Landing that dream role as a game designer is more than just being able to sketch out level designs, conceptualize gameplay mechanics, or animate pixel-perfect characters. It’s about demonstrating your unique skill set, creative thinking, and problem-solving abilities in the high-pressure situation of an interview.
Sounds challenging, doesn’t it? But fear not! We’ve got your back. In this article, we’re going to break down the most common game designer interview questions and give you sample answers to help you make a winning impression.
Whether you’re applying for a role in a budding indie studio or a big-budget development house, you’ve got to convince the hiring team that you’ve got what it takes to create the next chart-topping game. And let’s not forget the rewards that come with this role! In the UK, the average salary for game designers ranges from £27,000 to £70,000 depending on your experience and the complexity of the project. Meanwhile, over the pond in the US, you can expect an average salary ranging from $50,000 to over $100,000. A pretty big range, right? Well that’s just the way she goes.
So, let’s buckle up and dive into these questions, so you can stride into your game design interview ready to impress. Let’s get started!
Contents
- 1 Looking for More Questions / Answers…?
- 2 Game Designer Interview Tips
- 3 How Best To Structure Game Designer Interview Questions
- 4 What You Should Not Do When Answering Questions
- 5 “Why did you choose game design as a career?”
- 6 “Describe a game you worked on that you’re particularly proud of.”
- 7 “What is your approach to designing user interfaces for games?”
- 8 “Tell me about a time you had to collaborate with a team to complete a project.”
- 9 “What is your process when testing game mechanics?”
- 10 “What design software do you prefer to use and why?”
- 11 “How do you stay updated with the latest trends and technologies in game design?”
Looking for More Questions / Answers…?
Then, let me introduce you to a fantastic interview resource. Penned by the experienced career coach, Mike Jacobsen, this guide is packed full of interview tips. This 100+ page guide is packed with over 100 sample answers to the most common and challenging interview questions. It goes beyond simply giving you answers – it guides you on how to structure your responses, what interviewers are seeking, and even things to avoid during interviews. Best of all, it’s available for instant download! Dive in and give yourself the competitive edge you deserve.
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Game Designer Interview Tips
🎯 Understand the Company and Its Products
Before you step into that interview room, it’s crucial to do your homework. Research the company’s games, understand their design philosophy, their target audience, and their success stories. If you can demonstrate your understanding of the company’s products and align your skills and interests with their needs, you’ll already have an advantage.
🛠 Showcase Your Technical Skills
As a game designer, your technical prowess is essential. Whether it’s proficiency in Unity, Unreal Engine, or Godot, be prepared to talk about your experiences using these tools. Showing a good grasp of programming languages like C++ or Python can also be beneficial. Make sure you can clearly communicate your technical expertise.
👥 Emphasize Teamwork and Collaboration
Game design is not a solitary task. It involves working with different teams like programmers, artists, and testers. Highlight any past experiences where you’ve collaborated effectively within a diverse team. Show that you can accept feedback and implement changes for the betterment of the project.
📝 Display Your Documentation Skills
Great game designers are also great communicators. Demonstrate your ability to write clear, concise game design documents (GDDs) that effectively communicate your vision. If you have samples of GDDs or design briefs you’ve created, don’t hesitate to share them.
🎮 Bring Your Passion for Gaming
Show that you’re not just a game designer, but also a passionate gamer. Discuss your favorite games, what you learned from them, and how they influence your design decisions. Displaying your love for gaming can help the interviewers see your commitment and enthusiasm for the role.
🔄 Discuss Your Approach to Feedback and Iteration
Finally, be ready to talk about how you handle feedback and the iterative process of game design. Show that you understand the importance of playtesting, gathering player feedback, and making necessary revisions to improve the gameplay experience.
