Senior Game Designer - Systems & Mechanics

Placements24; Vereeniging; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Career advancement

Job summary

Our client, a dynamic game development studio in Vereeniging, Gauteng, seeks a Senior Game Designer specializing in systems and mechanics to craft core gameplay loops and progression systems. You will translate complex ideas into intuitive, engaging play and iterate based on feedback and data.

You will collaborate with programmers and artists to implement features, prototype mechanics, and refine player engagement while contributing to the studio’s overarching vision.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Game Designer with a significant focus on systems and mechanics.
• A strong portfolio showing design work, with detailed docs and implemented systems.
• Deep understanding of game design theory, player psychology, and user experience.
• Proficiency with game design documentation tools.
• Experience with Unity or Unreal Engine is a plus.
• Excellent analytical and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Design, document, and implement core game systems, mechanics, and features.
• Develop detailed design specs for new gameplay mechanics and systems.
• Collaborate with programmers, artists, and designers to ensure features are implemented as intended.
• Prototype and iterate on game mechanics to test player engagement and fun.
• Analyze player data and feedback to identify areas for improvement.
• Champion the player experience and cohesive game design.
• Contribute to overall game vision and project direction.
• Mentor junior designers and share design best practices.
• Stay current with industry trends and emerging technologies.

Skills

Systems design

Mechanics design

Player psychology

Game design

Portfolio

Tools

Unity

Unreal Engine

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic and innovative game development studio based in Vereeniging, Gauteng, is seeking a passionate Senior Game Designer with a specialization in Systems and Mechanics. You will be instrumental in crafting the core gameplay loops, intricate mechanics, and engaging progression systems that define our player experiences. This role requires a deep understanding of game design principles, player psychology, and the ability to iterate effectively based on feedback and data. Join our team in Vereeniging and contribute to the creation of memorable and addictive games that resonate with players worldwide. We are looking for a creative thinker who can translate complex ideas into intuitive and fun gameplay.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, document, and implement core game systems, mechanics, and features.
• Develop detailed design specifications for new gameplay mechanics and systems.
• Collaborate closely with programmers, artists, and other designers to ensure features are implemented as intended and to a high standard.
• Prototype and iterate on game mechanics to test and refine player engagement and fun factor.
• Analyze player data and feedback to identify areas for improvement and optimization.
• Champion the player experience, ensuring all design decisions contribute to a cohesive and enjoyable game.
• Contribute to the overall game vision and strategic direction of projects.
• Mentor junior designers and share knowledge of game design best practices.
• Stay current with industry trends and emerging technologies in game design.

Requirements

• Proven experience as a Game Designer, with a significant focus on systems and mechanics design for shipped titles.
• A strong portfolio showcasing your design work, including detailed documentation and examples of implemented systems.
• Deep understanding of game design theory, player psychology, and user experience.
• Proficiency with game design documentation tools and methodologies.
• Experience with game engines such as Unity or Unreal Engine is a plus.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication, collaboration, and interpersonal skills, essential for teamwork in Vereeniging, Gauteng.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, iterative development environment.
• Passion for games and a broad knowledge of different game genres.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive health benefits, and opportunities for career advancement within the Arts & Entertainment sector. You’ll be part of a creative and collaborative studio in Vereeniging, working on exciting projects with a talented team. We foster a culture of innovation and provide the resources for you to grow and succeed.