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Freelance Game Developer Remote Jobs in Chicago, IL

Wand

Creative Strategist, Paid Media

Chicago, IL · Remote

$80K - $140K/yr

Direct freelancers, editors, designers, creators, and agency partners. * Build sharp briefs that ... Fully remote work. Join us in creating the ultimate PC gaming companion. Wand is an equal ...

Catylist

Java/Web Developer

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Consulting/freelance is not your bag. You prefer to maintain and improve the products you've built rather than hand them off and move on. This is a full-time, 40 hours per week, remote, W2 position ...

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All JobsGame Developer JobsFreelance Game Developer Remote JobsFreelance Game Developer Remote Jobs in Chicago, IL

Freelance Game Developer Remote information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$33.5K

$111.7K

$185.4K

How much do freelance game developer remote jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance game developer remote in Chicago, IL is $111,741.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,000.00 and $127,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance game developer remote?

To thrive as a Freelance Game Developer (Remote), you need strong programming skills (such as C++, C#, or JavaScript), game design expertise, and a solid portfolio demonstrating completed projects. Familiarity with popular game engines like Unity or Unreal Engine, version control systems (e.g., Git), and knowledge of platform-specific deployment are essential technical qualifications. Exceptional communication, self-motivation, and time management skills help you collaborate with clients and teams across different locations. These competencies ensure you can efficiently deliver high-quality games while maintaining client satisfaction and meeting project deadlines.

What are some common challenges freelance game developers face when working remotely, and how can they be managed?

Freelance game developers working remotely often encounter challenges such as coordinating with clients across different time zones, managing project scope changes, and ensuring clear communication with team members. To manage these issues, it's important to establish regular check-ins, use collaborative tools like Slack or Trello, and set clear expectations regarding deliverables and deadlines. Building a routine and creating a dedicated workspace can also help maintain productivity and work-life balance.

What is the difference between Freelance Game Developer Remote vs Freelance Game Designer Remote?

AspectFreelance Game Developer RemoteFreelance Game Designer Remote
Required SkillsProgramming, coding, software developmentCreativity, storytelling, visual design
Work EnvironmentRemote, project-basedRemote, project-based
Industry UsageDevelops game mechanics, code, and softwareDesigns game concepts, levels, and user experience

While both roles work remotely and often on a freelance basis, game developers focus on coding and software creation, whereas game designers concentrate on game concepts and user experience. Understanding these differences helps clients find the right freelancer for their project needs.

What is a freelance game developer remote?

A Freelance Game Developer (Remote) is a professional who designs, develops, and programs video games while working independently and remotely, typically for various clients or studios. They may be responsible for coding, creating assets, game mechanics, testing, and sometimes project management. Working remotely allows them to collaborate with teams or clients across different locations using online tools. Freelance game developers often manage their own schedules and workloads, providing flexibility but also requiring strong self-motivation and communication skills.
What are the most commonly searched types of Game Developer Remote jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Game Developer Remote jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Freelance Game Developer Remote jobs in Chicago, IL? For Freelance Game Developer Remote jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Freelance Game Developer Remote jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Freelance Game Developer Remote jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Freelance Game Developer Remote jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Freelance Game Developer Remote job openings:
Freelance Game Developer Remote jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Game Developer Remote job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 69% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,741 per year, or $53.7 per hour.

Game Developer (Java / libGDX) - Remote

micro1 AI

Chicago, IL • Remote

$20 - $120/hr

Part-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Job Title: Junior Game Developer (Java / libGDX)


Job Type: Contractor


Location: Remote


Job Summary: In this role, you'll apply your expertise to help train next-generation AI systems. Your work will shape how models learn, reason, and perform through high-quality, real-world input. No prior experience in AI is required — your domain knowledge is what matters.


Key Responsibilities:

  1. Develop, maintain, and optimize simple 2D game features using Java and libGDX frameworks.
  2. Collaborate closely with AI specialists to design engaging game interactions and collect high-quality training data.
  3. Implement basic game mechanics including sprite management, game loops, and input handling.
  4. Troubleshoot and debug code to ensure optimal performance and reliability of game modules.
  5. Participate in code reviews and contribute to the improvement of internal coding standards.
  6. Document technical processes and game development workflows clearly for cross-functional teams.
  7. Communicate effectively with team members, providing regular status updates and seeking feedback.



Required Skills and Qualifications:

  1. Basic knowledge of Java programming and object-oriented principles.
  2. Hands-on experience with libGDX through coursework, personal projects, or prototypes.
  3. Understanding of fundamental game development concepts such as game loops, sprites, and input management.
  4. Strong written and verbal communication skills, with a focus on clear technical documentation.
  5. Ability to work collaboratively in a fully remote team environment.
  6. Demonstrated interest and initiative in building games or interactive applications.
  7. Willingness to complete an AI interview as part of the selection process.



Preferred Qualifications:

  1. Portfolio of small games or demo projects (GitHub links or playable demos encouraged).
  2. Familiarity with vectors, collision detection, or basic 2D physics.
  3. Experience using Git for version control and collaborative development.

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