[Core] [20% incumbents] Balance and adjust gameplay experiences to ensure the critical and commercial success of the product.
  DWAs: Design video game features or details.

[Core] [20% incumbents] Devise missions, challenges, or puzzles to be encountered in game play.
  DWAs: Design video game features or details.

[Core] [20% incumbents] Create core game features, including storylines, role-play mechanics, and character biographies for a new video game or game franchise.
  DWAs: Design video game features or details.

[Core] [20% incumbents] Solicit, obtain, and integrate feedback from design and technical staff into original game design.
  DWAs: Collaborate with others to determine design specifications or details.

[Core] [20% incumbents] Conduct regular design reviews throughout the game development process.
  DWAs: Test software performance.

[Core] [20% incumbents] Develop and maintain design level documentation, including mechanics, guidelines, and mission outlines.
  DWAs: Design video game features or details. | Document design or development procedures.

[Core] [20% incumbents] Document all aspects of formal game design, using mock-up screenshots, sample menu layouts, gameplay flowcharts, and other graphical devices.
  DWAs: Document design or development procedures.

[Core] [20% incumbents] Provide feedback to designers and other colleagues regarding game design features.
  DWAs: Communicate project information to others.

[Core] [20% incumbents] Create and manage documentation, production schedules, prototyping goals, and communication plans in collaboration with production staff.
  DWAs: Manage documentation to ensure organization or accuracy. | Manage information technology projects or system activities.

[Core] [20% incumbents] Provide feedback to production staff regarding technical game qualities or adherence to original design.
  DWAs: Communicate project information to others.

[Core] [20% incumbents] Create gameplay prototypes for presentation to creative and technical staff and management.
  DWAs: Prepare graphics or other visual representations of information.

[Core] [20% incumbents] Guide design discussions between development teams.
  DWAs: Collaborate with others to determine design specifications or details.

[Core] [20% incumbents] Oversee gameplay testing to ensure intended gaming experience and game adherence to original vision.
  DWAs: Test software performance.

[Core] [20% incumbents] Present new game design concepts to management and technical colleagues, including artists, animators, and programmers.
  DWAs: Communicate project information to others.

[Core] [20% incumbents] Prepare two-dimensional concept layouts or three-dimensional mock-ups.
  DWAs: Prepare graphics or other visual representations of information.

[Core] [20% incumbents] Keep abreast of game design technology and techniques, industry trends, or audience interests, reactions, and needs by reviewing current literature, talking with colleagues, participating in educational programs, attending meetings or workshops, or participating in professional organizations or conferences.
  DWAs: Update knowledge about emerging industry or technology trends.

[Core] [20% incumbents] Review or evaluate competitive products, film, music, television, and other art forms to generate new game design ideas.
  DWAs: Analyze market or customer related data.

[Core] [20% incumbents] Collaborate with artists to achieve appropriate visual style.
  DWAs: Collaborate with others to determine design specifications or details.

[Core] [20% incumbents] Write or supervise the writing of game text and dialogue.
  DWAs: Design video game features or details. | Supervise information technology personnel.

[Core] [20% incumbents] Consult with multiple stakeholders to define requirements and implement online features.
  DWAs: Collaborate with others to determine design specifications or details.

[Core] [20% incumbents] Determine supplementary virtual features, such as currency, item catalog, menu design, and audio direction.
  DWAs: Design video game features or details.

[Core] [20% incumbents] Prepare and revise initial game sketches using two- and three-dimensional graphical design software.
  DWAs: Prepare graphics or other visual representations of information.

[Core] [20% incumbents] Create gameplay test plans for internal and external test groups.
  DWAs: Develop testing routines or procedures.

[Core] [20% incumbents] Provide test specifications to quality assurance staff.
  DWAs: Communicate project information to others.

--- SKILLS ---
  Active Listening (imp:3.88 lvl:3.88) — Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand
  Reading Comprehension (imp:3.75 lvl:4.00) — Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
  Critical Thinking (imp:3.75 lvl:3.88) — Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternativ
  Active Learning (imp:3.50 lvl:3.62) — Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future pr
  Writing (imp:3.25 lvl:3.88) — Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audienc
  Speaking (imp:3.12 lvl:3.88) — Talking to others to convey information effectively.
  Monitoring (imp:3.12 lvl:3.62) — Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organization
  Mathematics (imp:2.88 lvl:3.12) — Using mathematics to solve problems.
  Learning Strategies (imp:2.88 lvl:3.00) — Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate fo
  Science (imp:1.38 lvl:0.50) — Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.

