GAME DESIGNER - MERGE GAMES - CONTRACT/PERMANENT - CHESHIRE, UK / REMOTE

ABOUT MERGE GAMES

Merge Games is a global video game publisher, developer and distributor based near Manchester, UK. The company publishes and distributes games worldwide for PC, consoles and streaming platforms, including Dead Cells, Streets of Rage 4, Spirit of the North, Cloudpunk, Aragami and Alex Kidd in Miracle World DX. Merge is also developing its own survival game, Smalland, in house. In 2021, Merge Games was acquired by Sweden-based Zordix AB (publ.)

Applicants must own a valid passport and have the right to work in the UK. To find out more see www.mergegames.com   

ABOUT THE ROLE

This posting is for an experienced game design role on a spectacular, upcoming title. 

The new IP requires a game designer to join a fantastic team of skilled individuals and help realize a rich, complex experience. As a game designer, you would be responsible for documenting comprehensive designs, facilitating development staff, reporting to production, and iterating design based on usability.  

The role can be contract based or a full permanent hire (if applicant is UK based). If contracted, the role would be for an initial term of 6-12 months. Renewal / extension is very likely depending on output. The successful applicant would be working full-time and remotely, on a contractor basis. Or full time and permanent if hired. 

APPLICANT REQUIREMENTS

• At least 1 3D title shipped on current generation platforms / Windows PC

• Broad and practiced knowledge of mechanical / technical systems design, level design, UX design, algorithmic / design tree documentation processes, open world design, narrative design, large data-set balancing and maintenance

• Strong skills in Unreal 4

• Multiplayer and singleplayer design experience

• Full game lifecycle experience

ROLE REQUIREMENTS

• Collaborate with other design staff to generate and maintain easy-to-read documentation

• Collaborate with development staff to help realize designs and turn them into truly fun and engaging experiences - both in and out of engine

• Liaising regularly with marketing and production departments and adapting / iterating design to fit market needs

• Ensuring the technical and UX quality of implemented designs

THE PERFECT APPLICANT

• 5+ years in industry

• Experience of integration and creation using the latest Unreal Engine 4 releases

• 3D modelling / skinning / rigging ability in any mainstream softwares (3DS Max, Maya, blender)

• Skill in Adobe Photoshop

• Previously held a senior / lead role in the same field

• Experience with / working knowledge of procedural tools such as Houdini

• Experience with content updates and post-release maintenance strategies

• Working knowledge of GitHub application and best practice

• Understanding of usability practices and willingness to engage in usability exercises

SALARY

• DOE - Negotiable - Competitive