Lead Game Designer

[REVENUE SHARE | NO SALARY] Disclaimer this is a revenue share position, although additional funding may be available if we can secure it.

Your Role

As a Lead Game Designer, you’ll play a pivotal role in shaping the creative foundation of Shadows of the Lost. From designing and documenting gameplay mechanics to collaborating on systems like combat, companion AI, and environmental storytelling, you’ll ensure that the player experience is engaging, seamless, and memorable.

You will assist in maintaining and updating the Game Design Document (GDD), ensuring it reflects the latest vision of the game and serves as a clear guide for the team. Working closely with designers, artists, and programmers, you’ll help refine the intricate elements that bring our dark fantasy world to life.

About the game

Shadows of the Lost is a dark fantasy soulslike that takes the genre to haunting new depths, blending momentum-based combat, a gripping story, and a unique companion system. Set in a fractured world corrupted by an otherworldly shadow, the ruins of once-great civilizations echo with the lingering power of demigods who forged deadly pacts with mortal rulers.

As a lone adventurer, traverse desolate landscapes shaped by twisted myths. From a dark fantasy style frostbitten ruins of Norse sagas to the cursed tombs of Egyptian kings. Unearth relics tied to ancient powers, forge bonds with companions, and confront the creeping influence of the Shadows of The Lost.

https://store.steampowered.com/app/3107020/Shadows_of_The_Lost/

Responsibilities

• Assist in maintaining and updating the Game Design Document (GDD) to ensure it aligns with the latest vision and project needs.
• Collaborate with senior designers to develop and refine gameplay mechanics, including combat systems, puzzles, and progression.
• Design and document elements for level layouts, companion mechanics, and environmental storytelling.
• Work with animators, programmers, and artists to prototype and iterate on gameplay features.
• Conduct research and analyze player feedback to refine systems and enhance player immersion.
• Document and organize workflows, playtest results, and iterative changes.

What We’re Looking For

• Experience with creating and maintaining Game Design Documents (GDDs).
• Strong understanding of gameplay mechanics and player engagement.
• Familiarity with Unreal Engine 5 or similar tools.
• A portfolio or examples of work demonstrating game design expertise.
• Proactive problem-solving skills and the ability to adapt to feedback.
• Passion for the Soulslike genre and/or action RPGs.
• Excellent communication and organizational skills, especially for collaborative environments.
• Experience with Unreal Engine,
• History of shipped game.

Not Required but Nice to Have

• Familiarity with state manager systems for character actions (e.g., combat, dodging).
• Knowledge of Unreal Engine Blueprint scripting or basic programming skills.
• Experience working on high-fidelity or action RPG projects.

Why Join Us?

• Be part of a passionate and growing team dedicated to creating a high-quality, genre-defining game.
• Gain valuable experience and exposure working on a professional Unreal Engine project.
• Share in the success of the game through a revenue-sharing agreement.
• Flexibility to work remotely and manage your own schedule.
• Build friendships with peers.