Senior Gameplay Designer (9 month contract) - Design - Hybrid/Remote (UK) in Liverpool

Firesprite is a visionary game development studio based in the heart of Liverpool. Proud to be an integral part of the PlayStation Studios family, we create showcase games that take players on thrilling journeys, with memorable characters, captivating narratives, and shared moments of excitement. Our commitment to the core values of Inclusivity, Bravery, Responsiveness, and Entrepreneurialism is a key driving force behind our work culture.

Role Overview: We are looking for a Senior Game Designer to build and deliver outstanding quality content for a AAA narrative adventure game in Unreal 5! You will be responsible for prototyping, documenting and then developing key gameplay features and systems from an initial concept to final delivery. This role includes hands‑on creation of feature prototypes and ongoing implementation work within UE5, using Blueprint and other Unreal tools to deliver high‑quality engine content. Additionally, as the owner of your content, you will be a key representative for cross‑team communication and feature quality, working collaboratively with other disciplines through documentation, direct cooperation, and review. As Senior, you will be expected to proactively identify opportunities to add new features and improve existing ones and work independently to deliver in those areas. This is a phenomenal opportunity for an ambitious individual looking for their next challenge giving you a chance to make major contributions to the gameplay and supporting systems and see the game through launch! Ideally, we would love individuals to be based in the studio for 1-3 days per week, but we will also consider those who have a preference for remote working in the UK.

What you'll be doing:

• Working with the Design Leads and other designers to specify features and systems needed to deliver the game vision, and to enhance it.
• Prototype features and systems using Blueprint, Sequencer, Animation Blueprints and other Unreal tools.
• Design and iterate on prototypes to develop features and ensure that they match the creative vision.
• Document and communicate the prototype findings and the feature goals to communicate them within the design team, and to a cross‑discipline feature team.
• Work alongside members of other teams to develop the features and systems from initial prototype to a robust and well‑balanced implementation.
• Work with Level Designers and other content implementors to deploy and tune new features and systems within game content.
• Accurately plan your work.

What we're looking for:

• Ability to deliver high‑quality work that fits the direction and vision of the Game and Creative Directors.
• Deep knowledge of Unreal 5, including Blueprint, Sequencer, and Animation Blueprints.
• Great communication and collaborative skills, alongside members of all other disciplines.
• A creative but pragmatic approach to solving problems and improving quality.
• Able to take direction and critique with a mind to improving quality.
• Friendly and approachable personality with energetic and positive attitude.
• Commitment to delivering the very best player experience.
• Pro‑active communication.
• Working knowledge of Agile development.
• A background that demonstrates technical and communication skills.
• Professional game development experience in gameplay design.

Desirable Skills:

• Good knowledge of industry standard packages (MS Office, Jira, Perforce etc).
• Experience in narrative‑driven games.
• Experience with cameras, characters and controls.
• A passion for cinematic gameplay.
• Experience of at least 1 product cycle – Conception to Completion and Launch.

Benefits:

• Discretionary bonus opportunity.
• Hybrid Working (within Flexmodes).
• Private Medical Insurance.
• Dental Scheme.
• 25 days holiday per year.
• Access to cycle garage and showers.

Firesprite is proud to be an equal opportunity employer, with a commitment to a culture of inclusion and mutual respect for all employees from every walk of life, reflecting the community we make games for. We welcome and encourage applications from all suitable applicants regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief and marriage and civil partnerships.