Game Designer Intern

About the Role

Respawn Entertainment is seeking a Game Designer Intern to join the Apex Legends Arcade design team, specifically focused on Modes for Summer 2027. This role involves working directly within the multiplayer framework to assist in the conceptualization, development, and implementation of systems that keep the game fresh, engaging, and balanced.

Key Responsibilities

• LTM Prototyping: Assist in the conceptual loop and rapid prototyping of Limited Time Modes (LTMs), seasonal events, and creative sandbox changes.
• Gameplay Scripting: Utilize scripting languages and game engine tools to hook up mode-specific logic, tweak ability or weapon parameters, construct loot-table distributions, and handle zone configurations.
• Systems Balancing: Work closely with other Designers to monitor, review, and fine-tune live telemetry (Loot, Ring Pacing, Mode performance) to make strategic adjustments and improve the experience.
• Playtesting & Validation: Accumulate and synthesize qualitative game mode feedback and identify critical scripting edge-case bugs.
• Quality of Life: Assist in identifying quality of life opportunities across all Arcade experiences, working with the Arcade Design Director and Lead Designers to prioritize and implement high-value changes.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• Technical Proficiency: Demonstrated experience using commercial game engine pipelines (such as Unreal Engine or Unity) paired with functional programming or scripting experience (C++, C#, Blueprints, or Python).
• Design Portfolio: A comprehensive online portfolio demonstrating functional gameplay work, including tangible examples of systemic mechanics, balance maps, or custom multiplayer scripts (e.g., custom mod frameworks, Overwatch Workshop setups, Fortnite Creative game rules, or standalone logic prototypes).
• Genre Familiarity: Intense tactical knowledge of the First-Person Shooter (FPS) and Battle Royale landscapes, with an analytical perspective on gunplay, hero configurations, and squad mechanics.

Qualifications

• Student Status: Currently enrolled in a Bachelor’s Degree granting program with an anticipated graduation date no earlier than December 2027. Programs in Computer Science, Game Design, or equivalent quantitative/creative tracks are preferred. Must return to studies upon completion of the internship.
• Legal Authorization: Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the US on a full-time basis during the 12-week internship. Visa sponsorship is not available.
• Ensure your graduation date is visible on your resume.

Bonus Points

• Experience analyzing foundational mathematical odds, drop matrices, or variance curves.
• Familiarity working with multiplayer networking constraints or client/server replication loops.