Russ Earwaker
@russearwaker
Experienced game designer with a passion for creating fun experiences.
ZimbabweWhat I'm looking for
With over 20 years of experience as a game designer, I thrive on seeing players enjoy the creations I bring to life. My expertise spans various aspects of design and game development, fueled by a fascination with the psychology of fun and the innovation of new ideas. I dedicate my spare time to exploring original concepts and staying updated with the latest technologies.
Throughout my career, I have gained extensive AAA experience in gameplay, systems, and technical design, overseeing the full project cycle from ideation to live service. I have worked with multidisciplinary teams using Scrum methodologies and have a strong background in design mentoring, particularly in technical and creative aspects. My work includes notable projects like the independent development of a language-learning game, as well as contributions to popular titles in the industry.
My technical skills include proficiency in Unreal and Unity engines, as well as bespoke engine use. I have a proven track record of designing engaging gameplay mechanics and systems, including the creation of heroes for a vehicle-based PVP shooter. I am committed to delivering high-quality designs and fostering a collaborative environment that encourages creativity and innovation.
Experience
Work history, roles, and key accomplishments
Senior Game Designer
Vector North
Dec 2022 - Aug 2023 (8 months)
Designed metagame progression, quest systems, and various in-game activities for unreleased titles. Contributed to the overall game design and player experience.
Senior Technical Game Designer
DPS Games
Aug 2018 - Nov 2022 (4 years 3 months)
Designed, created, and rapidly iterated on six individual heroes and an entire hero class for a F2P AAA vehicle-based PVP hero shooter. Utilized Unreal GAS/blueprint for ability creation, vehicle handling, and weapon design, incorporating analytical evidence-based design feedback loops.
Game Designer
Climax Studios
Aug 2014 - Jul 2018 (3 years 11 months)
Contributed to core game design, level design, and scripting for multiple titles. Created demos and pitch documentation, and gave university talks on VR/AR and game design.
Game Designer
If You Can...
Dec 2013 - Jul 2014 (7 months)
Developed education-focused live products within a highly agile development team. Focused on creating engaging and effective learning experiences through game design.
Game Designer
Lionhead Studios
Aug 2009 - Nov 2013 (4 years 3 months)
Specialized in meta design and prototyping, as well as Kinect interaction design. Developed cinematic animation graph scripting using Lua and in-house tools, and contributed to collaborative tool-chain development and level design.
Game Designer
Crytek
Dec 2006 - Jul 2009 (2 years 7 months)
Responsible for level design, enemy core gameplay, and AI design. Also contributed to tool-chain documentation for game development.
Game Designer
Headfirst Productions
Feb 2005 - Nov 2006 (1 year 9 months)
Contributed to level design, game design, and scripting for unreleased demos. Focused on creating engaging gameplay experiences.
Level Designer
Blitz Games
Jun 2003 - Jan 2005 (1 year 7 months)
Specialized in level design and scripting for various titles. Contributed to the overall game development process.
Education
Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework
Self-education
Self-education, Game Development
Focused on learning Unity, C#, and Javascript to develop a small iPhone game. This period involved hands-on experience in game development technologies.
Tech stack
Software and tools used professionally
Availability
Location
ZimbabweAuthorized to work in
Job categories
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