How Best To Structure Game Designer Interview Questions
In a game design interview, using the B-STAR method to structure your responses can help you to present your experiences in a clear and concise manner. Here’s how it applies:
B – Belief
As a game designer, your beliefs about game design principles, player behaviors, and industry trends can significantly impact your approach to game creation. So, when asked questions about your design philosophy or approach to problem-solving, start by expressing your beliefs. For example, you might believe in putting player experience first, or you may value innovative mechanics over high-end graphics.
S – Situation
Next, anchor your belief in a specific situation from your past experience. This could be a project you worked on, a problem you faced, or an opportunity you identified. You could talk about a time when you had to design a new game level under tight deadlines or when you discovered an innovative solution to a gameplay issue. The situation sets the context for your actions.
T – Task
In this stage, clearly define your role in the situation. As a game designer, you may have been responsible for designing specific game mechanics, managing a team, or conducting player testing. This component of your response helps interviewers understand your responsibilities and your capacity to handle the tasks relevant to the role you’re applying for.
A – Activity (or Action)
Next, detail the specific actions you took to address the situation and complete your tasks. Perhaps you led brainstorming sessions to generate new ideas, or maybe you collaborated with developers to implement your design. Be sure to explain your actions and decisions, as this shows your thought process and problem-solving skills.
R – Results
Finally, explain the results of your actions. In the world of game design, this could mean many things: successful project completion, positive player feedback, increased game engagement, or even recognitions and awards. Where possible, quantify your results to give a clear picture of your success. For example, if a game you worked on had a significant increase in downloads after your design updates, share those numbers.
Remember, the goal of the B-STAR method is to tell a compelling story that demonstrates your skills, experiences, and potential value to the employer. So, as you prepare for your game design interview, think about how you can use this structure to showcase your abilities effectively.
What You Should Not Do When Answering Questions
Do not avoid the question.
Do not describe a failure (unless specifically asked).
Do not downplay the situation.
Do not overhype the situation.
Do not say you have no experience with the subject matter.
Do not reject the premise of the question.
Do not have a passive role in the situation.
Do not give a one-sentence answer.
Do not overly describe the scenario and miss the action.
Game Designer Interview Question & Answers
“Why did you choose game design as a career?”
Answering “Why did you choose game design as a career?” allows you to display your passion for the industry. This is an opportunity to express your genuine interest in game design, the factors that drew you towards this field, and how your skills, experiences, or education influenced your career choice. Your story should not only reveal your love for the profession but also demonstrate how it aligns with your long-term career goals.
Answer 1
I chose game design as a career because I view it as a perfect amalgamation of technology, art, and storytelling, all of which I am deeply passionate about. Ever since I was a child, I’ve been captivated by video games, not just as a form of entertainment but as a medium of expression. I’ve always been amazed by how games can elicit strong emotions, provide immersive experiences, and create a sense of community among players.
During my high school years, I spent a considerable amount of time learning programming languages like C++ and Python. The concept of using code to create interactive experiences intrigued me, and I began experimenting with small game projects. This hands-on experience further solidified my interest in game design, as I was fascinated by the process of transforming abstract ideas into tangible gameplay elements.
Consequently, I pursued a degree in Computer Science with a specialization in Game Development. My academic journey was an enriching one, as I was able to dive deep into the various aspects of game design, such as graphics, AI, narrative design, and level design. It was during my time in university that I fully recognized the complexity and the creative potential of game design as a career.
One of the most memorable projects I worked on was a capstone project in my final year, where I led a team to develop a narrative-driven puzzle game. Not only did this project allow me to apply the technical skills I had learned, but it also challenged me to consider the player’s perspective, crafting an engaging story and intuitive gameplay. The positive feedback we received for our project was incredibly gratifying and reaffirmed my decision to choose this path.
After graduation, I started my professional journey in the gaming industry and haven’t looked back since. Each project I’ve worked on has been a unique challenge, requiring creativity, technical skills, and collaborative effort. I’ve had the opportunity to contribute to different genres, from action-adventure games to strategy games, each with its unique design requirements and audience expectations.
