Game design
Game design is the art and science of crafting engaging and immersive interactive experiences. It involves creating the rules, mechanics, story, and overall structure of a game, whether it's a mobile puzzle, a sprawling RPG, or a competitive esports title. A skilled game designer considers player psychology, balancing challenge and reward, and creating a compelling narrative to deliver a memorable and enjoyable experience.
What to look for in a freelance game designer
Finding the right freelance game designer can be crucial to the success of your project. Look for individuals with a strong portfolio showcasing diverse projects. A good game designer possesses a blend of creativity, technical understanding, and analytical thinking. They should be able to communicate their ideas clearly and collaborate effectively with other team members, such as artists, programmers, and sound designers.
Main expertise areas
Game design encompasses various specialisations. When hiring, consider which areas are most relevant to your project:
- Level design: Crafting engaging and challenging levels, including layout, pacing, and difficulty.
- Systems design: Developing the core mechanics and rules that govern gameplay, such as progression systems, combat mechanics, and economies.
- Narrative design: Creating compelling stories, characters, and lore that enhance the player's immersion.
- UX/UI design: Designing user interfaces and experiences that are intuitive and enjoyable.
- Game balancing: Ensuring fair and engaging gameplay by fine-tuning game mechanics and difficulty.
Relevant interview questions
Prepare insightful questions to assess a candidate's suitability:
- Describe your game design process. How do you approach a new project?
- Tell me about a game you designed that you're particularly proud of. What were the challenges and how did you overcome them?
- What are your favourite games and why? What design elements do you admire?
- How do you approach game balancing? Can you give an example?
- How do you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies in game design?
Tips for shortlisting candidates
Effectively shortlisting candidates will save you time and effort:
- Carefully review portfolios for projects that align with your vision and target audience.
- Look for evidence of strong problem-solving skills and a collaborative mindset.
- Check for positive client testimonials and feedback.
- Assess their communication skills and responsiveness during initial interactions.
Potential red flags
Be mindful of these potential red flags:
- A portfolio lacking diversity or showcasing only one genre.
- Poor communication skills or a lack of responsiveness.
- Inability to articulate design decisions or provide clear explanations.
- Negative client reviews or reports of unprofessional behaviour.
Typical complementary skills
Game designers often possess complementary skills that can benefit your project:
- Programming (C#, C++, Unity, Unreal Engine)
- 2D/3D art and animation
- Sound design and music composition
- Project management
- Storytelling and creative writing
What problems a freelance game designer can solve
Hiring a freelance game designer can address various challenges:
- Bringing your game idea to life: A skilled designer can transform your concept into a playable reality.
- Improving game mechanics and balancing: They can refine your game's core systems to create a more engaging and enjoyable experience.
- Creating compelling narratives and characters: A narrative designer can add depth and immersion to your game's world.
- Designing intuitive and user-friendly interfaces: A UX/UI designer can ensure your game is easy to navigate and understand.
- Adding fresh perspectives and innovative ideas: Freelancers can bring new ideas and approaches to your project.
Examples of how game design is applied in real-world projects:
- Developing a mobile puzzle game: A game designer creates challenging levels, designs rewarding progression systems, and ensures a smooth user experience.
- Creating a narrative-driven RPG: A game designer crafts a compelling story, develops engaging characters, and designs quests and dialogue.
- Designing a competitive esports title: A game designer focuses on balanced gameplay, strategic depth, and spectator appeal.
