42 Gameplay Programmer jobs in the United States

Ability to work onsite from our Santa Monica, CA studio is required.

For nearly 40 years, Naughty Dog has been crafting best-selling, critically acclaimed games that constantly push the boundaries of narrative, gameplay, and technology. Naughty Dog recently released The Last of Us Part II Remastered as well as a current generation remake of The Last of Us Part I for the PS5. We're also proud to say that The Last of Us Parts I & II are now available for the first time on PC. Currently, we're busy at the kennel working on Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet, and we'd love to find talented individuals to join us.

Naughty Dog games have long been lauded for their evocative, character-driven stories and attention to detail. We are committed to innovation within our games and as such have curated some of the top creative and technically innovative minds in the industry. We welcome diverse candidates and believe that a broad range of cultural and life experiences contribute to the overall well-being and success of the studio and the titles we craft together. We'd love to find an experienced gameplay animator to join us!

What you will do:

• Work closely with the Design and Art teams to bring ideas and new gameplay features into the game
• Programming content like player movement, animation, AI, weapons, user interface, and scripting
• Ownership of multiple gameplay systems (Weapons, Inventory, Ranged Combat), including maintenance as well as new feature implementations and consulting with design on what can be added easily and what the costs of additional features would be

• Four (4) years of experience as a Senior Game Programmer, Game Programmer, or in a related occupation in video game industry
• 1 shipped AAA game
• Strong math skills with emphasis on 3D math which includes the ability to solve complex vector math problems
• Strong knowledge of C and C++ programming languages which includes concurrency and multithreaded programming, and locks and lock-free structure to debug issues
• Game console programming experience such as varied player-facing systems including cameras, movement, aiming and interface

• Santa Monica, California
• Work from office required (M-W-F)
• Hybrid allowed

Come join Bethesda Game Studios , the award-winning development team behind Starfield , The Elder Scrolls  and Fallout . Bethesda Game Studios strives to offer its employees a well-balanced home and work life by providing competitive salaries, a generous benefits program, and offices located in some of North America’s best cities.

With a goal of creating a culture as fun and diverse as our games and our players, we welcome applicants with unique skillsets, experience levels and backgrounds. If you are passionate about making a meaningful contribution to some of the most significant games in the industry we’d love to hear from you!

We will consider candidates for any of our four Bethesda Game Studios office locations: Rockville, MD; Montreal, Quebec; Austin, TX; Dallas, TX.

Your Daily Life at Bethesda Game Studios

Bethesda Game Studios is seeking a Principal Gameplay Programmer who can design, implement, and maintain gameplay systems for Fallout 76. This role involves guiding and implementing our marquee and most complex gameplay features for Fallout 76. 

In your role as Principal Gameplay Programmer . 

• You will easily dive in and become familiar with the game systems in our client/server engine
• You will implement, guide, and review game systems for Fallout 76
• You will work closely with designers, artists, and other programmers to iterate on gameplay features and ensure a great player experience
• You will take ownership of and help shape the overall game experience, extending beyond programming responsibilities
• You will own at least one major technology and/or game system in Fallout 76
• You will solve the more difficult bugs, problems, architectural dilemmas, or optimization issues
• You will be a leader in shaping programming policies and exploring new technologies and processes, especially in areas where others may face challenges
• You will help guide the direction of gameplay features and suggest options and alternatives that will improve the product
• You will code review and mentor more junior team members
• You will manage your time effectively with little to no guidance and prioritize work based on ROI and risk  

What Makes You S.P.E.C.I.A.L.

