Discover the different directions in game design: systems design, narrative design, level design, UX design, and more. Understand the tasks involved and figure out which niche best matches your interests and strengths.
Game design is not one-size-fits-all - many designers combine roles depending on their skillset and project needs. If one specialization feels too narrow, it's common (and often necessary) to mix disciplines.
Below, you’ll find a skill-based table to help you identify your natural direction - whether you're analytical, visual, empathetic, structural, or abstract in your thinking.
Spealties & Skills
Area | Main Skills | You Might Be Good If… | Often Paired With | Common Platforms / Genres |
Systems thinking, abstraction, loops, logic | You enjoy building mechanics and gameplay loops from scratch | Balance, Combat, Technical | Strategy, RPG, Sandbox, Simulation (PC/Console) | |
Math, tuning, spreadsheets, modeling | You like tweaking variables to make games fair, fun, and scalable | Systems, LiveOps, Economy | Mobile, Competitive, RPG, F2P | |
Interaction flow, clarity, layout, feedback | You love making interfaces intuitive and guiding players without frustration | Systems, UI, Technical | Mobile, RPG, Simulation, Casual | |
Math, animation timing, synergy, feedback | You care about game feel and tactical depth in combat encounters | Systems, Level, Technical | RPG, Action, Tactical | |
Space logic, flow, pacing, readability | You think in maps and how players move through them | Encounter, Combat, Narrative | Action, Puzzle, Platformer, Adventure | |
Writing, pacing, integration, environmental logic | You like building quests, dialogues, and lore that connect smoothly to core gameplay | Narrative, Level, Combat | RPG, Adventure, Action | |
Scenario logic, storytelling, scripting | You enjoy creating engaging quests, puzzles, or interactive challenges | Narrative, Level, Combat | RPG, Adventure, Action | |
Writing, structure, branching dialogue | You love characters, storytelling, and emotional pacing | Encounter, World, Level | RPG, Adventure, Visual Novel | |
Analytics, segmentation, player behavior | You enjoy crafting events and tuning retention/progression | Balance, Systems, Economy | Mobile, F2P, Multiplayer | |
Logic, scripting, tools, optimization | You like bridging design and code, and making tools for other designers | System, Combat, Level | All genres (Unity/Unreal-heavy projects) |
Can you combine specializations?
✅ Yes. Many designers combine 2-3 areas - for example, Narrative + UX or System + Level.
What matters is understanding the focus of each discipline and how they interact.
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