Lead Game Designer

About the Role

Our client, a thriving studio within the arts and entertainment sector , is looking for a dynamic Lead Game Designer to guide their design efforts in Sheffield . This role is instrumental in shaping the player experience, from core mechanics to overall game progression and systems design. You will lead a team of talented designers, fostering innovation and ensuring the delivery of engaging, high-quality gameplay. The ideal candidate is a seasoned game design professional with a strong portfolio, a deep understanding of player psychology, and proven leadership capabilities within a creative, collaborative environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and implementation of core game mechanics, systems, and features.
• Mentor and manage a team of game designers, providing direction, feedback, and support.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive game design documents (GDDs) and specifications.
• Collaborate closely with art, programming, and production teams to ensure cohesive game development.
• Oversee level design, player progression, and user experience to maximize engagement and fun.
• Champion innovative game design solutions and conduct playtesting to iterate and refine gameplay.

Requirements

• Extensive professional experience as a Game Designer with a significant portion in a lead or senior role.
• A strong portfolio showcasing a variety of successful game design projects and contributions.
• Proven ability to design, implement, and iterate on complex game systems and mechanics.
• Experience with game development engines such as Unity or Unreal Engine.
• Deep understanding of player psychology, game balancing, and user experience principles.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Hybrid work model offering flexibility and studio collaboration.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous paid time off and retirement planning options.
• Opportunities to work on exciting and innovative game titles in Sheffield .