Design core features of video games. Specify innovative game and role-play mechanics, story lines, and character biographies. Create and maintain design documentation. Guide and collaborate with production staff to produce games as designed.
SOC: 15-1255.01
Common Job Titles
Design Director
Designer
Game Designer
World Designer
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
KnowledgeCreate innovative game mechanics, storylines, and character biographies for video game projects, integrating player psychology and narrative design principles.
Advanced
KnowledgeDesign core gameplay systems and role-play mechanics using game engines such as Unity or Unreal Engine, balancing complexity with player engagement.
Advanced
KnowledgeFormulate comprehensive design documentation and technical specifications using tools such as Microsoft Visio, JIRA, and version control systems to maintain project coherence.
Advanced
KnowledgeEvaluate game design prototypes and player experience feedback during iterative development cycles, making data-driven decisions to refine mechanics.
Proficient
KnowledgeAnalyze technical constraints and system requirements collaborating with programmers and artists to ensure design feasibility across platforms.
Proficient
KnowledgeApply programming concepts in C++, C#, or Python to prototype gameplay features and communicate technical requirements with development teams.
Proficient
KnowledgeSynthesize cross-disciplinary knowledge of design, psychology, and technology when conceptualizing player engagement strategies and monetization models.
Proficient
MindsetIntegrate creative vision with production constraints and team input when negotiating design trade-offs with interdisciplinary stakeholders under tight deadlines.
Proficient
MindsetAdvocate player-centric design principles and accessibility standards while balancing commercial objectives and technical limitations in production meetings.
Proficient
MindsetEngage production staff through clear communication and collaborative problem-solving during all phases of game development to align team efforts with design objectives.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Video Game Designers (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
111,400
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $47,840. 25th percentile: U.S. $64,990. 50th percentile: U.S. $98,090. 75th percentile: U.S. $141,860. 90th percentile: U.S. $192,180. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$47,840
10% of workers earn the following or more
$192,180
Workers on average earn
$111,450
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Design4.3/5
Computers and Electronics4.2/5
Communications and Media3.5/5
Psychology3.3/5
Mathematics3.3/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
