Lead Game Designer — Hybrid Work & Creative IP

Placements24; Polokwane; Hybrid; ZAR 700,000 - 1,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Professional development & industryCon

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Game Designer in Polokwane to guide the creative vision of upcoming projects. You will define mechanics, systems, and player experiences, leading a team to deliver ambitious concepts within a hybrid work setup.

The role requires 6+ years in game design with leadership experience, strong communication, and mastery of core gameplay loops. Unreal or Unity experience is highly valued as the studio shapes exciting new IP.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 6 years of experience in game design, with at least 2 years in a lead or senior role.
• Proven ability to design core gameplay loops and complex game systems.
• Strong understanding of player psychology and engagement strategies.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and leadership skills.
• Experience with game engines such as Unreal Engine or Unity is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Define, document, and refine core game mechanics, systems, and player progression.
• Lead and mentor a team of game designers, providing creative direction and constructive feedback.
• Collaborate with programmers, artists, and producers to realize design vision.
• Prototype and iterate on game features, testing for fun, balance, and usability.
• Ensure a cohesive and engaging player experience across all aspects of the game.

Skills

Game design

Leadership

Communication

Player psychology

Mentoring

Tools

Unreal Engine

Unity

Job description

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Game Designer in Polokwane to guide the creative vision of upcoming projects. You will define mechanics, systems, and player experiences, leading a team to deliver ambitious concepts within a hybrid work setup.

The role requires 6+ years in game design with leadership experience, strong communication, and mastery of core gameplay loops. Unreal or Unity experience is highly valued as the studio shapes exciting new IP.