Lead Video Game Designer (Progression & Systems, Gameplay, Unity) - Volunteer Le

Lead Video Game Designer (Progression & Systems, Gameplay, Unity)
The Donovan's Venom (501c3 Nonprofit)
Department: Interactive Media Studio (Game Development)
Location: Remote
Position Type: Volunteer Leadership Role
Reports To: Director of Interactive Media Studio / Game Development
Position Overview
The

Lead Video Game Designer

is responsible for designing and leading the development of core gameplay systems, progression mechanics, and player experience across game projects.

This role owns how the game functions - from mechanics and systems to progression loops - ensuring gameplay is engaging, balanced, and aligned with the overall vision.

Operating at the intersection of

game design, systems thinking, and implementation within Unity , this role is critical to transforming concepts into structured, playable experiences.

Key Responsibilities

Gameplay Systems Design

Design core gameplay systems, including:

Mechanics

Rules

Player interactions

Ensure systems are engaging, intuitive, and scalable

Progression & Player Experience

Design progression systems, including:

Leveling

Rewards

Unlocks

Create meaningful player progression and retention loops

Game Balance & Tuning

Balance gameplay systems to ensure fairness and engagement

Adjust difficulty, pacing, and rewards

Iterate based on testing and feedback

Unity Implementation & Integration

Work within Unity to:

Implement gameplay systems

Test mechanics

Support prototyping

Collaborate with developers on system integration

Prototyping & Iteration

Build and test gameplay prototypes

Validate concepts through iteration

Refine systems based on results

Design Documentation

Create and maintain:

Game design documents (GDDs)

System specifications

Mechanics documentation

Ensure clarity for development teams

Cross-Functional Collaboration

Work with:

Developers (implementation)

Artists (visual alignment)

UX/UI teams (player experience)

Ensure cohesive gameplay experience

Team Leadership & Direction

Guide and support other designers

Provide feedback and direction

Ensure consistency in design approach

Systems Thinking & Architecture

Design interconnected systems that:

Scale

Support gameplay loops

Enhance player engagement

Testing & Feedback Integration

Participate in playtesting

Analyze player feedback

Adjust systems based on insights

Problem-Solving & Constraints

Adapt designs based on:

Technical limitations

Scope constraintsBalance creativity with feasibility

Continuous Improvement

Improve gameplay systems over time

Stay current with game design trends

Enhance overall player experience

Volunteer Commitment Expectations

Estimated Commitment:

15-20 hours per week

Flexible schedule

Participation in game development meetings required

Fully remote

Minimum Qualifications

3-5 years of experience in:

Game design

Systems design

Gameplay development

Experience with:

Unity (or similar game engine)

Strong understanding of:

Game mechanics

Progression systems

Player experience

Preferred Qualifications

Experience leading or mentoring designers

Experience working on shipped or completed game projects

Experience in collaborative or remote development teams

Core Competencies
Systems & Gameplay Design

Designs engaging and scalable gameplay systems

Creates meaningful player experiences

Progression & Balance

Builds effective progression loops

Balances gameplay and difficulty

Unity & Implementation

Translates design into playable systems

Works effectively within game engines

Leadership & Direction

Guides design efforts

Ensures consistency and quality

Collaboration

Works across design, development, and art

Aligns systems with overall vision

Problem Solving

Adapts designs to constraints

Iterates effectively

Work Environment

Fully remote

Collaborative game development environment

Fast-paced, 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.

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