Senior Game Narrative Designer

Placements24; Mossel Bay; Hybrid; ZAR 550,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model offering flexibility

Relocation assistance may be available

Professional development andConference

Employee wellness programs

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Game Narrative Designer to craft storylines, develop characters, and write dialogue for immersive games in Mossel Bay. The role balances in-office collaboration with remote work within a hybrid model, offering a dynamic environment in the arts and entertainment sector.

The ideal candidate will have exceptional writing skills, a deep understanding of narrative structures, and the ability to weave narrative into gameplay across diverse genres.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Game Narrative Designer or Writer with shipped titles in portfolio.
• Exceptional writing, editing and proofreading skills with strong grammar.

Responsibilities

• Develop core story concepts, plots, backstories, and dialogue for video games.
• Design and implement narrative systems including branching dialogue and lore delivery.
• Collaborate with designers, artists, and programmers to integrate narrative with gameplay.
• Create narrative docs, flowcharts, and communicate story details to the team.
• Coordinate with voice actors and cinematic teams to realize narrative intent in performance.
• Iterate on narrative based on playtesting and team feedback.

Skills

Creative writing

Editing

Proofreading

Narrative design

Storytelling

Collaboration

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Creative Writing, Game Design, Literature, or related field

Tools

Unreal Engine

Unity

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a critically acclaimed independent game studio located in the scenic region of Mossel Bay, Western Cape , is seeking a Senior Game Narrative Designer. This hybrid role allows for a balance between collaborative in-office sessions and productive remote work, contributing to the creation of deeply engaging and emotionally resonant video games. You will be at the forefront of crafting compelling storylines, developing intricate characters, and writing dialogue that immersizes players in richly detailed game worlds within the arts and entertainment industry. We are looking for a storyteller with a passion for interactive media, a deep understanding of game mechanics, and the ability to weave narrative seamlessly into gameplay. The ideal candidate will possess exceptional writing skills, a keen sense for pacing, and the ability to collaborate effectively with design, art, and programming teams. This position offers a unique opportunity to shape the narrative heart of innovative gaming experiences in a beautiful coastal setting.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and write core story concepts, plot outlines, character backstories, and dialogue for video games.
• Design and implement narrative systems, including branching dialogue, quest structures, and in-game lore delivery.
• Collaborate closely with level designers, character artists, and system designers to ensure narrative integration with gameplay mechanics and world-building.
• Create narrative design documents, flowcharts, and other documentation to communicate story and character details to the development team.
• Work with voice actors and cinematic teams to ensure narrative intent is realized in performance and presentation.
• Iterate on narrative elements based on playtesting feedback and team input.
• Contribute to world-building and lore creation, ensuring consistency and depth across the game.
• Maintain narrative consistency throughout the game development process.
• Mentor junior narrative designers and provide feedback on their work.
• Stay updated on trends and innovations in game narrative and interactive storytelling.

Requirements

• Proven experience as a Game Narrative Designer or Writer, with shipped titles in your portfolio.
• Exceptional creative writing, editing, and proofreading skills, with a strong command of grammar and storytelling techniques.
• Deep understanding of narrative structures, character development, and pacing in interactive media.
• Experience designing and implementing narrative systems using game engines (e.g., Unreal Engine, Unity) and scripting languages.
• Ability to write in various tones and styles appropriate for different game genres and characters.
• Strong collaboration and communication skills, with the ability to articulate creative ideas clearly.
• Experience working within a multidisciplinary game development team.
• Bachelor's degree in Creative Writing, Game Design, Literature, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.
• Passion for video games and a keen understanding of the gaming market.
• Ability to adapt to changing project needs and provide constructive feedback.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous paid time off and holiday leave.
• Retirement savings plan.
• Hybrid work model offering flexibility.
• Opportunities for professional development and conference attendance.
• Relocation assistance may be available for exceptional candidates.
• A creative and inspiring work environment in Mossel Bay, Western Cape .
• Involvement in developing award-winning game titles.
• Employee wellness programs.