Principal Game Designer

About the Role

This permanent Principal Game Designer position is based at a modern studio in Royal Leamington Spa. The role follows a hybrid schedule, with at least three days each week spent in the studio. Relocation support can be provided when needed.

In this role, you will take ownership of major design areas, help improve design processes and production pipelines, and contribute as a dependable, self-directed team member. You will also serve as a strong advocate for quality throughout the game.

The studio is looking for an accomplished Senior or Lead Designer with deep enthusiasm for the craft, broad game design expertise, a hands-on working style, and a proven history of delivering strong results.

What You Will Do

• Use the studio’s proprietary engine and internal tools to build systems and features to a very high standard, supporting the project’s creative vision.
• Develop and upkeep clear, robust feature and system designs.
• Collaborate closely with a talented, highly driven team across different disciplines.
• Support the growth of junior colleagues through mentoring and coaching.

What You Will Bring

• Industry experience across the full development cycle in game design roles, ideally on a well-known shipped AAA title.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and spoken.
• Strong capability in designing game systems and mechanics, while aligning other disciplines around design goals.
• Hands-on implementation experience with scripting tools or similar development workflows.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to spot and resolve issues at every stage of production.
• Comfort working with teammates who bring different perspectives.
• The ability to work independently and remain highly dependable.
• A clear record of delivering high-quality work.
• Experience with RPGs, open-world games, and/or large-scale single-player titles is especially valuable.
• Genuine enthusiasm for games.
• Text-based scripting in C++, C#, or a similar language is preferred but not required.

Additional Information

This opportunity offers the chance to create world-class games with an experienced, collaborative team at one of the industry’s most exciting first-party studios.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to building a diverse, inclusive, and welcoming workplace. It values people of all backgrounds and identities, and believes that inclusion strengthens creativity and helps the team connect better with players.

The studio also emphasizes self-development, career growth, well-being, and long-term retention, and welcomes everyone to be themselves at work. If you need reasonable accommodation to apply for this role, you can contact the recruitment team at recruitment@playground-games.com.