Game Systems Designer

***This position is full-time in office***

GAME SYSTEMS DESIGNER

Sony PlayStation Studios is seeking outstanding talent to join our passionate and creative family in crafting our next high-profile AAA console title.

We are seeking a Game Designer - Systems based on location in our LA studio, who will report directly to the Principal Game Designer. The ideal candidate will possess a combination of solid gameplay systems design experience, exceptional game design skills, and a collaborative mindset, paired with a passion for games. Become part of the team creating our next AAA title that will stand apart from the rest!

We are a newly established AAA studio based in Los Angeles, driven by a team of seasoned industry leaders and experienced game developers. Our mission is to create the next groundbreaking AAA original IP while reimagining the development process with a lean and highly efficient approach. We're seeking talented individuals who share our vision and are eager to join us on this journey.

Responsibilities:

As a Game Systems Designer, you will be responsible for designing and driving development of the underlying systems that define how players interact with the game world. You will craft mechanics, progression, and reward systems that enhance the player experience, ensuring a balance between challenge, engagement, and fun. This role requires a deep understanding of game design principles, exceptional capacity for communication, strong analytical skills, and a passion for creating compelling gameplay experiences.

Key Responsibilities:

1. System Design & Implementation:

• Design, document, and prototype game systems, such as progression, economy, abilities, and combat mechanics.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure the systems integrate seamlessly with gameplay, narrative, and art.

• Create detailed specifications and flowcharts that clearly communicate the design vision to the team.

2. Collaboration & Communication:

• Work closely with other designers, programmers, and artists to align on the overall vision and execution of game designs.

• Act as a liaison between departments to ensure clarity and alignment in implementing systems.

• Present design ideas and concepts to stakeholders, incorporating feedback to refine the systems.

• Provide clear, actionable feedback to other developers on gameplay implementation at all stages of development.

3. Player Experience Focus:

• Anticipate player behavior and design systems that are intuitive, accessible, and scalable.

• Ensure that systems contribute to a cohesive and immersive player journey.

• Keep up to date with player trends and expectations, incorporating them into designs where appropriate.

4. Problem Solving & Iteration:

• Troubleshoot issues with game systems during development, identifying and resolving design challenges.

• Iterate on existing systems to adapt to new gameplay needs, technology updates, or creative direction changes.

• Contribute to post-launch balancing and feature enhancements as needed.

Balancing & Tuning:

• Balance game systems to ensure fun, engaging, and rewarding experiences for players across different playstyles.

• Use analytics, player feedback, and playtesting to identify areas for improvement and iterate on designs.

• Establish metrics to evaluate system performance and adjust parameters to meet design goals.

Qualifications:

• 3+ years of experience in game design, with a focus on systems design in the games industry, preferably AAA.

• Expert proficiency with design tools like spreadsheets, flowchart software, and game engines (Unreal is a plus!)

• Experience with and knowledge of cooperative multiplayer design principles and ideals.

• Strong ability to analyze game data and player feedback to inform system balancing and improvements.

• Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with experience working in multidisciplinary teams.

• A creative and proactive approach to solving complex design challenges.

• Deep understanding of games, systems, and mechanics, with an ability to deconstruct and evaluate their impact on player experiences.

• Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary team.

• Must love games and have a true passion for creating them!