--- KNOWLEDGE ---
  Design (imp:4.26 lvl:5.25) — Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of 
  Computers and Electronics (imp:4.15 lvl:5.15) — Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and comput
  Communications and Media (imp:3.47 lvl:4.35) — Knowledge of media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and m
  Mathematics (imp:3.30 lvl:4.80) — Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their appl
  Psychology (imp:3.30 lvl:3.85) — Knowledge of human behavior and performance; individual differences in ability, 
  English Language (imp:3.25 lvl:3.95) — Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the mea
  Engineering and Technology (imp:2.80 lvl:2.95) — Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. Th
  Sociology and Anthropology (imp:2.79 lvl:3.80) — Knowledge of group behavior and dynamics, societal trends and influences, human 
  Education and Training (imp:2.65 lvl:3.05) — Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching
  Fine Arts (imp:2.65 lvl:3.05) — Knowledge of the theory and techniques required to compose, produce, and perform
  Administration and Management (imp:2.55 lvl:3.25) — Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, 
  Administrative (imp:2.35 lvl:3.00) — Knowledge of administrative and office procedures and systems such as word proce
  Physics (imp:2.10 lvl:2.25) — Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships,
  Sales and Marketing (imp:2.05 lvl:2.10) — Knowledge of principles and methods for showing, promoting, and selling products
  Telecommunications (imp:2.05 lvl:1.65) — Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of te
  History and Archeology (imp:2.00 lvl:1.90) — Knowledge of historical events and their causes, indicators, and effects on civi
  Economics and Accounting (imp:1.90 lvl:1.45) — Knowledge of economic and accounting principles and practices, the financial mar
  Customer and Personal Service (imp:1.90 lvl:1.65) — Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal servic
  Philosophy and Theology (imp:1.83 lvl:2.00) — Knowledge of different philosophical systems and religions. This includes their 
  Personnel and Human Resources (imp:1.75 lvl:1.40) — Knowledge of principles and procedures for personnel recruitment, selection, tra
  Production and Processing (imp:1.65 lvl:1.35) — Knowledge of raw materials, production processes, quality control, costs, and ot
  Law and Government (imp:1.65 lvl:1.25) — Knowledge of laws, legal codes, court procedures, precedents, government regulat
  Geography (imp:1.60 lvl:1.65) — Knowledge of principles and methods for describing the features of land, sea, an
  Foreign Language (imp:1.40 lvl:0.65) — Knowledge of the structure and content of a foreign (non-English) language inclu
  Public Safety and Security (imp:1.30 lvl:0.45) — Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote
  Mechanical (imp:1.25 lvl:0.50) — Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and main
  Biology (imp:1.25 lvl:0.50) — Knowledge of plant and animal organisms, their tissues, cells, functions, interd
  Transportation (imp:1.25 lvl:0.35) — Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea
  Building and Construction (imp:1.20 lvl:0.35) — Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or r
  Therapy and Counseling (imp:1.20 lvl:0.25) — Knowledge of principles, methods, and procedures for diagnosis, treatment, and r
  Medicine and Dentistry (imp:1.05 lvl:0.10) — Knowledge of the information and techniques needed to diagnose and treat human i
  Food Production (imp:1.00) — Knowledge of techniques and equipment for planting, growing, and harvesting food
  Chemistry (imp:1.00) — Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances a

--- ABILITIES ---
  Fluency of Ideas (imp:4.12 lvl:4.12) — The ability to come up with a number of ideas about a topic (the number of ideas
  Written Comprehension (imp:4.00 lvl:3.88) — The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
  Originality (imp:4.00 lvl:4.12) — The ability to come up with unusual or clever ideas about a given topic or situa
  Near Vision (imp:4.00 lvl:4.00) — The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
  Oral Comprehension (imp:3.88 lvl:4.00) — The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through 
  Written Expression (imp:3.88 lvl:3.88) — The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will under
  Information Ordering (imp:3.88 lvl:3.88) — The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern according
  Oral Expression (imp:3.75 lvl:4.00) — The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will unde
  Problem Sensitivity (imp:3.75 lvl:3.88) — The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does no
  Deductive Reasoning (imp:3.75 lvl:3.88) — The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that 
  Inductive Reasoning (imp:3.75 lvl:4.00) — The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusion
  Selective Attention (imp:3.38 lvl:3.75) — The ability to concentrate on a task over a period of time without being distrac
  Visualization (imp:3.25 lvl:3.75) — The ability to imagine how something will look after it is moved around or when 
  Speech Recognition (imp:3.25 lvl:3.25) — The ability to identify and understand the speech of another person.
  Speech Clarity (imp:3.12 lvl:3.12) — The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you.
  Category Flexibility (imp:3.00 lvl:3.38) — The ability to generate or use different sets of rules for combining or grouping
  Flexibility of Closure (imp:3.00 lvl:3.12) — The ability to identify or detect a known pattern (a figure, object, word, or so
  Perceptual Speed (imp:3.00 lvl:2.88) — The ability to quickly and accurately compare similarities and differences among
  Mathematical Reasoning (imp:2.88 lvl:3.00) — The ability to choose the right mathematical methods or formulas to solve a prob
  Number Facility (imp:2.88 lvl:3.00) — The ability to add, subtract, multiply, or divide quickly and correctly.
  Far Vision (imp:2.88 lvl:3.00) — The ability to see details at a distance.
  Visual Color Discrimination (imp:2.88 lvl:3.12) — The ability to match or detect differences between colors, including shades of c
  Speed of Closure (imp:2.75 lvl:2.88) — The ability to quickly make sense of, combine, and organize information into mea
  Memorization (imp:2.62 lvl:2.75) — The ability to remember information such as words, numbers, pictures, and proced
  Time Sharing (imp:2.62 lvl:2.62) — The ability to shift back and forth between two or more activities or sources of
  Finger Dexterity (imp:2.62 lvl:2.38) — The ability to make precisely coordinated movements of the fingers of one or bot
  Arm-Hand Steadiness (imp:2.12 lvl:2.12) — The ability to keep your hand and arm steady while moving your arm or while hold
  Hearing Sensitivity (imp:2.12 lvl:2.12) — The ability to detect or tell the differences between sounds that vary in pitch 
  Manual Dexterity (imp:2.00 lvl:2.00) — The ability to quickly move your hand, your hand together with your arm, or your
  Control Precision (imp:2.00 lvl:2.12) — The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehi
  Auditory Attention (imp:2.00 lvl:1.12) — The ability to focus on a single source of sound in the presence of other distra
  Trunk Strength (imp:1.62 lvl:0.88) — The ability to use your abdominal and lower back muscles to support part of the 
  Depth Perception (imp:1.62 lvl:0.62) — The ability to judge which of several objects is closer or farther away from you
  Wrist-Finger Speed (imp:1.50 lvl:0.62) — The ability to make fast, simple, repeated movements of the fingers, hands, and 
  Dynamic Strength (imp:1.12 lvl:0.12) — The ability to exert muscle force repeatedly or continuously over time. This inv
  Spatial Orientation (imp:1.00) — The ability to know your location in relation to the environment or to know wher
  Multilimb Coordination (imp:1.00) — The ability to coordinate two or more limbs (for example, two arms, two legs, or
  Response Orientation (imp:1.00) — The ability to choose quickly between two or more movements in response to two o
  Rate Control (imp:1.00) — The ability to time your movements or the movement of a piece of equipment in an
  Reaction Time (imp:1.00) — The ability to quickly respond (with the hand, finger, or foot) to a signal (sou
  Speed of Limb Movement (imp:1.00) — The ability to quickly move the arms and legs.
  Static Strength (imp:1.00) — The ability to exert maximum muscle force to lift, push, pull, or carry objects.
  Explosive Strength (imp:1.00) — The ability to use short bursts of muscle force to propel oneself (as in jumping
  Stamina (imp:1.00) — The ability to exert yourself physically over long periods of time without getti
  Extent Flexibility (imp:1.00) — The ability to bend, stretch, twist, or reach with your body, arms, and/or legs.
  Dynamic Flexibility (imp:1.00) — The ability to quickly and repeatedly bend, stretch, twist, or reach out with yo
  Gross Body Coordination (imp:1.00) — The ability to coordinate the movement of your arms, legs, and torso together wh
  Gross Body Equilibrium (imp:1.00) — The ability to keep or regain your body balance or stay upright when in an unsta
  Night Vision (imp:1.00) — The ability to see under low-light conditions.
  Peripheral Vision (imp:1.00) — The ability to see objects or movement of objects to one's side when the eyes ar
  Glare Sensitivity (imp:1.00) — The ability to see objects in the presence of a glare or bright lighting.
  Sound Localization (imp:1.00) — The ability to tell the direction from which a sound originated.