• You have 10+ years' experience programming, with most of it in AAA games and gameplay programming in C++
• You have a B.S. (or higher) in Computer Science, or equivalent work experience.
• You have expert experience in networking game features and awareness of the complexities of networked gameplay (replication of state, behaviors, physics, client/server breakdown of features and game systems)
• You have owned major systems and features including such things as combat, movement, camera, player progression, crafting/building, player stats, player creation and loadout, quests, events, repeatable missions, systematic content, player input, dialogue, companion/NPC/AI, and UI. 
• You are an expert in programming game systems in an asynchronous environment whether that be threaded, across frames, or across processes via a network. 
• You have been part of creating and launching a AAA title from beginning to end 
• You have significant experience with service-based games
• You have significant experience in in securing multiplayer systems from bad actors as well as experience in detecting them 
• You have been responsible for coding and/or reviewing the code for most of the Skills (What Makes You Extra S.P.E.C.I.A.L. ) listed below
• You have significant experience working in a Linux based environment including basic system administration and performance management 
• You have familiarity with Cloud Architecture in AWS and Azure and DevOps principles  

What Makes You Extra S.P.E.C.I.A.L.  

Programming  

• Expert computer science fundamentals including design patterns, algorithms and algorithmic complexity, memory management, state/object management, compilation, execution, and asynchronous processing and how all these apply to game systems in C++
• Expert understanding of OO principles including application of composition vs inheritance as well as SOLID principles as it applies to game systems in C++
• Expertise in async programming principles and networked applications  

Gameplay Systems  

• Ability to comfortably work with a legacy engine and make major changes while maintaining stability 
• Solid understanding of all traditional gameplay systems within a game loop across multiple engines such that you understand dependencies between systems and the direction things should be pushed in
• Expertise with the three C’s (Character, Camera, Controls)
• Expertise in NPC AI
• Expertise in combat systems 

Client/Server/Multiplayer   

• Expertise in how to ‘hide the latency’ and produce smooth seamless gameplay in a networked environment 
• Expertise in game state validation techniques that still maintain seamless gameplay  

Linux/Windows/Console Proficiency   

• Ability to diagnose performance and connectivity issues in Linux, Windows, and Consoles environments 
• Expertise in profiling across platforms with tools suited to each platform 
• Expertise in debugging  across multiple platforms  

Bonus Skills  

• You have done systems/engine level programming on AAA games on multiple platforms 
• You have C++ development experience in graphics/rendering 
• You have C++ development experience with development pipeline tools
• You understand how to monetize features while still providing a positive experience for the player
• You have an educational background in Math and/or Statistics 

Principal Gameplay Programmer - The typical base pay range for this position at the start of employment is expected to be between $145,000 - $275,000 per year.

ZeniMax has different base pay ranges for different work locations within the United States, which allows us to pay employees competitively and consistently in different geographic markets. The range above reflects the potential base pay across the U.S. for this role; the applicable base pay range will depend on what ultimately is determined to be the candidate’s primary work location. Individual base pay depends on various factors, in addition to primary work location, such as complexity and responsibility of role, job duties/requirements, and relevant experience and skills. Base pay ranges are reviewed and typically updated each year. Offers are made within the base pay range applicable at the time.

At ZeniMax certain roles are eligible for additional rewards, such as merit increases and discretionary bonuses. These awards are allocated based on individual performance and are not guaranteed. Benefits/perks listed here may vary depending on the nature of employment with ZeniMax and the country work location. U.S.-based employees have access to healthcare benefits, a 401(k) plan and company match, short-term and long-term disability coverage, basic life insurance, wellbeing benefits, paid vacation time, paid sick and mental health time, and several paid holidays, among others.

This position is in a union and represented by the Communication Workers of America.

• Work closely with designers and animators to fulfill the vision of the game.
• Build and maintain solid and flexible gameplay systems.
• Write high-quality code that is optimized, bug-free, and aligned with project goals.

• At least 10 years of professional experience as a programmer within the games industry.
• Strong proficiency in C++ programming and knowledge of Unreal Engine.
• Ability to think creatively and strategically to overcome technical challenges and drive innovation in technology.
• Knowledge of game engine architecture and algorithms.
• Strong multi-threaded programming skills.
• Excellent communication skills: We have a multilingual and multicultural working environment and the ability to communicate across language and time zone barriers is essential.
• A passion for games.

