Video Game Designer (Progression & Systems, Gameplay Design) - Volunteer Role

The Donovan's Venom, INC. Is a non-profit 501(c)(3) tax exempt organization dedicated to taking music, art, and entertainment to those who need it the most. The Donovan's Venom, INC. Caters to no particular individual(s) yet pledges relief to impaired or deprived individuals who are in need of musical,visual, comedic, and-or any alternative forms of liberation-through fine art & entertainment. The Donovan's Venom INC. Gives its resources to individuals who don't have the means or access.,Video Game Designer (Progression & Systems, Gameplay Design)The Donovan’s Venom (501c3 Nonprofit)Department Interactive Media Studio (Game Development)Location RemotePosition Type Volunteer RoleReports To Lead Video Game Designer / Director of Interactive Media StudioPosition OverviewThe Video Game Designer (Progression & Systems) is responsible for designing and supporting the development of gameplay systems, progression mechanics, and player interactions within game projects.This role focuses on building engaging systems that drive gameplay, retention, and player experience, while collaborating with developers and artists to bring designs to life.Operating at the intersection of gameplay design, systems thinking, and implementation, this role is critical to ensuring the game is structured, balanced, and engaging.Key ResponsibilitiesGameplay Systems DesignDesign gameplay systems, including Core mechanics Player interactions Rules and behaviors Ensure systems are intuitive and engaging Progression & Player ExperienceDevelop progression systems such as Leveling Rewards Unlocks Support player retention and engagement Gameplay Balance & TuningAdjust gameplay systems for Difficulty Pacing Fairness Iterate based on testing and feedback Prototyping & IterationSupport prototyping of gameplay systems Test and refine mechanics Iterate designs based on results Design DocumentationCreate and maintain System design documentation Gameplay descriptions Ensure clarity for developers and team members Collaboration with Development TeamsWork with Developers (implementation) Artists (visual alignment) Ensure systems are feasible and implemented correctly Unity & Implementation SupportCollaborate within Unity (or similar engines) Support implementation of gameplay systems Assist with testing and iteration Playtesting & Feedback IntegrationParticipate in playtesting sessions Gather and apply feedback Improve gameplay experience Systems Thinking & IntegrationEnsure gameplay systems connect effectively Support cohesive gameplay loops Align systems with overall design goals Problem-Solving & ConstraintsAdapt designs based on Technical limitations Scope constraints Balance creativity with feasibility Continuous ImprovementImprove systems based on feedback and testing Stay current with game design trends Enhance player experience Volunteer Commitment ExpectationsEstimated Commitment 10-15 hours per week Flexible schedule Participation in game development meetings required Fully remote Minimum Qualifications1–3 years of experience in Game design Systems design Gameplay development Understanding of Game mechanics Progression systems Player experience Preferred QualificationsExperience with Unity or similar game engines Experience working on game projects (academic, indie, or professional) Experience in collaborative or remote teams Core CompetenciesSystems & Gameplay DesignDesigns functional gameplay systems Supports engaging player experiences Progression DesignBuilds player progression loops Supports retention and engagement Problem SolvingAdjusts systems based on feedback Resolves gameplay challenges CollaborationWorks with developers and artists Aligns systems with overall game design Attention to DetailEnsures clarity and consistency in design Maintains structured documentation AdaptabilityIterates designs based on testing Adjusts to changing requirements Work EnvironmentFully remote Collaborative game development environment Creative and iterative workflowImportant DisclaimerThis is a volunteer position and does not constitute employment.We are onboarding individuals who are ready to contribute immediately.Please only apply if you are prepared to begin within the next 14 days.