Senior Game Writer - Narrative Design

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

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Paid time off

Retirement plan

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 in Durban is seeking a Senior Game Writer to craft narrative experiences for our client, a leading video game studio. You will shape overarching storylines, develop characters, and write dialogue that resonates with a global audience.

Collaborate with design, art, and audio teams, maintain script documentation, mentor junior writers, and adapt styles across genres. A shipped AAA title and a strong portfolio are essential.

Qualifications

• Proven track record of professional writing experience in the video game industry, with at least one shipped AAA title in a narrative role.
• Exceptional skills in storytelling, character development, and dialogue writing.
• Portfolio showcasing writing samples, including narrative design documents, dialogue, and story outlines.
• Bachelor's degree in Creative Writing, English, Game Design, or related field, or equivalent professional experience.

Responsibilities

• Develop and write engaging storylines, plot points, character backstories, and in-game lore for major video game titles.
• Craft compelling and authentic dialogue for characters, ensuring consistency in voice and tone.
• Collaborate with level designers, system designers, and artists to integrate narrative seamlessly into gameplay mechanics and environments.
• Contribute to the creation of narrative design documents, including outlines, beat sheets, and narrative flowcharts.
• Maintain and update game script documentation throughout the development cycle.

Skills

Storytelling

Dialogue writing

Character development

Collaboration

Verbal communication

Portfolio

Education

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

Tools

Unreal Engine

Unity

Scripting languages

Job description

About the Role Our client, a critically acclaimed video game development studio situated in the bustling city of Durban , is seeking a highly imaginative and accomplished Senior Game Writer to elevate their narrative experiences. This role is central to crafting compelling stories, memorable characters, and engaging dialogue that immerse players in our client's unique gaming worlds. As a Senior Game Writer, you will play a key role in defining the overarching narrative structure and tone, working closely with design, art, and audio teams to ensure seamless integration of story elements. We are looking for a visionary who can weave intricate plots, develop complex characters, and write sharp, impactful dialogue that resonates with a global audience. This is an exceptional chance to contribute to groundbreaking interactive entertainment and shape the future of gaming storytelling within a collaborative and innovative studio environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and write engaging storylines, plot points, character backstories, and in-game lore for major video game titles.
• Craft compelling and authentic dialogue for characters, ensuring consistency in voice and tone.
• Collaborate with level designers, system designers, and artists to integrate narrative seamlessly into gameplay mechanics and environments.
• Contribute to the creation of narrative design documents, including outlines, beat sheets, and narrative flowcharts.
• Ensure narrative coherence and consistency across all aspects of the game.
• Provide feedback and direction to junior writers and contribute to the overall narrative vision.
• Participate in brainstorming sessions and contribute innovative ideas for narrative content and player engagement.
• Adapt writing style to suit different game genres and target audiences.
• Maintain and update game script documentation throughout the development cycle.
• Research historical, cultural, and technical themes to inform narrative development.

Requirements

• Proven track record of professional writing experience in the video game industry, with at least one shipped AAA title in a narrative role.
• Exceptional skills in storytelling, character development, and dialogue writing.
• Proficiency with game development tools and engines (e.g., Unreal Engine, Unity) and scripting languages is a plus.
• Strong understanding of narrative structures, pacing, and player-driven storytelling.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams in a fast-paced development environment.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Bachelor's degree in Creative Writing, English, Game Design, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.
• A portfolio showcasing writing samples, including narrative design documents, dialogue, and story outlines.
• Passion for video games and a deep understanding of the interactive storytelling medium.
• Experience in leading narrative initiatives or mentoring junior writers is highly valued.

Benefits

• Annual salary of R.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous paid time off and company holidays.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development.
• Access to cutting-edge game development technology.
• Creative and collaborative work culture.
• Potential for bonuses based on project success.
• Company-sponsored social events and team-building activities.
• Relocation assistance available for qualified candidates.