A highlight of my career was working on ‘Space Vanguard’, a sci-fi strategy game where I had a significant role in designing the game’s resource management system. I worked closely with other designers, artists, and developers, constantly iterating and refining our design based on player feedback. When ‘Space Vanguard’ was released, the resource management system was one of the features praised by both players and critics. This was an incredibly rewarding experience, seeing our hard work translate into a successful game.
In the grand scheme of things, I believe that games have the potential to shape culture and society. They can challenge our beliefs, educate, and provide a shared experience across geographical boundaries. This belief in the transformative power of games continues to motivate me in my career.
In conclusion, my choice to pursue a career in game design was influenced by my early fascination with video games, my passion for technology and storytelling, and my belief in the medium’s potential. The journey so far has been fulfilling, and I am excited to continue creating games that provide meaningful and enjoyable experiences for players.
“Describe a game you worked on that you’re particularly proud of.”
The question “Describe a game you worked on that you’re particularly proud of” aims to understand what motivates you as a game designer and how you approach challenges in the course of your work. It lets you share an accomplishment in your career that resonates with you. This is your chance to highlight a successful project and the specific role you played, focusing on the problem-solving abilities, design skills, and team collaboration that contributed to the success of the game.
Answer 1
One game that I’m particularly proud of is a mobile platformer called ‘Galactic Hop’. I was the lead game designer at Astro Studios when we undertook this project. This game stands out to me not just because it was a commercial success, but also due to the unique design challenges it posed and how we, as a team, managed to overcome them.
The game’s main concept was relatively straightforward: it was a platformer game where the player had to navigate through various intergalactic levels by hopping across platforms. The challenge was to differentiate our game from a sea of similar games in the market. We wanted to create a game that was easy to pick up but hard to master, something that had depth and rewarded skillful play.
To achieve this, we decided to introduce a unique mechanic: a gravity-based system that would affect the trajectory of the player’s jumps. The idea was to create dynamic gameplay that would require players to strategize their moves and constantly adapt to changing situations.
Implementing this gravity mechanic wasn’t easy. It was a complex process that involved multiple iterations, rigorous playtesting, and constant tweaking to ensure that it felt intuitive yet challenging. I worked closely with the programming team to define the game physics and with the art team to create visual cues that would help players understand and predict the effects of gravity.
In addition to the gravity mechanic, I’m proud of the level design in ‘Galactic Hop’. We created a variety of levels, each with its unique set of challenges, to keep the gameplay fresh and engaging. I worked on designing these levels, creating a balanced progression system that gradually introduced new obstacles and mechanics as players progressed through the game.
When ‘Galactic Hop’ was released, it was well-received by both players and critics. The unique gravity mechanic was praised for adding depth and strategy to the gameplay, and the varied level design was appreciated for keeping the game exciting. The game saw a high number of downloads and received positive ratings, which was incredibly rewarding.
Working on ‘Galactic Hop’ was a valuable experience as it challenged me to think creatively and pushed me to deliver a unique and engaging gameplay experience. It exemplified the importance of iteration, testing, and team collaboration in game design, lessons that I’ve carried forward into my subsequent projects. I believe that the skills and experiences I gained from this project would be a valuable asset in any game design role.
“What is your approach to designing user interfaces for games?”
In response to “What is your approach to designing user interfaces for games?”, you should outline your methodology and demonstrate a sound understanding of usability and aesthetics in game design. This question is an opportunity to display your critical thinking and design process, including considerations for player experience, accessibility, and the harmonious blend of visual elements with gameplay mechanics.
Answer 1
My approach to designing user interfaces (UI) for games is an amalgamation of user-centered design principles, rigorous playtesting, and an understanding of the game’s aesthetic and thematic elements. In essence, I believe that a well-designed UI should be intuitive, visually cohesive, and should enhance rather than distract from the gameplay experience.
