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Ai Game Programmer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lightspeed Studios

Lead Gameplay Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

... other game developers * Ability to work well in a fluid, changing environment as creative challenges evolve * Deep knowledge of gameplay systems involving AI, animation, physics, and ...

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Ai Game Programmer information

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$11K

$92.6K

$173.5K

How much do ai game programmer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for ai game programmer in the United States is $92,636.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24,000.00 and $145,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an AI game programmer?

AI Game Programmers are specialized software developers who design and implement artificial intelligence systems in video games. Their work focuses on creating believable behaviors for non-player characters (NPCs), enemy tactics, pathfinding, and decision-making processes that enhance the gaming experience. They collaborate closely with game designers and other programmers to ensure that the AI contributes to fun and engaging gameplay. AI Game Programmers often use techniques such as finite state machines, behavior trees, and machine learning to create dynamic and challenging game environments.

How does an AI game programmer typically collaborate with designers and artists during game development?

AI Game Programmers work closely with game designers to understand gameplay objectives and translate them into intelligent behaviors for non-player characters (NPCs). They also collaborate with artists to ensure that character animations and environmental cues align with AI behaviors, creating a more immersive player experience. Regular communication and iteration between these teams are essential, as AI systems often need to be tweaked based on playtesting feedback or changes in game design. This collaborative environment encourages creative problem-solving and ensures the AI enhances the overall vision of the game.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an AI game programmer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an AI Game Programmer, you need a solid background in computer science, proficiency in programming languages like C++ or Python, and a strong understanding of game development and artificial intelligence algorithms. Familiarity with game engines (such as Unity or Unreal Engine), version control systems (like Git), and experience with AI frameworks or middleware are typically required. Creativity, problem-solving, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for designing engaging and challenging in-game AI behaviors. These competencies ensure the creation of immersive and intelligent gameplay experiences, driving player enjoyment and game success.

What is the difference between Ai Game Programmer vs Gameplay Programmer?

AspectAi Game ProgrammerGameplay Programmer
Primary FocusDeveloping AI systems for non-player characters and game environmentsImplementing game mechanics and player interactions
Skills & CertificationsKnowledge of AI algorithms, scripting, C++/C#, game enginesProficiency in game scripting, C++, C#, game engines
Work EnvironmentGame studios, working closely with designers and AI specialistsGame studios, collaborating with designers and artists
Industry UsageCommon in AAA and indie game development focusing on intelligent behaviorsWidespread across all game types for core gameplay features

In summary, Ai Game Programmers specialize in creating intelligent behaviors for game characters and environments, while Gameplay Programmers focus on implementing core game mechanics and player interactions. Both roles require programming skills and work within game development teams, but their areas of expertise differ significantly.

How much do AI game programmers make?

AI game programmers typically earn between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of projects. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced developers with skills in machine learning and game engines can earn higher salaries.

How to become an AI game programmer?

To become an AI game programmer, you should have a strong foundation in programming languages such as C++ or Python, and knowledge of game development environments like Unity or Unreal Engine. Gaining experience in AI algorithms, machine learning, and game design through coursework, personal projects, or internships is essential. A bachelor's degree in computer science, software engineering, or a related field is typically required, along with proficiency in data structures and problem-solving skills.

What are popular job titles related to Ai Game Programmer jobs?

For Ai Game Programmer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Ai Game Programmer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 63% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 33% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,636 per year, or $44.5 per hour.

Software Engineer, Gameplay Combat - Unannounced Game

Irvine, CA • On-site

Blizzard Entertainment, Inc.
Arts, Entertainment, and Recreation • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about Blizzard Entertainment, Inc.external

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Blizzard Entertainment rating

9.3

Company rating: 9.3 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

3rd of 79 rated media

Job description

Team Name:
Unannounced Project
Job Title:
Software Engineer, Gameplay Combat - Unannounced Game
Requisition ID:
R028084
Job Description:
At Blizzard, we craft genre-defining games and legendary worlds for all to share. Through unparalleled creativity and storytelling, we create immersive universes and iconic characters that are beloved across platforms, borders, backgrounds, and generations, only made possible by building a work environment that cultivates the artistry of game development and unleashes the aspirations of our people.
We are looking for a Gameplay Engineer, Combat to help create the next generation of gameplay experiences in an unannounced title. You will be responsible for developing combat experiences, character behaviors, navigation systems, and gameplay technologies that make combat gameplay fun. Alongside a talented team of engineers, designers and artists, you will build the foundations that power engaging, responsive, and immersive gameplay.
This role offers a hybrid work week, with a mix of work-from-home and on-site days, based out of our Irvine, CA location.
This role includes, but is not limited to, the following responsibilities:
  • Develop and maintain combat systems supporting interactions between players and NPCs, with a strong emphasis on performance, scalability, and maintainability.

