About the Role

Our client, a prominent independent game development studio located in Kimberley, Northern Cape , is seeking an experienced Lead Game Designer to spearhead the creation of cutting-edge and engaging gaming experiences. This role is critical in defining the vision, mechanics, and overall player experience for our upcoming titles. The ideal candidate will possess a proven track record in game design, a deep understanding of game mechanics, level design, systems design, and player psychology. Working in a hybrid capacity, you will have the opportunity to collaborate closely with our talented development team in our Kimberley studio while also benefiting from remote work flexibility. We are looking for a visionary leader who can inspire a team, articulate complex design concepts clearly, and translate creative ideas into compelling gameplay. This is an exciting opportunity to make a significant impact on the future of interactive entertainment within a passionate and creative company.

Key Responsibilities

- Define and articulate the core vision and game design pillars for new projects.
- Lead and mentor the game design team, providing direction and constructive feedback.
- Design and document core game mechanics, systems, and player progression.
- Oversee level design, ensuring engaging and balanced gameplay experiences.
- Collaborate closely with artists, programmers, and producers throughout the development cycle.
- Conduct playtesting sessions and analyze feedback to iterate on game design.
- Ensure game design documentation is clear,



comprehensive, and up-to-date.
- Stay abreast of current trends and innovations in the video game industry.
- Champion the player experience and advocate for design decisions that enhance fun and immersion.

Requirements

- Significant experience as a Game Designer, with demonstrable success in lead or senior roles.
- A strong portfolio showcasing diverse game design contributions (mechanics, systems, level design).
- Expertise in game design principles, player psychology, and interactive storytelling.
- Proficiency with game engines such as Unity or Unreal Engine.
- Experience with scripting languages (e.g., Lua, C#) is a plus.
- Excellent communication, leadership, and collaboration skills.
- Ability to work effectively in a hybrid team environment, balancing remote and in-studio collaboration.
- Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to adapt to project challenges.
- Bachelor's degree in Game Design, Computer Science, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.

Advantages

- Competitive salary package commensurate with experience and leadership capabilities.
- Hybrid work model offering flexibility and studio collaboration in Kimberley, Northern Cape .
- Opportunity to lead design on exciting and ambitious game projects.
- Access to industry-standard development tools and technologies.
- Professional development and training opportunities.
- Creative and supportive team atmosphere.
- Potential for profit sharing and performance-based bonuses.

📌 Lead Game Designer (Kimberley)
🏢 Placements24
📍 Kimberley