To begin with, I start by understanding the target audience and their needs. Who are our players? What are their gaming habits and preferences? How experienced are they with this type of game? This forms the foundation for design decisions, ensuring that the UI is tailored to meet the users’ expectations and abilities. For example, a UI for a complex strategy game aimed at hardcore gamers would be different from a casual mobile game targeting a broader audience.
Next, I sketch out rough wireframes for the different UI elements like menus, health bars, inventories, etc., considering the information that needs to be displayed and the actions that players need to perform. At this stage, I also consider how the UI interacts with the gameplay mechanics. For instance, if the game is a fast-paced action game, I would aim for a minimalistic UI that doesn’t clutter the screen and distract the player.
In tandem with the UI layout, I consider the visual design. It’s important that the UI aligns with the game’s art style and thematic elements. The UI isn’t just a functional element; it’s an integral part of the game’s visual identity.
Once the initial design is done, the next step is playtesting. Testing the UI with real players is invaluable. It helps identify usability issues, gauge the intuitiveness of the design, and gather feedback for improvements. I believe in iterative design – refining and polishing the UI based on feedback until it meets the desired standards of usability and aesthetics.
Moreover, I place a strong emphasis on accessibility in my UI design approach. This includes considerations for color blindness, font sizes, and options to customize the UI. Everyone should be able to enjoy the game, and an accessible UI is a big part of that.
In summary, my approach to game UI design is a blend of user-centered design, aesthetic harmony, and an iterative process fueled by playtesting and user feedback. I firmly believe that a well-designed UI is crucial in making a game enjoyable and accessible to all players.
“Tell me about a time you had to collaborate with a team to complete a project.”
When asked, “Tell me about a time you had to collaborate with a team to complete a project,” it is important to highlight your teamwork skills and experiences. Your answer should showcase your ability to collaborate with others, including the ability to handle disagreements, contribute ideas, and work towards achieving a common goal. Remember to highlight the project’s success and how your collaboration helped achieve it.
Answer 1
One of the most memorable instances of team collaboration in my career was during the development of a mobile action RPG game called “Heroes of Aether”. The project was ambitious and complex, encompassing various challenges such as intricate game mechanics, demanding graphics, and a massive world-building effort.
At the outset, our team of designers, artists, programmers, and story writers sat down to develop a shared vision for the game. We each contributed to what we believed the game should look like, feel like, and how it should resonate with players. It was important for us to ensure that everyone was on the same page, despite the varying perspectives and specialties. I took on the role of a game designer, focusing on core gameplay mechanics and level design.
As the project advanced, there were many instances of collaboration. We had numerous design sessions where the team would gather to brainstorm, critique, and refine ideas. It was during one of these sessions that we conceived the unique combo-based combat system of our game, which turned out to be a big hit with players.
However, collaboration wasn’t always smooth. There were disagreements, especially between the design and programming teams due to feasibility concerns. I recall an instance when the designers wanted to incorporate a certain environmental interaction mechanic. Still, the programmers were concerned about the performance implications on mobile devices. This required both teams to come together, understand each other’s constraints, and negotiate a middle ground. It was a challenging process, but it improved our mutual understanding and helped create a more balanced and optimized game.
One key aspect of our collaboration was the regular feedback and iteration cycles. Every week we would have playtesting sessions where everyone would play the game and provide feedback. This cross-disciplinary feedback was invaluable, as it provided diverse perspectives that helped us refine and improve the game constantly.
Ultimately, our efforts paid off when “Heroes of Aether” was released to highly positive reviews and millions of downloads. The game was praised for its fluid combat, engaging gameplay, and stunning world design – a testament to our collaborative efforts. Through this experience, I learned the importance of open communication, respect for diverse perspectives, and the power of collaboration in creating a successful game.
“What is your process when testing game mechanics?”
