Senior Game Designer

Placements24; Vereeniging; Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay

Health insurance

Paid time off

Job summary

Placements24 in Vereeniging, South Africa, seeks a creative Senior Game Designer to shape gameplay mechanics, systems, and player experiences across upcoming titles. You will drive design direction from concept through delivery, balancing fun and challenge to engage players.

You’ll collaborate with artists, programmers, and producers, prototype ideas, document detailed designs, and playtest to refine balance and pacing.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Game Designer with shipped titles or significant contributions.
• In-depth knowledge of game genres, mechanics, and player psychology.
• Experience with game design tools and engines such as Unity or Unreal.
• Strong written and verbal communication; problem-solving and analytical skills.

Responsibilities

• Design, prototype, and iterate on core gameplay mechanics, systems, and progression.
• Create design docs with system breakdowns, feature specs, and user flows.
• Collaborate with artists and programmers to implement mechanics and ensure alignment with vision.
• Playtest extensively and refine balance, fun factor, and player experience.
• Mentor junior designers and contribute to a collaborative team environment.

Skills

Game design

Player psychology

Communication

Analytical thinking

Mentoring

Unity/Unreal Engine

Tools

Unity

Unreal Engine

Scripting languages

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking an imaginative and experienced Senior Game Designer to join their dynamic team in Vereeniging . This role is integral to conceptualizing and developing engaging gameplay mechanics, systems, and player experiences that define their innovative titles. You will collaborate closely with a multidisciplinary team, including artists, programmers, and producers, to bring creative visions to life. This is a fantastic opportunity to shape the future of interactive entertainment and contribute to a studio known for its creative freedom and commitment to quality.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, prototype, and iterate on core gameplay mechanics, systems, and player progression.
• Create detailed design documentation, including system breakdowns, feature specifications, and user flow diagrams.
• Collaborate with artists and programmers to ensure game mechanics are implemented effectively and align with the overall vision.
• Playtest extensively, providing and incorporating feedback to refine game balance, fun factor, and overall player experience.
• Mentor junior designers and contribute to a positive and collaborative team environment.

Requirements

• Proven experience as a Game Designer , with a strong portfolio of shipped titles or significant contributions to game projects.
• Deep understanding of various game genres, mechanics, and player psychology .
• Proficiency in using game design tools, scripting languages, or relevant engine capabilities (e.g., Unity, Unreal Engine).
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex design ideas clearly.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a passion for creating compelling interactive experiences.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance incentives.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance coverage.
• Generous paid time off and holiday leave.
• Opportunities for professional development and attending industry events.
• A vibrant and collaborative studio culture in Vereeniging .