--- WORK ACTIVITIES ---
  Thinking Creatively (imp:4.90 lvl:6.40) — Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, syste
  Working with Computers (imp:4.85 lvl:4.30) — Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to progra
  Making Decisions and Solving Problems (imp:4.70 lvl:5.35) — Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and sol
  Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates (imp:4.30 lvl:5.20) — Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone,
  Getting Information (imp:4.05 lvl:4.70) — Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sour
  Processing Information (imp:3.95 lvl:4.84) — Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying
  Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships (imp:3.80 lvl:4.25) — Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and m
  Analyzing Data or Information (imp:3.75 lvl:4.80) — Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by break
  Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge (imp:3.70 lvl:5.35) — Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
  Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events (imp:3.65 lvl:4.70) — Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or 
  Developing Objectives and Strategies (imp:3.60 lvl:3.85) — Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to 
  Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work (imp:3.60 lvl:4.85) — Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your
  Documenting/Recording Information (imp:3.60 lvl:3.80) — Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in writte
  Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People (imp:3.35 lvl:4.10) — Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.
  Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with Others (imp:3.32 lvl:4.20) — Handling complaints, settling disputes, and resolving grievances and conflicts, 
  Developing and Building Teams (imp:3.30 lvl:4.10) — Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team membe
  Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others (imp:3.16 lvl:3.75) — Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
  Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information (imp:3.10 lvl:3.45) — Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resourc
  Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings (imp:3.00 lvl:3.75) — Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment,
  Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others (imp:2.90 lvl:3.70) — Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks.
  Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates (imp:2.90 lvl:3.45) — Providing guidance and direction to subordinates, including setting performance 
  Providing Consultation and Advice to Others (imp:2.89 lvl:4.10) — Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical,
  Communicating with People Outside the Organization (imp:2.85 lvl:3.40) — Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organizatio
  Selling or Influencing Others (imp:2.84 lvl:3.15) — Convincing others to buy merchandise/goods or to otherwise change their minds or
  Scheduling Work and Activities (imp:2.75 lvl:3.40) — Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.
  Training and Teaching Others (imp:2.65 lvl:3.20) — Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or tr
  Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards (imp:2.61 lvl:2.89) — Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events o
  Coaching and Developing Others (imp:2.55 lvl:3.40) — Identifying the developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring, or otherw
  Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment (imp:2.15 lvl:2.15) — Providing documentation, detailed instructions, drawings, or specifications to t
  Assisting and Caring for Others (imp:2.10 lvl:1.50) — Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other pe
  Performing Administrative Activities (imp:2.10 lvl:2.50) — Performing day-to-day administrative tasks such as maintaining information files
  Staffing Organizational Units (imp:2.05 lvl:2.50) — Recruiting, interviewing, selecting, hiring, and promoting employees in an organ
  Monitoring and Controlling Resources (imp:2.05 lvl:2.15) — Monitoring and controlling resources and overseeing the spending of money.
  Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials (imp:1.90 lvl:1.65) — Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors o
  Performing for or Working Directly with the Public (imp:1.70 lvl:1.40) — Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving
  Controlling Machines and Processes (imp:1.68 lvl:1.20) — Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines 
  Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment (imp:1.45 lvl:0.75) — Servicing, repairing, calibrating, regulating, fine-tuning, or testing machines,
  Performing General Physical Activities (imp:1.30 lvl:0.35) — Performing general physical activities includes doing activities that require co
  Handling and Moving Objects (imp:1.25 lvl:0.65) — Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials,
  Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or Equipment (imp:1.00) — Running, maneuvering, navigating, or driving vehicles or mechanized equipment, s
  Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment (imp:1.00) — Servicing, repairing, adjusting, and testing machines, devices, moving parts, an

