Game Economy Designer - (M/W/NB)

As a Game Economy Designer at Ubisoft, your primary responsibilities include crafting the balancing of game loops and progression systems under the guidance of the Creative and Live Operations Directors. This involves implementing configuration parameters, designing key documentation, and creating tools to facilitate these processes. You will also conduct data-driven analysis to optimize gameplay, and redefine specifications for configuration pipelines to improve the overall efficiency and quality of game experience.

Candidates looking to join Ubisoft as a Game Economy Designer should demonstrate a strong background with at least three years of experience in economic game design, particularly in free-to-play RPG games. A specialized education in economic game design is preferred, along with in-depth knowledge of mobile players' behaviors and experience working in collaborative game development environments. Passion for gaming and familiarity with MMORPGs will also give you an edge in this role.

At Ubisoft, Game Economy Designers utilize various tools for tracking and calculating game parameters such as Excel tables and simulation software. They work to enhance these tools to support designers in creating balanced game experiences. The position may also involve using project management tools to keep the workflow organized and aligned with the development pipeline.

The recruitment process for the Game Economy Designer position at Ubisoft involves multiple stages to ensure a good fit. Initially, applicants have a 45-minute video call with a recruiter, followed by a 60-minute interview with the Director and another 60-minute session with a team member. This thorough approach allows candidates to showcase their skills and passion while getting to know the team's culture.

Ubisoft offers a comprehensive range of benefits to its Game Economy Designers, including profit sharing, a yearly company savings plan, and additional paid time off. Employees enjoy perks such as healthcare coverage, paid transport passes, and gym access. Work-life balance is also prioritized, putting emphasis on flexible work arrangements to help team members thrive both personally and professionally.

When balancing game economy systems, it's essential to analyze player data and behavior comprehensively. Start by identifying the sources and sinks within the game loop. Using analytical tools, simulate various scenarios to see how changes might affect player retention and monetization. Establish clear KPIs to measure success and iterate based on feedback and live data.

In previous roles, I worked on developing a monetization model for a mobile RPG. By analyzing player feedback and spending patterns, I crafted a tiered rewards system that incentivized players to engage more deeply with the game. Continuous monitoring ensured the model was flexible enough to adapt in real-time, resulting in increased player spend and retention.

When creating documentation for game loops, I focus on clarity and usability. This includes outlining the game mechanics, progression paths, and balancing calculations in a structured manner. I make sure that any team member can easily reference and understand the documentation, incorporating visual aids and examples where applicable to enhance comprehension.

Some of my favorite tools for economic game design include Excel for data manipulation, various game analytics platforms for player insights, and specialized simulation software for testing different economy scenarios. The combination allows for rigorous analysis and effective prototyping of design ideas before full implementation.

To keep game systems engaging, I advocate for ongoing analysis and iteration based on player behavior. This includes monitoring retention rates, user feedback, and in-game metrics. Regular updates or seasonal events can refresh the player experience, while new content keeps the community excited and invested.

Negative feedback is a valuable resource for improvement. I actively engage with player communities to understand their concerns and analyze the data behind their experiences. By responding with actionable changes, I ensure that players see their feedback leads to tangible improvements in the game, which can enhance player trust.

One of the greatest challenges in this role is balancing the often conflicting interests of monetization and player satisfaction. Striking the right balance requires careful consideration and willingness to adapt based on feedback and data. Engaging with both developers and the player community for insight helps navigate these challenges effectively.

Player data is crucial in the design process. I utilize analytic tools to gather and interpret gameplay metrics, which inform decisions regarding game loops and balancing. This data helps to identify trends, track player behavior, and highlight areas needing improvement, ensuring our creative visions align with player desires.

To optimize monetization, I would implement optional purchases that enhance the gaming experience without being intrusive. This includes value-driven offers and cosmetic items that encourage engagement. Feedback loops and A/B testing can help tweak strategies to ensure players feel their investments in the game are worthwhile.

Collaboration is at the heart of being a Game Economy Designer. Working closely with artists, developers, and other designers ensures that our economic strategies align with the overall gameplay objectives. Regular cross-departmental meetings allow us to share insights and enhance both the game's playability and monetization effectively.