  • Partner with encounter, character, and system designers to transform gameplay goals into robust technical solutions.

  • Collaborate with designers, artists, animators, and gameplay engineers to implement polished combat experiences.

  • Identify performance bottlenecks, technical risks, and implementation challenges while proposing practical solutions.

  • Collaborate with cross-disciplinary and technical partners to diagnose issues and drive fixes to resolution.

Requirements
  • Minimum 5 years of experience in gameplay engineering or a combination of applicable training and related experience.

  • Contributions on action focused combat systems, NPC AI, navigation, or gameplay features on at least one shipped title.

  • Strong C++ programming skills, including performance analysis and optimization.

  • Experience delivering high-quality features as part of a cross-functional team including designers, artists, animators, level designers, FX artists, etc.

Bonus Points
  • Experience working with Unreal Engine

  • Experience and interest in character animation, navigation, combat or gameplay mechanics

  • Experience and interest in combat gameplay

  • Console development experience

Your Platform
At Blizzard Entertainment, we pour our hearts and souls into everything we create. Best known for iconic video game universes including Warcraft, Overwatch, Diablo, and StarCraft, we've been creating genre-defining games for millions of players around the world for more than 30 years. We're on a quest: bring our dreams to life and craft the most epic entertainment experiences...ever. Hard work, iteration, and polish go into the Blizzard "secret recipe," but the most important ingredients come from talented people who share our vision. If that sounds like you, join us.
Our World
Best known for iconic video game universes including Warcraft®, Overwatch®, Diablo®, and StarCraft®, Blizzard Entertainment, Inc., a division of Activision Blizzard, which was acquired by Microsoft (NASDAQ: MSFT), is a premier developer and publisher of entertainment experiences. Blizzard Entertainment has created some of the industry's most critically acclaimed and genre-defining games over the last 30 years, with a track record that includes multiple Game of the Year awards. Blizzard Entertainment engages tens of millions of players around the world with titles available on PC via Battle.net®, Xbox, PlayStation, Nintendo Switch, iOS, and Android.
Our ability to build immersive and innovative worlds is only enhanced by diverse teams working in an inclusive environment. We aspire to have a culture where everyone can thrive in order to connect and engage the world through epic entertainment. We provide a suite of benefits that promote physical, emotional, and financial well-being for Every World - we've got our employees covered.
Rewards
We provide a suite of benefits that promote physical, emotional and financial well-being for 'Every World' - we've got our employees covered! Subject to eligibility requirements, the Company offers comprehensive benefits including:
  • Medical, dental, vision, health savings account or health reimbursement account, healthcare spending accounts, dependent care spending accounts, life and AD&D insurance, disability insurance;
  • 401(k) with Company match, tuition reimbursement, charitable donation matching;
  • Paid holidays and vacation, paid sick time, floating holidays, compassion and bereavement leaves, parental leave;
  • Mental health & wellbeing programs, fitness programs, free and discounted games, and a variety of other voluntary benefit programs like supplemental life & disability, legal service, ID protection, rental insurance, and others;
  • If the Company requires that you move geographic locations for the job, then you may also be eligible for relocation assistance.

Eligibility to participate in these benefits may vary for part time and temporary full-time employees and interns with the Company. You can learn more by visiting https://www.benefitsforeveryworld.com/.
In the U.S., the standard base pay range for this role is $38.08 - $70.44 Hourly. These values reflect the expected base pay range of new hires across all U.S. locations. Ultimately, your specific range and offer will be based on several factors, including relevant experience, performance, and work location. Your Talent Professional can share this role's range details for your local geography during the hiring process. In addition to a competitive base pay, employees in this role may be eligible for incentive compensation. Incentive compensation is not guaranteed. While we strive to provide competitive offers to successful candidates, new hire compensation is negotiable.

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About Blizzard Entertainment

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Blizzard Entertainment is a globally recognized leader in the Digital Gaming industry, renowned for creating some of the world's most popular video games such as "World of Warcraft," "Overwatch," and "Diablo." The company was founded in 1991 and is currently based in Irvine, California, USA. Aside from creating engaging video games, Blizzard Entertainment also develops and supports a wide range of software products within the realm of entertainment. The company prides itself on its commitment to quality, an element that can be recognized in its vast array of legendary games. Notably, its creation, World of Warcraft, remains one of the highest-grossing video games of all time.

Industry

Arts, entertainment, and recreation

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Irvine, CA, US

Year founded

1991

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