Senior Game Designer (Systems)

Placements24; Soweto; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work between Soweto studio and/

Competitive salary and benefits

Health and wellness benefits

Team events and professional growth

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Game Designer specializing in Systems for a renowned game studio. The role focuses on conceptualizing and implementing economy, progression, AI, and combat systems, with collaboration across disciplines.

You will work in a hybrid setup, collaborating in the Soweto studio while enjoying some remote days, shaping core gameplay and ensuring balanced, engaging player experiences across ambitious titles.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years of professional experience in game design, with a significant focus on systems design for PC or console games.
• A strong portfolio showcasing designed game systems and their implementation in released titles.
• Deep understanding of game design principles, player psychology, and balancing methodologies.
• Experience working with game engines (Unreal Engine or Unity) is a plus.
• Experience working in a hybrid environment, demonstrating adaptability and effective remote collaboration.

Responsibilities

• Design, document, and iterate on core game systems, including economy, progression, AI behavior, combat mechanics, and character abilities.
• Collaborate closely with programmers to implement and refine game systems, ensuring technical feasibility and performance.
• Work with level designers and narrative designers to ensure systems integrate seamlessly with the overall game world and player experience.
• Conduct thorough balancing and playtesting of designed systems, gathering feedback and making data-driven adjustments.
• Create detailed design documentation, including flowcharts, spreadsheets, and written specifications.
• Propose innovative gameplay mechanics and systems that enhance player engagement and replayability.
• Contribute to the overall game design vision and strategy.
• Mentor junior designers, providing guidance and constructive feedback on system design.
• Stay informed about current trends and best practices in game design and player psychology.
• Participate actively in team meetings, reviews, and brainstorming sessions.

Skills

Systems design

Portfolio

Game design principles

Player psychology

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Game Design or CS

Tools

Unreal Engine

Unity

Confluence

Excel

Job description

About the Role

Our client, an acclaimed game studio recognized for its innovative gameplay mechanics and compelling player experiences, is seeking a Senior Game Designer specializing in Systems. This role is pivotal in conceptualizing, defining, and implementing the intricate systems that form the backbone of our games, from economy and progression to AI and combat. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of game design theory, a proven track record of designing engaging systems, and excellent communication skills. This position offers a hybrid work arrangement, allowing for essential in-studio collaboration at our Soweto headquarters while offering the flexibility of remote workdays. You will work closely with programmers, artists, and other designers to bring these systems to life, ensuring they are balanced, fun, and aligned with the overall game vision. Join a creative and driven team dedicated to crafting unforgettable interactive entertainment. We foster an environment that values creativity, iteration, and player satisfaction. This is an exciting opportunity to influence the core gameplay of ambitious new titles.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, document, and iterate on core game systems, including but not limited to economy, progression, AI behavior, combat mechanics, and character abilities.
• Collaborate closely with programmers to implement and refine game systems, ensuring technical feasibility and performance.
• Work with level designers and narrative designers to ensure systems integrate seamlessly with the overall game world and player experience.
• Conduct thorough balancing and playtesting of designed systems, gathering feedback and making data-driven adjustments.
• Create detailed design documentation, including flowcharts, spreadsheets, and written specifications.
• Propose innovative gameplay mechanics and systems that enhance player engagement and replayability.
• Contribute to the overall game design vision and strategy.
• Mentor junior designers, providing guidance and constructive feedback on system design.
• Stay informed about current trends and best practices in game design and player psychology.
• Participate actively in team meetings, reviews, and brainstorming sessions.

Requirements

• Minimum of 5 years of professional experience in game design, with a significant focus on systems design for PC or console games.
• A strong portfolio showcasing designed game systems and their implementation in released titles.
• Deep understanding of game design principles, player psychology, and balancing methodologies.
• Proficiency in documentation tools (e.g., Confluence, Word, Excel) and design software.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Strong collaboration and communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex ideas clearly.
• Experience working with game engines (e.g., Unreal Engine, Unity) is a plus.
• Experience working in a hybrid environment, demonstrating adaptability and effective remote collaboration.
• Bachelor's degree in Game Design, Computer Science, or a related field, or equivalent industry experience.
• Passion for games and a keen eye for emergent gameplay.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Hybrid work model offering flexibility between the Soweto studio and remote work.
• Opportunity to work on diverse and ambitious game projects.
• Professional development and continuous learning opportunities.
• Collaborative and creative work environment.
• Health and wellness benefits.
• Team events and social activities.