We are looking for an experienced Associate Game Director to join our team and work closely with our Game Director to bring our vision to life. This role is central to shaping the moment-to-moment gameplay, leading the Combat pillar (3Cs, heroes, bosses, enemies, and encounters) as well as Level Design, while also acting as a trusted partner to the Game Director on the overall direction of the game.
What you will do:
- Partner with the Game Director to drive the overall game vision, and step in to represent or take over responsibilities when needed.
- Own and direct the Combat pillar, including:
3Cs (Character, Controls, Camera) - Core combat systems and mechanics
- Player character, bosses, enemies, and encounter design
- Oversee Level Design, ensuring environments and encounters align with the combat vision and overall gameplay goals.
- Manage and guide multi-disciplinary teams across design disciplines to achieve a high standard of execution.
- Provide clear feedback, direction, and decision-making to ensure consistency across gameplay experiences.
- Collaborate with other directors and leads (Creative, Art, Animation, Narrative / Fantasy, Tech) to ensure features and systems serve the overall game vision.
- Represent the game vision both internally and externally when required.
Who you are:
- 15+ years of experience in combat design with a proven track record on shipped titles, ideally in action RPGs or other games with dynamic combat.
- Deep expertise in 3Cs and moment-to-moment gameplay.
- Previous experience leading design teams, mentoring senior and junior designers, and providing creative direction.
- Strong understanding of encounter design, level design, and how they integrate with combat systems.
- Excellent communication skills, able to clearly articulate vision and give actionable feedback.
- Collaborative mindset, able to partner with other directors and adjust quickly to shifting needs.
- A passion for action games and a strong design sensibility for responsive, rewarding combat.
Nice to Have:
- Experience with cross-discipline collaboration (Animation, VFX, Audio, etc.) to deliver high-quality combat experiences.
- Experience in both AAA and mid-sized teams, with flexibility in approach.
