Lead Gameplay Designer

Archetype Entertainment is a new game studio in Austin, Texas led by industry veterans from BioWare and other AAA studios. Archetype is a division of Wizards of the Coast (Hasbro). We are building a development team with world-class talent to create a new science fiction universe for our first multiplatform roleplaying video game.

Our goal is to create the greatest story-driven roleplaying games in the world.

At Archetype, we believe there will always be a place for story-driven roleplaying games that put the player at the center of an epic personal narrative with impactful choices. We are building games that represent the diversity of our audience. We also believe that game studios should empower top developers and challenge them with ambitious projects that are shaped by a strong, clearly communicated creative vision.

We chose Austin because it is a great place to live and work. Austin is the capital of Texas and is a fast-growing city with a vibrant music scene, cosmopolitan culture, a world-class university (the University of Texas at Austin - “Hook ‘em Horns!”), and scenic rolling hills.

The Role

Archetype Entertainment seeks an experienced and passionate Lead Gameplay Designer to help us build an unannounced next generation RPG.

The ideal candidate will have proven experience building polished, visually-compelling gameplay in other AAA titles, with a deep understanding of player psychology and combat systems design.

What You'll Do

• Own, architect, and implement major combat and gameplay systems
• Build and iterate on core combat systems: abilities, enemies, and progression
• Work closely with the Creative Director to ensure gameplay aligns with the vision
• Serve as a champion for our core audience
• Build and maintain documentation for all owned features
• Serve as the team’s knowledge bank for the gameplay vision and systems
• Regularly play the game, providing constructive feedback and troubleshooting
• Remain up to date on industry trends and competitive titles

What You'll Bring

• 10+ years experience as a Gameplay Designer with 3+ shipped AAA projects
• Extensive knowledge of the following: player controls, abilities, AI, progression, game balance
• Experience working in Unreal or other modern game engine
• Experience tuning sophisticated systems
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Self-sufficient and self-motivated, able to push features forward but also know when to ask for mentorship or help

Extra Credit:

• Experience with level design, encounter design, or layouts
• Experience with progression and difficulty systems
• Experience working on a new project from the beginning

Compensation Range, Currency USD:

• Starting Pay Range: $146,540
• Pay Range End: $222,248

In compliance with local law, we are disclosing the compensation range for this role. The range listed is just one component of Wizards of the Coast’s total compensation package for employees. Employees may also be eligible for annual and long-term incentives. In addition, Wizards of the Coast provides a variety of benefits to employees. Here’s a look at what your benefits package may include: Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance, Paid Vacation Time & Holidays, Generous 401(k) match, Paid Parental Leave, Volunteer Program, Employee Giving & Matching Gifts Programs, Tuition Reimbursement, Product Discounts, and more.

We are an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer

Wizards is committed to equality of opportunity in all aspects of employment. We are committed to making all employment decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, marital status, or any other legally protected status.

The above is intended to describe the general content of and the requirements for satisfactory performance in this position. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of the duties, responsibilities, or requirements of the position.

We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. If you are selected to move forward in our application process and need to request an accommodation, please let your recruiter or coordinator know.