--- WORK STYLES ---
  Dependability (imp:5.00) — A tendency to be reliable, responsible, and consistent in meeting work-related o
  Intellectual Curiosity (imp:4.00) — A tendency to seek out and acquire new work-related knowledge and obtain a deep 
  Innovation (imp:3.00) — A tendency to be inventive, to be imaginative, and to adopt new perspectives on 
  Achievement Orientation (imp:3.00) — A tendency to establish and maintain personally challenging work-related goals, 
  Intellectual Curiosity (imp:2.33) — A tendency to seek out and acquire new work-related knowledge and obtain a deep 
  Adaptability (imp:2.30) — A tendency to be open to and comfortable with change, new experiences, or ideas 
  Achievement Orientation (imp:2.14) — A tendency to establish and maintain personally challenging work-related goals, 
  Adaptability (imp:2.00) — A tendency to be open to and comfortable with change, new experiences, or ideas 
  Dependability (imp:2.00) — A tendency to be reliable, responsible, and consistent in meeting work-related o
  Cooperation (imp:1.99) — A tendency to be pleasant, helpful, and willing to assist others at work.
  Self-Confidence (imp:1.98) — A tendency to believe in one's work-related capabilities and ability to control 
  Tolerance for Ambiguity (imp:1.95) — A tendency to be comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty at work.
  Attention to Detail (imp:1.92) — A tendency to be detail-oriented, organized, and thorough in completing work.
  Initiative (imp:1.89) — A tendency to be proactive and take on extra responsibilities and tasks that may
  Perseverance (imp:1.87) — A tendency to exhibit determination and resolve to perform or complete tasks in 
  Leadership Orientation (imp:1.67) — A tendency to lead, take charge, offer opinions, and provide direction at work.
  Social Orientation (imp:1.43) — A tendency to seek out, enjoy, and be energized by social interaction at work.
  Stress Tolerance (imp:1.43) — A tendency to cope and function effectively in stressful situations at work.
  Innovation (imp:1.00) — A tendency to be inventive, to be imaginative, and to adopt new perspectives on 
  Self-Control (imp:1.00) — A tendency to remain calm and composed and to manage emotions effectively in res
  Optimism (imp:0.79) — A tendency to exhibit a positive attitude and positive emotions at work, even un
  Integrity (imp:0.74) — A tendency to be honest and ethical at work.
  Empathy (imp:0.64) — A tendency to show concern for others and be sensitive to others' needs and feel
  Sincerity (imp:0.62) — A tendency to be genuine and sincere in interactions with others at work, withou
  Humility (imp:0.27) — A tendency to be modest and humble when interacting with others at work.
  Tolerance for Ambiguity () — A tendency to be comfortable with ambiguity and uncertainty at work.
  Initiative () — A tendency to be proactive and take on extra responsibilities and tasks that may
  Self-Confidence () — A tendency to believe in one's work-related capabilities and ability to control 
  Perseverance () — A tendency to exhibit determination and resolve to perform or complete tasks in 
  Leadership Orientation () — A tendency to lead, take charge, offer opinions, and provide direction at work.
  Humility () — A tendency to be modest and humble when interacting with others at work.
  Sincerity () — A tendency to be genuine and sincere in interactions with others at work, withou
  Empathy () — A tendency to show concern for others and be sensitive to others' needs and feel
  Cooperation () — A tendency to be pleasant, helpful, and willing to assist others at work.
  Optimism () — A tendency to exhibit a positive attitude and positive emotions at work, even un
  Social Orientation () — A tendency to seek out, enjoy, and be energized by social interaction at work.
  Cautiousness () — A tendency to be careful, deliberate, and risk-avoidant when making work-related
  Attention to Detail () — A tendency to be detail-oriented, organized, and thorough in completing work.
  Integrity () — A tendency to be honest and ethical at work.
  Stress Tolerance () — A tendency to cope and function effectively in stressful situations at work.
  Self-Control () — A tendency to remain calm and composed and to manage emotions effectively in res
  Cautiousness (imp:-0.37) — A tendency to be careful, deliberate, and risk-avoidant when making work-related

