Blizzard Entertainment - Associate Game Designer - Temp, Hearthstone

Game Designer is needed in Irvine, United States.

Client: Blizzard Entertainment

Location: Irvine, CA

Contract: Contractor

Job Description

Blizzard is looking for an Associate Game Designer on a temporary 12-month contract to join the Hearthstone card design team. The main responsibility will be to create fun-to-play, clear, and balanced cards for upcoming expansions. The role requires player insight, analytical abilities, and creativity to create player-focused designs. This is anticipated to be a hybrid work position, with some on-site work required in Irvine, CA.

Responsibilities

• Create engaging cards and mechanics for Hearthstone’s future expansions.
• Design and develop cards, concepts, and flavor that encapsulates the charm of Hearthstone.
• Script and implement cards using internal tools.
• Participate in playtests and provide feedback on other designers’ cards.
• Set a good example for collaboration, communication, and respect within the team.
• Advocate for and explain product vision and design decisions both inside and outside the design team.

Requirements

Minimum Requirements

• A strong sense of what makes a gameplay experience compelling and fun, along with the ability to articulate design decisions.
• A demonstrable understanding of how player experience in competitive card games evolves due to new mechanics and synergies.
• Outstanding self-motivation and initiative.
• Ability to work well in a collaborative environment.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Commitment to creating a safe space for collaboration and creativity.

Extra Points (Preferred Experience)

• Previous professional game design experience.
• Experience working with data on a live product for design decisions.
• Experience implementing game content using a programming or scripting language.
• Expert/Tournament level CCG play experience.
• Creative writing skills.
• Familiarity with statistics or analytics.

Benefits

The company offers a comprehensive suite of benefits that promote physical, emotional, and financial well-being, which includes:

• Medical, dental, vision, and health savings accounts.
• Life and AD&D insurance, disability insurance.
• 401(k) with company match, tuition reimbursement, charitable donation matching.
• Paid holidays, vacation, sick time, and parental leave.
• Mental health and well-being programs, fitness programs.
• Relocation assistance for required geographic moves.

Compensation

In the U.S., the standard base pay range for this role is $24.04 - $44.47 Hourly. Compensation may vary based on relevant experience, performance, and work location. Incentive compensation is not guaranteed.

Company Overview

Blizzard Entertainment is a premier developer and publisher of entertainment experiences, known for iconic video game universes such as Warcraft®, Overwatch®, Diablo®, and StarCraft®. The company engages millions of players worldwide and aspires to build immersive and innovative worlds with diverse teams in an inclusive environment.

Diversity and Inclusion Commitment

The company values diversity and is committed to creating an inclusive environment. They encourage applications from individuals, especially from under-represented groups, even if not all qualifications are met.

Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities

The company is committed to providing reasonable assistance to individuals with disabilities. Requests for accommodations can be directed to [email protected].