Video Game Designer (Gameplay Design & Mechanics Development) - Volunteer Role
Position Overview
The Video Game Designer (Gameplay) is responsible for designing and refining core gameplay mechanics, player interactions, and moment-to-moment experiences within game projects. This role focuses on how the game feels to play—ensuring mechanics are responsive, engaging, and aligned with the overall game design.
Key Responsibilities
Core Gameplay Design
Design gameplay mechanics such as Movement Controls, Combat (if applicable), Player interactions
Ensure mechanics are intuitive and engaging
Player Experience & Feel
Focus on moment-to-moment gameplay feel
Improve responsiveness and control
Enhance player interaction quality
Prototyping & Iteration
Develop and test gameplay prototypes
Experiment with mechanics and interactions
Iterate based on feedback and testing
Gameplay Balance & Tuning
Adjust gameplay elements for Difficulty, Responsiveness, Fairness
Improve pacing and player experience
Unity & Implementation Support
Work within Unity (or similar engine) to Implement mechanics
Test gameplay interactions
Collaborate with developers on functionality
Create and maintain Gameplay documentation
Mechanics descriptions
Ensure clarity for development teams
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Work with Developers (implementation)
Artists (visual feedback and alignment)
UX/UI teams (player interface and interaction)
Ensure cohesive gameplay experience
Playtesting & Feedback Integration
Participate in playtesting sessions
Analyze feedback
Refined gameplay mechanics accordingly
Problem-Solving & Constraints
Adapt gameplay based on Technical limitations
Scope constraints
Balance creativity with feasibility
Continuous Improvement
Improve gameplay quality over time
Stay current with game design trends
Enhance player engagement
Volunteer Commitment Expectations
Estimated Commitment: 8–12 hours per week
Flexible schedule
Participation in game development meetings required
Fully remote
Minimum Qualifications
1–3 years of experience in Game design Gameplay design Interactive systems
Understanding of Core gameplay mechanics Player interaction design
Preferred Qualifications
Experience with Unity or similar game engines
Experience working on game projects (academic, indie, or professional)
Experience in collaborative or remote teams
Core Competencies
Gameplay Design
Designs engaging and responsive mechanics
Focuses on player interaction
Player Experience
Improves gameplay feel and usability
Enhances engagement
Problem Solving
Adjusts gameplay based on feedback
Resolves design challenges
Collaboration
Works with developers and artists
Aligns gameplay with overall design
Attention to Detail
Ensures precision in mechanics
Maintains clarity in documentation
Adaptability
Iterates designs based on testing
Adjusts to evolving requirements
Work Environment
Full-time remote
Creative and iterative workflow
Important Disclaimer
This is a volunteer position and does not constitute employment. We are onboarding individuals who are ready to contribute immediately. Please only apply if you are prepared to begin within the next 14 days.