Answering “What is your process when testing game mechanics?” will display your practical knowledge of game development. It is an opportunity to explain your approach to ensuring game mechanics are functional and enjoyable. Your response should highlight your understanding of the iterative process of game design, which includes designing, testing, and refining game mechanics based on player feedback and your own observations.
Answer 1
Testing game mechanics is a crucial part of game design. It’s a complex process that requires a careful balance between creativity, technical proficiency, and an understanding of player psychology.
My testing process starts with establishing clear parameters for each mechanic. This typically includes defining its role in the gameplay, expected player interaction, and how it fits into the broader game experience. Having this understanding aids in creating targeted tests that accurately evaluate the mechanic’s function and player impact.
Once I have a prototype ready, I commence internal testing. This involves playing the game myself, experimenting with the mechanics, and evaluating if they work as intended. I use this phase to catch any immediate issues, such as bugs, unclear player instructions, or non-intuitive interactions.
After making initial adjustments based on my own playtesting, I bring in others for fresh perspectives. This could be other members of the development team or colleagues not directly involved in the project. They provide valuable feedback about the feel and effectiveness of the mechanic, offering viewpoints that might differ from my own due to their varied gaming experiences and preferences.
However, even after internal testing, it’s still essential to gain real player feedback. Closed alpha or beta tests are excellent ways to achieve this. I carefully monitor player behavior during these tests, paying attention to how they interact with the mechanics. Are players using the mechanic as intended? Are they encountering problems or finding alternate uses we didn’t anticipate? Gathering and analyzing this data is invaluable in identifying and understanding any issues that weren’t evident during internal testing.
In addition to observing player behavior, direct player feedback is an important part of the testing process. Surveys, forums, and direct communication can provide insights into players’ thoughts and feelings about the game mechanics. This feedback can reveal whether the mechanics are enjoyable and engaging, or if they’re causing frustration or confusion.
Finally, after gathering all this information, the iterative refinement process begins. We identify what changes need to be made, implement those changes, and then test again. This cycle continues until we are satisfied that the mechanic functions well, contributes positively to the gameplay experience, and aligns with our design goals.
As an example, while working on our action-adventure game “Spectral Boundaries”, we noticed during beta testing that players were struggling with a shadow-shifting mechanic. Despite working as intended technically, players found it confusing and disruptive to the flow of gameplay. We took this feedback, reworked the mechanic to make it more intuitive, and reintroduced it in another round of testing. The response was significantly more positive, showing the value of comprehensive testing and responsive iteration in game design.
This process underscores the importance of being flexible and responsive as a game designer. Sometimes a mechanic that seems perfect in theory or during development doesn’t resonate with the players. It’s crucial to be willing to adjust, adapt, and keep refining until we find what works best.
“What design software do you prefer to use and why?”
The question “What design software do you prefer to use and why?” helps the interviewer understand your technical competence and preferences. Your answer can reveal your proficiency with popular game design tools and why you find them effective. While discussing the features of your preferred software, be sure to highlight how these tools enhance your productivity and contribute to creating engaging game experiences.
Answer 1
In my career as a game designer, I’ve had the opportunity to work with a wide range of design software. Each tool has its strengths and is well-suited to specific tasks or types of games. However, if I had to choose one that I particularly prefer, it would be Unity, primarily due to its versatility, supportive community, and compatibility with multiple platforms.
Unity is a powerful and robust game engine that allows for both 2D and 3D game development. The ability to switch between these dimensions gives me the flexibility to work on a broad spectrum of projects, from simple mobile games to more complex console games. Moreover, it provides an intuitive interface that, once familiar with, significantly enhances my efficiency in designing and prototyping game mechanics.
One of the standout features of Unity, in my opinion, is its visual scripting system, Unity Visual Scripting. For someone like me, who started as a designer and gradually picked up programming, this is a fantastic feature. It allows me to quickly prototype and test mechanics without getting too caught up in coding, thereby speeding up the iterative design process.