--- TRANSFERABLE SKILLS ---
  Programming (imp:4.00 lvl:3.88) — Writing computer programs for various purposes.
  Complex Problem Solving (imp:3.62 lvl:3.88) — Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and ev
  Judgment and Decision Making (imp:3.62 lvl:3.62) — Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the m
  Systems Analysis (imp:3.38 lvl:3.25) — Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, 
  Time Management (imp:3.38 lvl:3.50) — Managing one's own time and the time of others.
  Systems Evaluation (imp:3.25 lvl:3.62) — Identifying measures or indicators of system performance and the actions needed 
  Coordination (imp:3.12 lvl:3.50) — Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
  Social Perceptiveness (imp:3.00 lvl:3.12) — Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.
  Persuasion (imp:3.00 lvl:3.12) — Persuading others to change their minds or behavior.
  Negotiation (imp:3.00 lvl:3.00) — Bringing others together and trying to reconcile differences.
  Operations Analysis (imp:3.00 lvl:3.00) — Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design.
  Technology Design (imp:3.00 lvl:3.00) — Generating or adapting equipment and technology to serve user needs.
  Instructing (imp:2.88 lvl:3.25) — Teaching others how to do something.
  Service Orientation (imp:2.75 lvl:2.75) — Actively looking for ways to help people.
  Management of Personnel Resources (imp:2.75 lvl:3.00) — Motivating, developing, and directing people as they work, identifying the best 
  Operations Monitoring (imp:2.25 lvl:2.50) — Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working pr
  Quality Control Analysis (imp:2.00 lvl:1.88) — Conducting tests and inspections of products, services, or processes to evaluate
  Management of Financial Resources (imp:1.88 lvl:1.38) — Determining how money will be spent to get the work done, and accounting for the
  Management of Material Resources (imp:1.88 lvl:1.50) — Obtaining and seeing to the appropriate use of equipment, facilities, and materi
  Equipment Selection (imp:1.12 lvl:0.12) — Determining the kind of tools and equipment needed to do a job.
  Installation (imp:1.12 lvl:0.12) — Installing equipment, machines, wiring, or programs to meet specifications.
  Troubleshooting (imp:1.12 lvl:0.12) — Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.
  Operation and Control (imp:1.00) — Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
  Equipment Maintenance (imp:1.00) — Performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind o
  Repairing (imp:1.00) — Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.

--- NATIONAL WAGES ---
  total_employment : 113,330
  annual_median    : $104,000
  annual_pct10     : $53,750
  annual_pct25     : $73,290
  annual_pct75     : $158,820
  annual_pct90     : $201,550
  annual_mean      : $117,490
  hourly_median    : $50.00

--- GEOGRAPHIC DISPERSION ---
  highest_state    : California ($136,110)
  lowest_state     : Guam ($31,200)
  dispersion_ratio : 4.362x

--- TOP STATES BY WAGE (48 total) ---
  Information                              emp:   35,430  median: $ 130,140
  Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services emp:   33,430  median: $  98,560
  Finance and Insurance                    emp:    7,480  median: $ 133,260
  Management of Companies and Enterprises  emp:    6,280  median: $ 118,320
  Wholesale Trade                          emp:    6,150  median: $  87,640
  Administrative and Support and Waste Management and Remediation Services emp:    5,730  median: $ 107,240
  Educational Services                     emp:    4,240  median: $  77,860
  Manufacturing                            emp:    3,640  median: $ 107,010
  Retail Trade                             emp:    3,350  median: $  73,000
  Other Services (except Public Administration) emp:    2,290  median: $  80,840

--- TOP INDUSTRIES BY EMPLOYMENT (18 total) ---
  Information                              emp:   35,430  median: $ 130,140
  Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services emp:   33,430  median: $  98,560
  Finance and Insurance                    emp:    7,480  median: $ 133,260
  Management of Companies and Enterprises  emp:    6,280  median: $ 118,320
  Wholesale Trade                          emp:    6,150  median: $  87,640
  Administrative and Support and Waste Management and Remediation Services emp:    5,730  median: $ 107,240
  Educational Services                     emp:    4,240  median: $  77,860
  Manufacturing                            emp:    3,640  median: $ 107,010
  Retail Trade                             emp:    3,350  median: $  73,000
  Other Services (except Public Administration) emp:    2,290  median: $  80,840

exact_match_status : found
matched_title      : Video game design
match_score        : 0.9189
wikidata_qid       : Q12336660
word_count         : 2,929
wikipedia_url      : https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Video_game_design
license            : CC BY-SA 4.0
fetched_at         : 2026-06-02T20:23:28.229895Z

--- WIKIPEDIA FULL TEXT ---
Video game design is the process of designing the rules and content of video games in the pre-production stage and designing the gameplay, environment, storyline and characters in the production stage. Some common video game design subdisciplines are world design, level design, system design, content design, and user interface design. Within the video game industry, video game design is usually just referred to as "game design", which is a more general term elsewhere.
The video game designer is like the director of a film; the designer is the visionary of the game and controls the artistic and technical elements of the game in fulfillment of their vision. However, with complex games, such as MMORPGs or a big budget action or sports title, designers may number in the dozens. In these cases, there are generally one or two principal designers and multiple junior designers who specify subsets or subsystems of the game. As the industry has aged and embraced alternative production methodologies such as agile, the role of a principal game designer has begun to separate - some studios emphasizing the auteur model while others emphasizing a more team oriented model. In larger companies like Electronic Arts, each aspect of the game (control, level design) may have a separate producer, lead designer and several general designers.
Video game design requires artistic and technical competence as well as sometimes including writing skills. Historically, video game programmers have sometimes comprised the entire design team. This is the case of such noted designers as Sid Meier, John Romero, Chris Sawyer and Will Wright. A notable exception to this policy was Coleco, which from its very start separated the function of design and programming. As video games became more complex, computers and consoles became more powerful, the job of the game designer became separate from the lead programmer. Soon, game complexity demanded team members focused on game design. A number of early veterans chose the game design path eschewing programming and delegating those tasks to others.


