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Game Design Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

PUBG Madglory

Mid-Level/Senior Animator

Madison, WI · On-site +1

$106K - $121K/yr

Understands movement not just as staging but as a gameplay element. * Can design the play experience through timing and responsiveness. * Able to communicate a character's emotions, weight, and ...

PUBG Madglory

Principal Concept Artist

Madison, WI · On-site +1

$128K - $147K/yr

Collaborate with Art Directors, Design, and 3D teams to ensure concepts are realized in the final in-game output. * Review work from team members and outsource artists and provide clear feedback.

FLOOR360

In-House Flooring Installer

Madison, WI

$20/hr

... Design for a Difference Wellness Program - Catered lunch and learns Friendly Culture - Mallards game, Brewers game, volleyball team, chili cook-off and more Team Discounts - Substantial savings on ...

PUBG Madglory

Senior Product Marketing Manager

Madison, WI · On-site

$121K - $159K/yr

After the release of our flagship title in 2017 we have become one of the highest selling games of ... Design and operate platform-specific campaigns across all major platforms (PlayStation, Xbox, and ...

PUBG Madglory

Senior Product Marketing Manager

Madison, WI · On-site +1

$121K - $159K/yr

After the release of our flagship title in 2017 we have become one of the highest selling games of ... Design and operate platform-specific campaigns across all major platforms (PlayStation, Xbox, and ...

Shine United

Account Executive

Madison, WI · On-site

You are an experienced agency account executive who loves the advertising game. You know the basics ... Shine United is a $51 million advertising, design and digital agency located in America's Heartland ...

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All JobsGame Design JobsGame Design Jobs in Madison, WI

Game Design information

See Madison, WI salary details

$47.4K

$157.2K

How much do game design jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for game design in Madison, WI is $150,255.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $156,200.00 and $156,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is game design?

Game design is the process of creating the content and rules of a game, including its mechanics, story, characters, and overall player experience. Game designers develop the structure and features of a game, decide how it will be played, and work closely with artists, programmers, and other team members to bring the game to life. Their goal is to make engaging, balanced, and enjoyable experiences for players. Game design can apply to video games, board games, and other interactive entertainment.

What jobs are in game design?

Jobs in game design include roles such as game designer, level designer, narrative designer, and systems designer. These positions involve creating game concepts, designing gameplay mechanics, developing storylines, and collaborating with artists and programmers. Skills in software tools like Unity or Unreal Engine and understanding of game development processes are often required.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Game Designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Game Designer, you need a strong grasp of game mechanics, storytelling, user experience, and typically a degree in game design or a related field. Familiarity with game engines like Unity or Unreal Engine, scripting languages, and prototyping tools is crucial. Creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving are standout soft skills for this role. These abilities are essential for developing engaging, innovative games that resonate with players and meet project goals.

What is the 80 20 rule in game design?

In game design, the 80/20 rule suggests that roughly 80% of player engagement or feedback comes from 20% of the game features or content. Game designers often focus on optimizing this core 20% to improve player experience and retention, using tools like playtesting and analytics to identify key elements. Prioritizing these aspects helps create more engaging and balanced games efficiently.

What is the difference between Game Design vs Game Development?

AspectGame DesignGame Development
Primary FocusCreating game concepts, mechanics, and user experienceImplementing, coding, and building the game based on design
Skills RequiredCreativity, storytelling, understanding of gameplay mechanicsProgramming, software engineering, technical problem-solving
Work EnvironmentDesign studios, creative teams, collaborative settingsDevelopment teams, technical environments, coding labs
Common CertificationsGame design degrees, UX/UI certificationsComputer science, software engineering degrees

Game Design focuses on conceptualizing and designing gameplay experiences, while Game Development involves the technical implementation and coding of those designs. Both roles are essential in the game creation process and often collaborate closely to produce engaging games.

Is game designer a good career?

A game designer creates the concepts, rules, and mechanics for video games, often working with teams using tools like Unity or Unreal Engine. The career can be rewarding for those with strong creativity, technical skills, and a passion for gaming, but it can also involve long hours and competitive entry. Job prospects depend on industry demand, experience, and portfolio quality.

How do game designers typically collaborate with other departments during the development process?

Game designers work closely with artists, programmers, writers, and audio engineers to ensure that the gameplay experience aligns with the creative vision and technical constraints of the project. Regular meetings, feedback sessions, and iterative prototyping are common, allowing designers to communicate their ideas and adjust designs based on input from other team members. This collaborative environment helps address challenges such as balancing gameplay mechanics and ensuring that all elements integrate smoothly. Strong communication and flexibility are essential for success in this role.

How do you get a job as a game designer?

