Senior Gameplay Programmer (Action RPG Focus)

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 1,482,000 - 2,470,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote work

Health insurance

Paid time off

Home office stipend

Professional development

Global team collaboration

Company matching 401(k)

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Gameplay Programmer for a fully remote studio focused on cutting-edge action RPG titles. You will design and refine core gameplay systems, bringing dynamic combat, character abilities, and tight player controls to life from your home office.

The ideal candidate has a strong background in C++ and engine architecture, with a history of shipping AAA or standout indie titles. You will collaborate with designers, artists, and other programmers in a remote-first,

Qualifications

• 5+ years in game programming focusing on gameplay systems.
• Shipping a AAA or notable title in Action RPG.
• Strong knowledge of engine architecture.
• Excellent communication for remote teams.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and iterate on core gameplay systems, including combat, character abilities, AI behaviors, and player progression.
• Write clean, efficient C++ code for a proprietary or industry-standard engine.
• Collaborate with designers, artists, and programmers to translate concepts into features.
• Optimize gameplay code for performance and memory usage on PC and consoles.
• Debug and resolve gameplay-related issues throughout development.
• Mentor junior programmers and participate in code reviews.

Skills

C++

Gameplay systems

Remote collaboration

Debugging

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in CS/Engineering

Tools

Unreal Engine

Unity

Profiling tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a cutting-edge independent game studio recognized for its innovative action RPG titles, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Gameplay Programmer to join their fully remote team. This role is integral to designing, implementing, and refining core gameplay mechanics that define the player experience. You will be instrumental in bringing dynamic combat systems, engaging character abilities, and intuitive player controls to life. The ideal candidate possesses a profound understanding of C++ and engine architecture, a passion for creating fluid and responsive gameplay, and a proven history of shipping successful console or PC titles. As a remote-first company, we foster a collaborative and communicative environment, ensuring all team members feel connected and empowered, regardless of their location. This is an exceptional opportunity to shape the core of a highly anticipated action RPG from the comfort of your home office.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and iterate on core gameplay systems, including combat, character abilities, AI behaviors, and player progression.
• Write clean, efficient, and maintainable C++ code for a proprietary or industry-standard game engine.
• Collaborate closely with game designers, artists, and other programmers to translate design concepts into functional gameplay features.
• Optimize gameplay code for performance and memory usage on target platforms (PC, consoles).
• Debug and resolve complex gameplay-related issues throughout the development cycle.
• Mentor junior programmers and contribute to code reviews, fostering a culture of high-quality development.
• Contribute to architectural decisions and propose innovative solutions to gameplay challenges.
• Proactively identify and address potential technical risks and opportunities within gameplay systems.
• Stay current with industry trends and advancements in game programming and engine technology.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.
• Minimum of 5 years of professional experience in game programming, with a significant focus on gameplay systems.
• Expert proficiency in C++ and experience with object-oriented design principles.
• Demonstrated experience shipping at least one AAA or highly regarded indie title, particularly in the Action RPG genre.
• Strong understanding of game engine architecture (e.g., Unreal Engine, Unity, or proprietary engines).
• Experience with performance profiling and optimization techniques.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and debugging skills.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively in a remote, collaborative team environment.
• Passion for games and a deep understanding of what makes compelling gameplay.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and remote work flexibility.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance coverage.
• Generous paid time off and company holidays.
• Home office stipend to ensure a productive remote setup.
• Opportunities for professional development, training, and attending virtual conferences.
• A collaborative, transparent, and inclusive remote-first work culture.
• Retirement savings plan with company matching.
• Direct impact on critically acclaimed game titles from anywhere.