• Shipped at least one Unreal-based project for Xbox, PlayStation consoles.
• Experience using GAS.

• This job can be hybrid/in-office from Boston or fully remote from anywhere in USA or Canada.

• Company paid medical healthcare (dental vision & mental).
• Paid Leave - 20 days of holiday for every team member per year (26 days after two years).
• No dress-code - we like to keep it casual.
• 401K with employer matching.
• Gym Membership Reimbursement.

• Flexible working hours.
• Trainings, lectures and courses - internal workshops, knowledge-sharing initiatives, online tutorials, and e-learning classes are all available. There's always something to learn!
• Merch - gifts for newborn rebels and regular chances to nab some cool swag!
• A welcome pack filled with goodies - to help you feel right at home once you join the team.

• Dog-friendly office - dog owner? Bring your pooch with you and look after them while working! There's always a furry friend or two to meet at the studio.
• Truly international working environment - a chance to meet and work with a diverse selection of people from all around the world.

Come join Bethesda Game Studios , the award-winning development team behind Starfield , The Elder Scrolls  and Fallout . Bethesda Game Studios strives to offer its employees a well-balanced home and work life by providing competitive salaries, a generous benefits program, and offices located in some of North America’s best cities.

With a goal of creating a culture as fun and diverse as our games and our players, we welcome applicants with unique skillsets, experience levels and backgrounds. If you are passionate about making a meaningful contribution to some of the most significant games in the industry we’d love to hear from you!

We will consider candidates for any of our four Bethesda Game Studios office locations: Rockville, MD; Montreal, Quebec; Austin, TX; Dallas, TX.

Your Daily Life at Bethesda Game Studios

As Senior Multiplayer Gameplay Programmer , you will…

• Collaborate on the implementation of new gameplay features: player and characters’ behaviors, combat and powers mechanics, player movement systems, user interface, etc.
• Work closely with designers, artists, and other programmers to iterate on gameplay features and ensure a great player experience
• Develop and own full aspects of the game experience
• Collaborate with other members of the programmers’ team to build sustainable and maintainable technologies and optimized code on all platforms

What Makes You S.P.E.C.I.A.L.

• You have 5+ years of experience as a Gameplay Programmer with at least 1 shipped AAA title
• You are proficient with C++ and object-oriented programming
• You have demonstrable experience of networking game features and awareness of the
  complexities of networked gameplay (replication of state, behaviors, client/server breakdown of features and game systems)
• You have development experience on current gen game consoles
• You have the ability to contribute innovative and original ideas towards all aspects of game production and development
• You possess strong communication and organizational skills
• You work well under pressure and can handle multiple tasks
• You have a passion for making GREAT games
• You have experience playing Bethesda Game Studios games

Senior Gameplay Programmer - The typical base pay range for this position at the start of employment is expected to be between $105,000 - $225,000 per year.

ZeniMax has different base pay ranges for different work locations within the United States, which allows us to pay employees competitively and consistently in different geographic markets. The range above reflects the potential base pay across the U.S. for this role; the applicable base pay range will depend on what ultimately is determined to be the candidate’s primary work location. Individual base pay depends on various factors, in addition to primary work location, such as complexity and responsibility of role, job duties/requirements, and relevant experience and skills. Base pay ranges are reviewed and typically updated each year. Offers are made within the base pay range applicable at the time.

At ZeniMax certain roles are eligible for additional rewards, such as merit increases and discretionary bonuses. These awards are allocated based on individual performance and are not guaranteed. Benefits/perks listed here may vary depending on the nature of employment with ZeniMax and the country work location. U.S.-based employees have access to healthcare benefits, a 401(k) plan and company match, short-term and long-term disability coverage, basic life insurance, wellbeing benefits, paid vacation time, paid sick and mental health time, and several paid holidays, among others.

This position is in a union and represented by the Communication Workers of America.