== Overview ==

Video game design starts with an idea, often a variation or modification on an existing concept. The game idea will fall within one or several genres and designers will often experiment with mixing genres. The game designer usually produces an initial game proposal document containing the concept, gameplay, feature list, setting and story, target audience, requirements and schedule, staff and budget estimates.
Multiple design decisions are made during the course of a game's development; it is the responsibility of the designer to decide which elements should be implemented. For example, consistency with the game's vision, budget or hardware limitations. Design changes will have a significant impact on required resources.
The designer may use scripting languages to implement and preview design ideas without necessarily modifying the game's codebase. A game designer often plays video games and demos to follow the markets' development.
Over time, it has become common for a game designer's name to misleadingly be given an undue amount of association to the game, neglecting the rest of the development team. This is in stark contrast to the industries' origins, when creators were often given little to no recognition. Coincidentally, this lack of credit lead Warren Robinett to create the first Easter egg in a video game.
Funding, traditionally provided by game publishers, who may have specific expectations from a game, must be taken into account, as most video games are market-driven — developed to sell for profit. However, if financial issues do not influence designer's decisions, the game can become design- or designer-driven; but few games are designed this way, with it becoming more common among indie game developers, alongside alternative sources of funding, like Early Access or Crowdfunding. Alternatively, a game may be technology-driven, such as Quake (1996), to show off a particular hardware achievement or to market the game engine. Finally, a game may be art-driven, such as Myst (1993) and Journey (2012), mainly to show off impressive visuals designed by artists.
In Rules of Play (2004), Katie Salen and Eric Zimmermann write:

A game designer is a particular kind of designer, much like a graphic designer, industrial designer or architect. A game designer is not necessarily a programmer, visual designer or project manager, although sometimes he or she can also play these roles in the creation of a game. A game designer might work alone or as part of a larger team. A game designer might create card games, social games, video games or any other kind of game. The focus of a game designer is designing game play, conceiving and designing rules and structures that result in an experience for players.
Thus game design, as a discipline, requires a focus on games in and of themselves. Rather than placing games in the service of another field such as sociology, literary criticism, or computer science, our aim is to study games within their own disciplinary space. Because game design is an emerging discipline, we often borrow from other areas of knowledge — from mathematics and cognitive science; from semiotics and cultural studies. We may not borrow in the most orthodox manner, but we do so in the service of helping to establish a field of game design proper.


== Game designer ==
A game designer is a person who designs gameplay, conceiving and designing the rules and structure of a game. Multiple designers start their career in testing departments, other roles in game development or in classroom conditions, where mistakes by others can be seen first-hand.

A lead designer coordinates the work of other designers and is the main visionary of the game. The lead designer ensures team communication, makes large design decisions and presents design outside of the team. Often the lead designer is technically and artistically astute. Keeping well-presented documentation also falls within lead designer responsibilities. A lead designer may be the founder of a game development company or a promoted employee.
A game mechanics designer or systems designer designs and balances the game's rules.
A level designer or environment designer is a position becoming prominent in recent years. A level designer is a person responsible for creating the game environment, levels and missions.
Planner is a term used in the Japanese video game industry where game designers are typically credited as planners.


=== Compensation ===
In 2010, a game designer with more than six years of experience earned an average of US$65,000 (£44,761.22 sterling), US$54,000 (£37,186.24) with three to six years of experience and $44,000 (£30,299.90) with less than 3 years of experience. Lead designers earned $75,000 (£51,647.56) with three to six years of experience and $95,000 (£65,420.24) with more than six years of experience. In 2013, a game designer with less than 3 years of experience earned, on average, $55,000 (£37,874.88). A game designer with more than 6 years of experience made, on average, $105,000 (£72,306.58). The average salary of these designers varies depending on their region. As of 2015 the salary of experienced workers has shifted to approximately US$87,000 (£59,911.17) As of January 17, 2020, the average annual pay for a game designer in the United States is $130,000 a year.


== Disciplines ==


=== World design ===

World design is the creation of a backstory, setting and theme for the game; often done by a lead designer. World design can also be the creation of a universe or a map, as well as topics or areas that are likely to be pursued by the player. It is a map referenced for creation of everything as it shows where it is and allows for the most logistical design in any given game. World design shapes the direction the game goes towards.


=== System design ===
System design is the creation of game rules and u

--- SEMANTIC NEIGHBORS (5) ---

  Title: Design director (similarity: 0.4571)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Design_director
  QID: Q6342372
  Extract: A design director is a position found within the software development, web development, product design, advertising, media, automotive or movie industries. It may be useful in other product focused organizations as well. The duties are similar to those of a creative instructor but with greater empha

  Title: Design (similarity: 0.4615)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Design
  QID: Q82604
  Extract: A design is the concept or proposal for an object, process, or system. The word design refers to something that is or has been intentionally created by a thinking agent, and is sometimes used to refer to the inherent nature of something – its design. The verb to design expresses the process of devel

  Title: Director (similarity: 0.2857)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Director
  QID: Q3708947
  Extract: Director may refer to:

  Title: Mike Robinson (designer) (similarity: 0.5000)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mike_Robinson_(designer)
  QID: Q3857452
  Extract: Michael Vernon Robinson is an American automobile designer. In January 2014 he left the position of Brand and Design Director of Bertone after its financial crises, to become design director of ED Design, and then Head of Design at BLUE Engineering s.r.l. in Turin, Italy.

