junior designers and contribute to a positive and collaborative team environment.
• Contribute to the overall vision and goals of the game project.

Requirements

• A strong portfolio showcasing systems design work on shipped video games, demonstrating expertise in balancing and mechanics.
• Minimum of 5 years of professional experience in game design, with a significant focus on systems design.
• Proficiency in documenting game systems clearly and concisely.
• Experience with scripting languages (e.g., Lua, Python) is a plus.
• Strong understanding of game balancing principles, statistical analysis, and probability.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, collaborative team environment.
• A passion for games and a deep understanding of player motivations and experiences.
• Bachelor's degree in Game Design, Computer Science, Psychology, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance, a generous retirement plan, performance bonuses, and stock options.
• Employees enjoy a creative and dynamic work environment, opportunities for professional growth, and the chance to work on ambitious, high-quality game projects.
• The role is based in Randburg, Gauteng, providing access to a vibrant hub of innovation.
• We are committed to fostering a healthy work-life balance for our team members.

Join us and help craft the core mechanics that define unforgettable gaming experiences.