Senior Game Designer (Systems)

Placements24; LegKraal Gate; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical coverage

Performance bonus

Paid time off

Studio in Mahikeng

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Game Designer (Systems) for their Mahikeng studio in North West, South Africa. You will design, prototype, and iterate core game systems—combat, progression, economy, AI—ensuring alignment with the project vision and player engagement.

You will document mechanics, collaborate with engineers and artists, and mentor junior designers while balancing features to satisfy diverse player archetypes and narrative goals.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Game Designer with a strong systems focus in the video game industry.
• A strong portfolio showcasing design work, including documentation and implemented systems.
• Expertise in designing and balancing complex interconnected game mechanics.

Responsibilities

• Design, prototype, and implement complex game systems including combat, progression, inventory, AI, and economy.
• Create detailed design documents, flowcharts, and specifications for game systems.
• Collaborate with programmers, artists, and producers to implement designed systems effectively.
• Iterate on mechanics based on playtesting feedback and design goals.
• Balance game systems to ensure fair, engaging gameplay across player archetypes.

Skills

Systems design

Portfolio

Analytical thinking

Team collaboration

Player psychology

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Game Design, CS, or related field

Tools

Unreal Engine Blueprints

Lua

Python

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a studio renowned for its critically acclaimed RPGs and narrative-driven titles, is searching for a creative and strategic Senior Game Designer (Systems) . This role is central to designing and iterating on the core systems that define the player experience, including combat, progression, economy, and AI behaviors. You will be responsible for conceptualizing, documenting, and implementing engaging game mechanics that align with the overall vision of the project. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of game design principles, excellent communication skills, and a passion for creating deep, meaningful gameplay loops. This position is based in our vibrant studio located in Mahikeng, North West , and offers the chance to work on exciting new IPs.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, prototype, and implement complex game systems (e.g., combat, character progression, inventory, AI, economy).
• Create detailed design documentation, flowcharts, and specifications for game systems.
• Collaborate closely with programmers, artists, and producers to ensure the effective implementation of designed systems.
• Iterate on game mechanics based on playtesting feedback, team input, and design goals.
• Balance game systems to ensure fair and engaging gameplay across all player archetypes.
• Contribute to the narrative and world-building by ensuring systems support the overall theme and lore.
• Playtest and evaluate game mechanics, providing constructive feedback.
• Stay up-to-date with industry trends, emerging technologies, and player expectations in game design.
• Mentor junior designers and contribute to the team's design knowledge base.
• Champion the player experience and advocate for design decisions that enhance enjoyment and engagement.

Requirements

• Proven experience as a Game Designer, with a significant focus on systems design, in the video game industry.
• A strong portfolio showcasing your design work, including detailed documentation and examples of implemented systems.
• Expertise in designing and balancing complex interconnected game mechanics.
• Proficiency in game design software, scripting languages (e.g., Lua, Python), or engine-specific tools (e.g., Unreal Engine Blueprints).
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex design concepts clearly.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative, team-oriented environment.
• A deep understanding of player psychology and motivation.
• Experience with different game genres, particularly RPGs or strategy games, is highly desirable.
• Bachelor's degree in Game Design, Computer Science, or a related field is preferred.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary of R per annum , complemented by comprehensive medical coverage, a performance bonus, and generous paid time off.
• The role is situated at our modern studio in Mahikeng, North West , offering a creative and collaborative workspace.
• We provide opportunities for professional development, attend industry conferences, and foster a culture that encourages innovation and work-life balance.
• Join a passionate team dedicated to creating memorable gaming experiences.