Game Programmer

Fireslug Studios is working on an exciting puzzler inspired by games like Papers, Please and Buckshot Roulette.

Note: Fireslug Studios is currently in a pre-funding stage, and our entire team is working remotely on a voluntary basis. We hope to offer paid in-house or freelance roles once we secure funding or on successful project release. We provide references and opportunities for portfolio development to those looking to build a career in the wider industry. Additionally, we arrange for sharing elements of your contributions professionally, subject to our non-disclosure agreement (NDA), regardless of the project’s completion state.

Role Overview:

Join our team in the final stages of production to help refine and optimise the gameplay experience as we approach completion. Working remotely, you'll collaborate closely with a multidisciplinary team to implement, iterate, and improve core systems and mechanics using C#. You will play a vital role in ensuring the game remains performant and bug-free, adapting to evolving requirements and tight deadlines. Your contributions will be key to the successful coordination between programmers, designers, and artists, ensuring a smooth and polished final product.

Responsibilities:

• Coding and Iteration: Write, maintain, and improve new and existing code for gameplay mechanics and systems using C#. Continuously iterate on existing features, ensuring efficient and scalable code implementation.
• Bug Fixing and Optimization: Identify, troubleshoot, and resolve bugs and performance issues to ensure a smooth and polished gameplay experience. Regularly test the game to detect and address any technical problems.
• Version Control Management: Manage and oversee version control using Git to ensure smooth integration of code changes. Collaborate effectively with the team using PRs (Peer Reviews) to ensure all code is properly merged and tracked.
• Code Planning, Standards, and Documentation: Plan, structure, and write clean, maintainable code that adheres to industry standards and best practices. Ensure all code is thoroughly documented for clarity, making it easy for the team to understand and follow.
• Cross-Team Collaboration: Work closely with designers, artists, and other programmers via Discord to ensure seamless integration of mechanics, assets, and features. Facilitate communication across departments to maintain consistency and meet project goals.

Essential Skills:

• Experience and familiarity with the Unity game engine.
• Proficiency in C#, with consideration for candidates who have transferable skills in similarly strongly typed languages.
• A deep understanding of mathematical concepts, particularly in vectors, matrices, and linear algebra.
• Familiarity with version control systems, such as Git or BitBucket.
• Adept at debugging, with the ability to work within an existing codebase, learn new systems quickly, and apply solutions efficiently.
• Strong logical and analytical thinking, with a focus on adhering to established coding practices.

Desirable:

• Expertise with Unity’s Mecanim animation system.
• Skilled in implementing new UI systems and optimising or debugging existing UI systems.
• Proficient in game AI methodologies and the implementation of AI systems.
• Experience releasing games across multiple platforms.
• Familiar with project management software such as Trello, Jira, or Height.

Commitment:

• Minimum of 15 hours per week or equivalent contributions.
• Able to attend and contribute to weekly meetings.
• Available to respond to questions and queries during weekdays as needed.

Benefits:

• Profit-Sharing Opportunity: As a valued member of our team, you will have the opportunity to earn a percentage of the project's profits upon successful completion. This profit-sharing arrangement is designed to reward your contributions and align our team’s success with the success of the project.
• Flexible Work Hours: Enjoy the freedom to structure your work schedule in a way that best suits your productivity and lifestyle, as long as project milestones and deadlines are met. We value a balanced approach to work that supports both individual well-being and team success.
• Staff Meetups & Team-Building Events: Participate in semi-regular staff meetups to stay connected with the team, as well as team building events where we play games together.
• Portfolio-Friendly Workplace: You’ll have the freedom to use your work for us in your personal portfolio — with a quick thumbs-up from us first. We’re all about helping you showcase your skills while respecting project guidelines.