Lead Game Designer/ Unreal Engine ( Dark Fantasy JRPG game)

Company Description

Forbidden Kemono Studio LLC is an indie game studio building character-driven PC games in Unreal Engine. We specialize in systems-heavy gameplay, including simulation and tycoon design, simulation-driven horror, RPG progression, and multiplayer-ready features. Our projects combine strong art direction, clear production pipelines, and replayable gameplay loops, with a focus on shipping real builds such as demos, vertical slices, and full releases.

Important Notice:

All positions at Forbidden Kemono Studio LLC are currently revenue-share based (no upfront pay). We are an independent studio building toward long-term profitability together.

Forbidden Blood is an in-development Unreal Engine project focused on gameplay systems, combat design, progression, and core mechanics. The project emphasizes strong gameplay foundations, player progression, and engaging systems that drive long-term player interaction.

We are looking for a Lead Game Designer to take ownership of the game’s design direction and help guide the team in building a cohesive and engaging gameplay experience.

As the Lead Game Designer, you will be responsible for defining and guiding the core gameplay experience of Forbidden Blood. This includes designing and refining systems, collaborating with programmers and artists, and ensuring all gameplay elements align with the project’s vision.

You will play a key leadership role in shaping the player experience and ensuring systems are implemented effectively within Unreal Engine.

• Lead the design and development of core gameplay systems
• Define and iterate on combat, progression, and player mechanics
• Create and maintain clear design documentation (GDD, system breakdowns, feature specs)
• Collaborate closely with gameplay programmers and artists
• Guide and support other designers on the team
• Analyze gameplay and iterate based on feedback and testing
• Ensure systems are cohesive, scalable, and aligned with the project vision
• Help establish design pipelines and workflows within the team

• Must be based in the United States or Canada
• Strong experience in game design (indie, professional, or shipped projects)
• Experience designing gameplay systems, progression, or combat mechanics
• Ability to lead design decisions and guide a team
• Strong communication and documentation skills
• Familiarity with Unreal Engine workflows
• Comfortable working in a remote, revenue-share environment
• Able to commit at least 10 hours per week

• Experience as a Lead Designer or Systems Designer
• Experience with combat design or RPG-style systems
• Knowledge of C or Blueprint scripting (Unreal Engine)
• Experience working on team-based game development projects
• Strong understanding of player progression and game loops

• Opportunity to lead design on an active Unreal Engine project
• Real leadership experience in a growing studio
• Revenue-share participation tied to project success
• Ability to shape core gameplay systems from early stages
• Long-term growth opportunities within Forbidden Kemono Studio

Please complete the application form below:

• https://www.jotform.com/app/forbidden-kemono-studio/forbidden-kemono-studio-job-applica