Goodgame Studios is currently developing a new cross-platform 4X strategy game, built upon one of Europe’s most successful and long-standing strategy franchises. We are looking for a Game Design Director to define and shape the core player experience of this title – from gameplay loops to emotional onboarding moments. You will be the creative architect behind progression systems, core loops, economy balancing, and metagame structures – always aligned with monetization and user lifecycle strategy. Especially in the early game and first-time user experience (FTUE), you will play a decisive role in delivering a product that engages players emotionally and performs in the market. This is not a people management role. It is a high-impact, hands-on position, designed for an expert who moves fast, thinks clearly, and delivers design solutions with focus and ownership – in close collaboration with Monetization, Product, Tech, and especially Marketing. YOUR MISSION Use AI-powered tools and workflows (e.g. GPT, prototyping, system ideation) from day one to increase speed, structure, and creative output Define and own core gameplay loops, progression systems, and metagame mechanics – with a focus on retention, engagement, and monetization Build a cinematic and intuitive FTUE that blends gameplay, narrative, and brand identity seamlessly Create a compelling tutorial experience that onboards efficiently and emotionally Translate product goals into systemic game design, aligned with monetization and user lifecycle stages Work pragmatically and delivery-focused – you’re a builder, not a theorist Use tools like Unity, Confluence, Miro, and Excel fluently – and treat AI as a natural part of your design toolbox Collaborate closely with Marketing and UA teams to align FTUE and content flow with campaign messaging and conversion goals Set benchmarks for design documentation, system clarity, and interdisciplinary collaboration Ensure that the game performs at the level of genre leaders – in both emotional impact and gameplay structure YOUR BACKSTORY Proven success as a Lead Game Designer or Game Design Director in F2P mobile or cross-platform titles Strong expertise in 4X, strategy, or metagame-heavy systems with LiveOps integration Ability to bridge gameplay mechanics and business objectives with clarity A hands-on conceptual designer – analytically strong, creatively structured, and fast in execution You are fluent in AI-supported workflows and treat them as an essential part of your design process Skilled at collaborating with Monetization, Product, and Marketing functions No interest in managing people – but high interest in setting standards, building systems, and delivering value Deep understanding of FTUE design, branded storytelling, tutorial mechanics, and progression funnels WHY JOIN US? Take the lead in building a new high-potential 4X title backed by one of Europe’s strongest gaming IPs Own the core gameplay experience – from concept to launch – without team management responsibilities Work in a setup that enables clarity, speed, and creative authority Enjoy remote or hybrid work options, direct strategic visibility, and strong executive support Shape not just a game – but the long-term experience for a global audience of strategy players Stillfront Stillfront Group is one of Europe’s leading game publishers with a strong focus on long-term IP growth. Goodgame Studios is known for successful strategy titles and data-driven game development. In this role, you’ll define the next chapter of a major franchise – from the ground up, with full creative impact.