  Title: Fashion design (similarity: 0.5294)
  URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fashion_design
  QID: Q29583
  Extract: Fashion design is the art of applying design, aesthetics, clothing construction, and natural beauty to clothing and its accessories. It is influenced by diverse cultures and different trends and has varied over time and place. "A fashion designer creates clothing, including dresses, suits, pants, sk

model_pass1          : claude-sonnet-4-20250514
model_pass2          : claude-haiku-4-5-20251001
inference_confidence : high
confidence_notes     : Strong data consistency across O*NET work activities, skills, and knowledge areas with clear Wikipedia validation. BLS wage data provides reliable market intelligence with substantial employment base of 113,330 professionals.
inferred_at          : 2026-06-03T14:04:13.919234+00:00
tokens_input         : 4,424
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cost_usd             : $0.048786
wikipedia_used       : True
wikipedia_title      : Video game design
wikipedia_note       : Wikipedia confirms this occupation involves designing rules, content, gameplay, environment, storyline and characters across pre-production and production stages. The article validates the multidisciplinary nature including world design, level design, system design, and user interface design mentioned in O*NET data.

--- PROSE FIELDS ---

ROLE SUMMARY:
Video game designers create the fundamental structure and features of video games, including storylines, character development, gameplay mechanics, and user experiences. They collaborate with production teams to transform creative concepts into playable games that achieve both critical acclaim and commercial success. According to O*NET, these professionals specify innovative game mechanics, maintain design documentation, and guide production staff through the development process.

DAY IN THE LIFE:
Video game designers spend their time thinking creatively to devise missions, challenges, and puzzles that players will encounter during gameplay. They balance and adjust gameplay experiences through regular design reviews and testing to ensure optimal player engagement. A significant portion of their day involves working with computers to create and maintain detailed design documentation, including mechanics guidelines, mission outlines, and gameplay flowcharts. They frequently communicate with supervisors, peers, and subordinates to solicit feedback on design features and provide guidance to production staff regarding technical game qualities. Designers also create core game features such as storylines and character biographies while managing documentation, production schedules, and prototyping goals in collaboration with development teams.

WHO THRIVES:
Successful video game designers possess high levels of fluency of ideas and originality, allowing them to generate innovative gameplay concepts and creative solutions to design challenges. They demonstrate strong intellectual curiosity and achievement orientation, constantly exploring new gaming trends and pushing the boundaries of interactive entertainment. Individuals who excel in this role have exceptional written and oral communication skills, as they must clearly document complex design concepts and collaborate effectively with diverse production teams. The profession attracts those with strong dependability and innovation work styles, as game development requires both consistent execution and creative risk-taking to create compelling player experiences.

CAREER ENTRY:
Most video game designers enter the field with a bachelor's degree (55% according to O*NET education data), typically in game design, computer science, or related technical fields. However, the industry shows flexibility with 15% holding only high school diplomas, reflecting the importance of portfolio strength and demonstrated skills over formal credentials. Entry-level positions often require foundational knowledge in design principles, computers and electronics, and mathematics, along with proficiency in industry-standard tools like Adobe Creative Cloud software and programming languages such as C# and C++.

CAREER TRAJECTORY:
Video game designers can advance to senior design roles, design directors, or creative directors, leading entire game development projects and mentoring junior staff. Many transition into related leadership positions such as producers or directors within the entertainment industry, leveraging their project management and creative vision skills. The transferable skills in programming, complex problem solving, and systems analysis also enable career moves into broader software development or user experience design roles across the technology sector.

MARKET INTELLIGENCE:
Video game designers earn a median annual salary of $104,000 (BLS OEWS May 2025) with significant geographic variation, ranging from $31,200 in Guam to $136,110 in California. The field employs 113,330 professionals nationally, with the strongest demand in California's tech hubs, reflecting the concentration of major game studios on the West Coast. Employment is heavily concentrated in the Information sector (35,430 employed) and Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services (33,430 employed), indicating robust demand across both entertainment companies and consulting firms. The 4.36x wage ratio between highest and lowest-paying locations demonstrates the premium placed on talent in major gaming markets. Job Zone 4 classification indicates considerable preparation is needed, supporting the strong wage premiums for experienced professionals.

AUTOMATION OUTLOOK:
Video game design shows moderate resistance to automation due to the high importance of creative thinking (4.9 importance, 6.4 level) and the need for originality and fluency of ideas in developing engaging player experiences. While some documentation and testing processes may become more automated, the core creative work of devising storylines, character development, and innovative gameplay mechanics requires human creativity and cultural understanding that current AI cannot replicate effectively.

--- REASONED EDGES ---
  [skill_overlap] Web and Digital Interface Designers (15-1255.00) — confidence:high
    reasoning: Both roles share high importance in Active Listening (3.9), Reading Comprehension (3.8), and Critical Thinking (3.8) with similar proficiency levels in user experience design.
    data: Active Listening imp:3.9
    data: Reading Comprehension imp:3.8
    data: Critical Thinking imp:3.8
    data: Design knowledge imp:4.3
  [riasec_cluster] Special Effects Artists and Animators (27-1014.00) — confidence:high
    reasoning: Both occupations show strong Artistic orientation (Video Game Designers A:6.38) and require high levels of Originality (4.0 importance) and creative thinking abilities.
    data: RIASEC A:6.38
    data: Originality imp:4.0
    data: Thinking Creatively imp:4.9
    data: Fluency of Ideas imp:4.1
  [knowledge_overlap] Web Developers (15-1254.00) — confidence:high
    reasoning: Shared technical foundation with high importance in Computers and Electronics knowledge (4.2) and Programming transferable skills (4.0 importance).
    data: Computers and Electronics imp:4.2
    data: Programming imp:4.0
    data: Working with Computers imp:4.8
  [transferable_skill] Software Developers (15-1252.00) — confidence:medium
    reasoning: Both roles require Complex Problem Solving (3.6) and Systems Analysis (3.4) with similar technical documentation and development processes.
    data: Complex Problem Solving imp:3.6
    data: Systems Analysis imp:3.4
    data: Programming imp:4.0
  [task_similarity] Graphic Designers (27-1024.00) — confidence:medium
    reasoning: Both create visual documentation and design materials, sharing Design knowledge (4.3 importance) and creative thinking processes.
    data: Design knowledge imp:4.3
    data: Thinking Creatively imp:4.9
    data: Adobe Creative Cloud tools
  [career_pathway] Producers and Directors (27-2012.00) — confidence:medium
    reasoning: Video game designers often advance to producer/director roles, sharing project management responsibilities and creative vision leadership.
    data: Making Decisions and Solving Problems imp:4.7
    data: Communicating with Supervisors imp:4.3
    data: Achievement Orientation imp:3.0