Unity’s compatibility with multiple platforms is another reason I prefer it. The ability to design a game and then deploy it across different platforms—PC, consoles, mobile, and even VR—is a massive advantage. It maximizes the potential audience for the game and ensures that I can work on a wide variety of projects.
The Unity Asset Store is a treasure trove that has frequently saved me time. Whether I need a quick placeholder for prototyping or a sophisticated shader package, the Asset Store often has something that fits the bill. It’s also a great source of inspiration, showcasing what other creators have accomplished with the engine.
Additionally, Unity has a vast and active user community. There are numerous forums, tutorials, and resources available, which have been incredibly helpful whenever I’ve encountered a problem or wanted to learn a new technique. This support system, along with Unity’s comprehensive official documentation, makes problem-solving and continuous learning much easier.
Lastly, Unity’s commitment to keeping up with the latest technological trends is commendable. They continually update the engine and introduce new features, like DOTS (Data-Oriented Technology Stack) and the Entity Component System, which allow for high-performance and resource-efficient games. These continuous advancements ensure that I am always at the forefront of game technology when using Unity.
In conclusion, my preference for Unity stems from its versatile capabilities, user-friendly features, extensive support system, and continuous advancements. It’s a comprehensive tool that caters to most of my game design needs and allows me to focus on creating the best gaming experiences possible.
“How do you stay updated with the latest trends and technologies in game design?”
Responding to “How do you stay updated with the latest trends and technologies in game design?” demonstrates your commitment to continuous learning and industry awareness. This question offers an opportunity to share resources like blogs, podcasts, forums, or industry events you follow to stay abreast of new developments. Your response could also reflect how you integrate this knowledge into your work to create contemporary and engaging games.
Answer 1
Staying updated with the latest trends and technologies in game design is a non-negotiable aspect of being a game designer in today’s rapidly evolving industry. I follow a multi-pronged approach to ensure I’m always on top of the latest developments.
Firstly, I’m an avid gamer myself. Playing a variety of games across different platforms and genres helps me experience firsthand what’s trending in the industry. I find it particularly useful to analyze popular games and dissect what makes them successful. This not only helps me understand current trends but also offers insights into innovative game mechanics, narrative styles, and technologies being used.
Secondly, I make it a point to read widely. I follow several online blogs and websites dedicated to game design, such as Gamasutra, Kotaku, and Game Developer. I also subscribe to several newsletters, like the one from GameDesigning.org, which curates insightful articles from around the web. I find these resources incredibly useful for staying updated on industry news and for deep-dives into specific game design topics.
Podcasts and YouTube channels are another great source of information. I regularly listen to the Game Maker’s Notebook, a podcast by the Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences, where they interview leading game designers. Watching GDC (Game Developers Conference) talks on YouTube is also a part of my learning routine. These talks offer invaluable insights into the experiences and learnings of industry professionals.
Participating in game jams like the Global Game Jam and Ludum Dare is another way I keep my finger on the pulse. These events are not just about creating a game; they provide opportunities to connect with other game designers and developers, allowing me to learn from their experiences and perspectives.
Attending industry conferences and expos, such as GDC, E3, and PAX, is also a valuable part of my learning process. These events often showcase upcoming technologies and trends. They also offer networking opportunities with industry professionals, providing firsthand insights that might not be readily available online.
Lastly, I am part of several online communities and forums, such as the IGDA (International Game Developers Association) and various subreddits like r/gamedesign and r/gamedev. These communities are excellent platforms for discussing ideas, getting feedback, and learning from others’ experiences.
Ultimately, staying updated with the latest trends and technologies isn’t just about passive consumption of information. I make a conscious effort to apply what I learn to my projects, whether it’s experimenting with a trending game mechanic in a game jam or exploring a new technology that could enhance the games I work on.
Being a game designer today is about constantly learning and adapting, and I truly enjoy this ever-evolving journey. I find that my proactive approach to learning not only enhances my work but also keeps my passion for game design alive and thriving.