• Design, implement, and maintain core gameplay systems and mechanics using C++ and the chosen game engine (e.g., Unreal Engine, Unity).
• Collaborate closely with game designers, artists, and other engineers to translate creative vision into functional game features.
• Optimize gameplay code for performance, stability, and scalability across target platforms.
• Develop and integrate player controls, character behaviors, AI, combat systems, and other interactive elements.
• Identify and resolve complex technical issues, bugs, and performance bottlenecks.
• Mentor junior programmers and contribute to code reviews, ensuring high-quality standards.
• Proactively research and propose new technologies and approaches to enhance gameplay.
• Contribute to the overall technical direction and architecture of the game.
• Participate in agile development processes, including sprint planning, daily stand-ups, and retrospectives.
• Document code and technical designs clearly and concisely.
• Champion best practices in software development and game engineering.

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Game Development, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.
• 5+ years of professional experience in game programming, with a significant focus on gameplay systems.
• Expert proficiency in C++ and object-oriented programming principles.
• Experience with modern game engines such as Unreal Engine or Unity.
• Strong understanding of 3D math, physics, and animation systems.
• Proven ability to design, implement, and debug complex gameplay features.
• Experience with version control systems (e.g., Git, Perforce).
• Excellent problem-solving skills and a keen eye for detail.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively in a remote team environment.
• Passion for video games and a deep understanding of game design principles.
• Experience with console development (PlayStation, Xbox, Switch) is a plus.
• Familiarity with networking and multiplayer gameplay development is a plus.

• Design, implement, and iterate on core gameplay mechanics and systems.
• Write clean, efficient, and maintainable C++ code.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to define and implement gameplay features.
• Debug and optimize gameplay systems for performance and stability.
• Contribute to technical design discussions and documentation.
• Champion best practices in game development and coding standards.
• Work effectively within a remote, agile development environment.
• Mentor junior programmers and share knowledge across the team.

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in game programming, with a focus on gameplay.
• Expertise in C++ and object-oriented programming principles.
• Experience with major game engines (Unreal Engine, Unity).
• Strong understanding of game design principles and player experience.
• Excellent problem-solving, debugging, and communication skills.
• Proven ability to work independently and collaboratively in a remote setting.

New York (USA) California (USA) Washington (USA)

At the core of Epics success are talented, passionate people. Epic prides itself on creating a collaborative, welcoming, and creative environment. Whether its building award-winning games or crafting engine technology that enables others to make visually stunning interactive experiences, were always innovating.

Being Epic means being a part of a team that continually strives to do right by our community and users. Were constantly innovating to raise the bar of engine and game development.

PROGRAMMING - GAMES

What We Do

Unreal projects have been leading the pack of real-time entertainment with our constantly growing team of programming experts. Were always improving on the tools and technology that empower content developers worldwide.

What You'll Do

Were looking for a Senior Gameplay Systems Programmer who is passionate about games and well-versed in C++ and gameplay systems development. As part of the Player Investment team, you'll work closely with designers and UI programmers to develop highly impactful player engagement and progression systems, like our innovative Quest and Battle Pass systems.

In this role, you will

Work closely with designers to create and iterate on game features and tools

Invite and respond to critical feedback throughout development

Support technical excellence on multiple platforms

Optimize and fix bugs in existing gameplay systems, including responding to live service incidents and resolving player account problems

Contribute ideas toward all aspects of the games production and development

Write robust, maintainable code with extensibility in mind

What we're looking for

Strong C++ skills and programming principles knowledge

Java experience is a bonus, for working with backend systems

Talent for building robust, extensible, maintainable systems

Experience developing AAA games or game engine technology professionally

Self-motivated, strong work ethic, and able to work independently

Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with demonstrated ability to communicate fluently in English (written and verbal)

Experience with player engagement and progression systems is a plus

This role is open to multiple locations across North America and Europe (including CA, NYC, & WA).

Pay Transparency Information

The expected annual base pay range(s) for this position are detailed below. Each base pay range is relevant only for individuals who are residents of or will be expected to work within the specified locale. Compensation varies based on a variety of factors, which include (but arent limited to) things such as skills and competencies, qualifications, knowledge, and experience. In addition to base pay, most employees are eligible to participate in Epics generous benefit plans and discretionary incentive programs (subject to the terms of those plans or programs).

