Game Programmer – Japan & Global Game Development
Keywords Studios14 hours ago
Tokyo, JapanEntry Level
Responsibilities
- Implement gameplay systems and mechanics and translate design concepts into functional code.
- Build rapid gameplay prototypes for experimentation, proof of concept, playability, and project pitches.
- Contribute to reusable libraries and frameworks covering networking, simulation, and core utilities.
- Develop internal tools and editor extensions that improve designer and artist workflows.
- Assist with technical workflow automation and CI/CD pipelines.
- Identify and resolve performance bottlenecks, memory issues, logic bugs, and stability problems across hardware targets.
- Collaborate with designers, producers, senior engineers, and distributed global teams on technical solutions and implementation alignment.
- Maintain technical documentation, participate in code reviews, write unit tests for critical gameplay logic, and engage in ongoing technical learning.
Requirements
- Good proficiency in C++ and understanding of data structures, algorithms, memory management, and other computer science fundamentals.
- Comfort working with Git or similar version control systems.
- A portfolio of personal projects, prototypes, game contributions, or mods demonstrating the ability to turn ideas into functional systems.
- Experience collaborating with others through professional work, game jams, or open-source projects.
- Ability to break down complex technical challenges and develop practical, maintainable solutions.
- Familiarity with Unreal Engine and C++ is preferred, though experience with other engines or languages is welcome.
- Interest or experience in ECS, data-oriented design, modular system architecture, custom tools, editor extensions, or automation scripts is preferred.
- Understanding of engaging and intuitive game mechanics is a plus.
- Experience in multicultural environments or interest in the Japanese game development industry is preferred; Japanese proficiency is a plus but not required.
- Applicants must currently reside in Japan and have valid authorization to work in Japan.
Benefits
- Competitive compensation package with performance-based incentives.
- Opportunity to work with major game developers in Japan and represent a global game services leader.
- Collaborative, growth-oriented global culture.
- Full-time contract employment with a hybrid/remote working pattern.
- Work across game projects of varying scope, including small-scale productions and AAA titles.
About Keywords Studios
Keywords Studios provides outsourced game development, art, audio, localization, QA, player support, and marketing services to video game developers, publishers, and entertainment platforms. It operates as a global external development partner across the product lifecycle, offering co-development, testing, and live-ops support on a services basis. Headquartered in Dublin and acquired by EQT in 2024, the company counts customers such as Microsoft and Ubisoft.