Senior Game Designer (Combat)

Job Description

Naughty Dog, a studio known for its critically acclaimed games, is seeking a Senior Game Designer (Combat) to join their team. The ideal candidate will have a passion for crafting engaging combat experiences and a strong understanding of game design principles. This role requires hybrid work from the Santa Monica, CA studio.

Role involves:

• Pitching, designing, implementing, and owning enemy NPC archetypes.
• Collaborating with AI programmers to develop NPC technology and behaviors.
• Working with animators to develop enemy locomotion, melee moves, and abilities.
• Conceptualizing, prototyping, implementing, tuning, and balancing gameplay mechanics.
• Communicating with animation, programming, and art departments.
• Writing and maintaining documentation for enemy archetypes.
• Facilitating playtesting and feedback sessions.
• Mentoring junior designers.

Requirements:

• 5+ years of industry experience in combat design and/or technical design.
• Experience developing action-adventure or shooter games.
• Experience with behavior trees or similar NPC AI concepts.
• Strong coding ability (Computer Science degree preferred).
• Proficiency in game engines and tools (e.g., Unreal Engine, Unity).
• Effective communication skills.
• Fluent in modern character action-adventure and shooter combat games.
• Knowledge of narrative structure.
• Strong leadership and mentoring skills.

Role offers:

• Competitive compensation and benefits package.
• Opportunity to work on high-profile projects.
• A collaborative and supportive work environment.