New York City Base Pay Range

$215,291$16,683 USD

190,010 278,682 USD

Washington Base Pay Range

172,736 253,347 USD

ABOUT US

Epic Games spans across 25 countries with 46 studios and 4,500+ employees globally. For over 25 years, we've been making award-winning games and engine technology that empowers others to make visually stunning games and 3D content that bring environments to life like never before. Epic's award-winning Unreal Engine technology not only provides game developers the ability to build high-fidelity, interactive experiences for PC, console, mobile, and VR, it is also a tool being embraced by content creators across a variety of industries such as media and entertainment, automotive, and architectural design. As we continue to build our Engine technology and develop remarkable games, we strive to build teams of world-class talent.

Like what you hear? Come be a part of something Epic!

Epic Games deeply values diverse teams and an inclusive work culture, and we are proud to be an Equal Opportunity employer. Learn more about our Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Policy here .

Note to Recruitment Agencies: Epic does not accept any unsolicited resumes or approaches from any unauthorized third party (including recruitment or placement agencies) (i.e., a third party with whom we do not have a negotiated and validly executed agreement). We will not pay any fees to any unauthorized third party. Further details on these matters can be found here .

• Collaborate on the implementation of new gameplay features: player and characters' behaviors, combat and powers mechanics, user interface, etc.

• Work closely with designers, artists, and other programmers to iterate on gameplay features and ensure a great player experience.

• Develop and own full aspect of the game experience.

• Collaborate with other members of the programmers' team to build sustainable and maintainable technologies and optimized code on all platforms

• Write clear, maintainable, portable C++ code

• Capable of quick iteration and feedback loops while working with the team

• Ability to review and critique code in a constructive manner

• 6+ years in the games industry or demonstrable work in a first-person shooter game

• 2+ years in the game industry leading a team of direct reports

• Strong knowledge of C/C++

• Excellent math skills

• Solid architecture and design ability

• Ability to fearlessly jump into large, existing code bases

• Strong communication and organizational skills

• Ability to contribute innovative and original ideas towards all aspects of game production and development

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or related field, or equivalent experience.

• Experience with any version of idTech

• Console experience

• B.S. in computer science or equivalent study in related fields

Interview: virtual
Visa: USc and GC
Hybrid: Dallas, TX (Only local)
Must have excellent communication skill
Rate: DOE
JD:
We are looking for a Mid-Senior Unity Developer with solid experience in PC-based VR development . You'll be responsible for designing and implementing high-quality immersive experiences, collaborating with a multidisciplinary team on innovative VR projects.
This role requires strong technical skills, decision-making around project architecture, and experience optimizing complex environments for VR platforms like Oculus Rift, HTC Vive, Valve Index, and others.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and maintain VR systems and mechanics using Unity and C#.
• Optimize performance for PC VR (stable frame rates, efficient resource usage).
• Contribute to technical architecture and project structure decisions.
• Integrate technologies and SDKs such as OpenXR, SteamVR, XR Interaction Toolkit .
• Collaborate with technical artists and UX/UI designers to ensure smooth and intuitive VR experiences.
• Participate in code reviews, planning sessions, and continuous improvement of the codebase.
• Prototype new features and test on actual VR hardware.

• 3+ years of professional experience using Unity + C# .
• Proven experience developing VR applications for PC .
• Understanding of rendering cycles, physics, animation, and VR interaction systems.
• Hands-on experience with XR Interaction Toolkit , OpenXR , SteamVR , or similar.
• Strong skills in performance optimization (culling, LODs, draw calls) and profiling (GPU/CPU).
• Proficient with version control tools (Git) .

• Experience with URP or HDRP .
• Shader programming skills (HLSL / Shader Graph).
• Experience in networked/multiplayer VR development.
• Experience in AI powered NPCs creation