Contact
*********@*****.***
www.linkedin.com/in/ian-goldsmith-7b1b708a (LinkedIn)
Summary
Hi, I'm a passionate gamer and storyteller who loves games like Dungeons and Dragons and Pathfinder. I have been a Dungeon Master for over 15 years, creating immersive and engaging worlds for my players to explore. I enjoy designing the various organizations that inhabit these worlds, each with their own goals, motivations, and conflicts. I have a BA in Game Design and a BS in Game Programming from the University of Advancing Technologies. I have been working with the Unreal Engine since 2014, using both C++ and Blueprints to build games and game systems. I am motivated to create amazing games that are enjoyed by players all over the world. Experience
Top Skills
Game Design
Level Design
World Building
Visual Scripting
C++
Team Management
Game Developer
@ Small Indie Company Game Design
Maricopa, Arizona, United States
Unreal Engine Game Developer
Small Indie Company LLC, Remote
Dec 2022 - Present
Designed and implemented gameplay mechanics, systems, and features using Unreal Engine Blueprints and C++, contributing to the development of We the People.
Collaborated with artists, animators, and designers to integrate assets and ensure visual fidelity and gameplay functionality.
Optimized game performance through profiling and debugging, achieving smooth frame rates and efficient resource usage on target platforms.
Conducted code reviews and provided technical guidance to junior developers, fostering knowledge sharing and team growth.
Implemented and maintained multiplayer features, including networking, matchmaking, and server-side logic, enhancing player engagement and scalability.
QA Tester III
Experis Game Solutions, Tempe, AZ
Mar 2020 - Present
Conducted comprehensive testing of pre-release game builds across various platforms to identify and report bugs, usability issues, and gameplay inconsistencies.
Collaborated closely with development teams to execute test plans, ensuring adherence to quality standards and timely bug resolution.
Documented detailed test cases and provided clear, actionable feedback to improve game mechanics, user interface, and overall player experience.
Participated in multiplayer and single-player testing scenarios to assess game balance, progression, and narrative coherence.
Contributed to the refinement of testing processes and procedures, enhancing efficiency and accuracy in identifying and resolving issues during development cycles.
Lead Game Designer
LavaBear Studios LLC, Tempe, AZ
May 2017 - Dec 2019
Led a team of 5 designers in the conceptualization, design, and implementation of game mechanics, systems, and content for Island Survivor and fireBreak.
Developed and communicated game design documentation, including design briefs, feature specifications, and gameplay mechanics, ensuring alignment with project goals and vision.
Collaborated closely with cross-functional teams, including artists, programmers, and producers, to integrate design elements and maintain creative vision throughout development cycles.
Conducted playtesting sessions and iterated on gameplay mechanics based on user feedback and usability testing, optimizing player engagement and retention.
Mentored and coached junior designers, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement within the design team.
Education
University of Advancing Technology
Bachelor of Arts - BA & BS, Game Design and Game Programming ·
(September 2013 - May 2017)