--- NORMALIZER SIGNALS ---
  match_keywords   : ['video game designer', 'game designer', 'game developer', 'game design', 'gameplay designer', 'level designer', 'game mechanics', 'game content creator']
  exclude_keywords : ['game tester', 'quality assurance', 'game programmer', 'software engineer', 'game artist']
  title_patterns   : ['*Game Designer*', '*Video Game*', '*Game Design*', '*Game Developer*', '*Game Content*']
  common_variations: ['computer game designer', 'video game developer', 'game design specialist', 'interactive game designer', 'digital game designer', 'mobile game designer', 'game design consultant', 'gameplay designer']

total_terms    : 40
top_words      : ['game', 'design', 'others', 'designer', 'tendency', 'video', 'designers', 'production', 'development', 'games', 'equipment', 'gameplay', 'features', 'ideas', 'principles', 'rules', 'player', 'creative', 'writing', 'includes']
source_layers  : onet_tasks | onet_dimensions | dwas | wikipedia | inference

TERM                    COUNT     FREQ  DOMINANT SOURCE      SOURCE BREAKDOWN
──────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────────
game                      162  0.03691  wikipedia            wikipedia:78%  onet_tasks:9%  inference:9%
design                    149  0.03395  wikipedia            wikipedia:68%  inference:11%  onet_tasks:9%
others                     49  0.01116  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:78%  dwas:16%  wikipedia:6%
designer                   48  0.01094  wikipedia            wikipedia:100%
tendency                   42  0.00957  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
video                      40  0.00911  wikipedia            wikipedia:62%  inference:20%  dwas:15%
designers                  29  0.00661  wikipedia            wikipedia:72%  inference:24%  onet_tasks:3%
production                 28  0.00638  wikipedia            wikipedia:36%  onet_dimensions:29%  inference:25%
development                26  0.00592  wikipedia            wikipedia:58%  inference:27%  onet_tasks:8%
games                      24  0.00547  wikipedia            wikipedia:92%  inference:8%
equipment                  23  0.00524  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
gameplay                   22  0.00501  wikipedia            wikipedia:45%  inference:32%  onet_tasks:23%
features                   17  0.00387  dwas                 dwas:35%  onet_tasks:24%  wikipedia:18%
ideas                      17  0.00387  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:65%  wikipedia:18%  inference:12%
principles                 17  0.00387  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:94%  inference:6%
rules                      16  0.00364  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:50%  wikipedia:44%  inference:6%
player                     16  0.00364  wikipedia            wikipedia:81%  inference:19%
creative                   14  0.00319  inference            inference:57%  wikipedia:29%  onet_tasks:7%
writing                    14  0.00319  wikipedia            wikipedia:50%  onet_dimensions:43%  onet_tasks:7%
includes                   14  0.00319  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:86%  wikipedia:14%
elements                   14  0.00319  wikipedia            wikipedia:100%
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technical                  13  0.00296  onet_tasks           onet_tasks:31%  onet_dimensions:23%  wikipedia:23%
software                   13  0.00296  wikipedia            wikipedia:38%  onet_dimensions:23%  dwas:15%
control                    13  0.00296  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:92%  wikipedia:8%
details                    13  0.00296  dwas                 dwas:77%  onet_dimensions:15%  wikipedia:8%
procedures                 12  0.00273  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:67%  dwas:25%  wikipedia:8%
objects                    12  0.00273  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:100%
lead                       12  0.00273  wikipedia            wikipedia:83%  onet_dimensions:17%
user                       12  0.00273  wikipedia            wikipedia:67%  inference:25%  onet_dimensions:8%
technology                 11  0.00251  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:36%  dwas:27%  wikipedia:18%
techniques                 11  0.00251  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:91%  onet_tasks:9%
tools                      11  0.00251  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:45%  wikipedia:45%  inference:9%
team                       11  0.00251  wikipedia            wikipedia:91%  onet_dimensions:9%
product                    10  0.00228  wikipedia            wikipedia:70%  onet_dimensions:20%  onet_tasks:10%
documentation              10  0.00228  inference            inference:40%  onet_tasks:20%  wikipedia:20%
goals                      10  0.00228  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:60%  wikipedia:20%  onet_tasks:10%
management                 10  0.00228  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:70%  onet_tasks:20%  inference:10%
quality                    10  0.00228  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:60%  wikipedia:30%  onet_tasks:10%
resources                  10  0.00228  onet_dimensions      onet_dimensions:90%  wikipedia:10%