To become a game designer, you typically need a strong portfolio demonstrating your design skills, knowledge of game development tools like Unity or Unreal Engine, and a background in game design, computer science, or related fields. Gaining experience through internships, personal projects, or entry-level roles can also improve your chances of securing a position in the industry.
What cities near Madison, WI are hiring for Game Design jobs? Cities near Madison, WI with the most Game Design job openings:
Game Design jobs near you
Infographic showing various Game Design job openings in Madison, WI as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 4% Summer. Highlights an 74% In-person, 7% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $150,255 per year, or $72.2 per hour.

Senior Game Designer - AI & Encounters (Apex Legends)

Electronic Arts Inc.

Madison, WI • On-site

$127K - $190K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

General Information
Locations: Vancouver - Great Northern Way, British Columbia, Canada
  • Location: Los Angeles - Chatsworth
  • State: California
  • Country: United States of America

  • Location: Madison
  • State: Wisconsin
  • Country: United States of America

Role ID
214845
Worker Type
Regular Employee
Studio/Department
EA Studios - Respawn
Work Model
Hybrid
Description & Requirements
Electronic Arts creates next-level entertainment experiences that inspire players and fans around the world. Here, everyone is part of the story. Part of a community that connects across the globe. A place where creativity thrives, new perspectives are invited, and ideas matter. A team where everyone makes play happen.
We're hiring a Senior Game Designer - AI & Encounters to create engaging AI-driven combat encounters that elevate gameplay across Apex Legends. You will partner with multidisciplinary teams to design, implement, and refine encounters that deliver challenge, variety, and memorable player experiences while supporting the game's long-term vision.
Responsibilities
  • Design, prototype, tune, and iterate on AI encounters from initial concept through implementation and once live.
  • Create encounter scenarios that support gameplay, pacing, and player progression.
  • Collaborate with AI Engineering, Level Design, Art, and Production to deliver gameplay features.
  • Balance AI behaviors using playtest feedback, gameplay metrics, and player insights.
  • Document encounter systems, design intent, and implementation guidelines.
  • Review gameplay experiences and iterate to improve quality, readability, and player satisfaction.
  • Mentor designers through design reviews and collaborative feedback.
Required Qualifications
  • Experience designing AI systems, encounters, or combat gameplay for shipped AAA titles.
  • Experience owning gameplay features from concept through release.
  • Experience collaborating with multidisciplinary development teams.
  • Portfolio demonstrating encounter design, gameplay systems, or AI-focused work.
  • Experience balancing gameplay using qualitative and quantitative feedback.
Core Skills and Experience
  • Knowledge of AI enemy design, combatant archetypes, and encounter pacing.
  • Proficient in scripting and programming tools to implement systems within modern game editors.
  • Clear documentation and communication across design and development teams.
  • Experience evaluating gameplay through playtesting and data-informed iteration.
  • Familiarity with live service development and ongoing gameplay improvements.
  • Experience designing AI systems or encounters for PvP or PvE gameplay is an asset.

Pay Transparency - North America
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS
The ranges listed below are what EA in good faith expects to pay applicants for this role in these locations at the time of this posting. If you reside in a different location, a recruiter will advise on the applicable range and benefits. Pay offered will be determined based on a number of relevant business and candidate factors (e.g. education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, geographic location, or business needs).
PAY RANGES
* British Columbia (depending on location e.g. Vancouver vs. Victoria) *$114,300 - $156,200 CAD
* California (depending on location e.g. Los Angeles vs. San Francisco) *$127,700 - $190,600 USD
Pay is just one part of the overall compensation at EA.
In the US, we offer a package of benefits including paid time off (3 weeks per year to start), 80 hours per year of sick time, 16 paid company holidays per year, 10 weeks paid time off to bond with baby, medical/dental/vision insurance, life insurance, disability insurance, and 401(k) to regular full-time employees. Certain roles may also be eligible for bonus and equity.
For Canada, we offer a package of benefits including vacation (3 weeks per year to start), 10 days per year of sick time, paid top-up to EI/QPIP benefits up to 100% of base salary when you welcome a new child (12 weeks for maternity, and 4 weeks for parental/adoption leave), extended health/dental/vision coverage, life insurance, disability insurance, retirement plan to regular full-time employees. Certain roles may also be eligible for bonus and equity.
About Electronic Arts
We're proud to have an extensive portfolio of games and experiences, locations around the world, and opportunities across EA. We value adaptability, resilience, creativity, and curiosity. From leadership that brings out your potential, to creating space for learning and experimenting, we empower you to do great work and pursue opportunities for growth.
We adopt a holistic approach to our benefits programs, emphasizing physical, emotional, financial, career, and community wellness to support a balanced life. Our packages are tailored to meet local needs and may include healthcare coverage, mental well-being support, retirement savings, paid time off, family leaves, complimentary games, and more. We nurture environments where our teams can always bring their best to what they do.
Electronic Arts is an equal opportunity employer. All employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, national origin, ancestry, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, genetic information, religion, disability, medical condition, pregnancy, marital status, family status, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We will also consider employment qualified applicants with criminal records in accordance with applicable law. EA also makes workplace accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities as required by applicable law.

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