A Level Designer is the creator of the levels within a game, mapping out the layout so that it functions within the rules of the game and executes gameplay as created by the Game Designer. 

The first stage of the level design process is to sketch out the layout of the level in two dimensions, this is based on the concept art and storyboards that are provided by the Game Designer. Once they have been signed off they are then rendered to their 3D iterations and the level is then populated with characters, objects, events, environments and circles of action.

The Level Designer creates the entry and exit points of each level and guides the player logically through the game via its rules, rewards and objectives. Level design begins early in the game development process as it is the basic structure of the game, with gameplay refinement, inter-level consistency and user experience driving the development process.

The sequence of levels is also taken into consideration by Level Designers. The first level of a game will introduce the player to the game. It will establish characters, explain the storyline, instruct the player on the objectives of the game and generally initiate the player into the world of the game. Each level that follows will then act to further the story, develop characters, increase the level of complexity, up the stakes, and draw the player further into the game.

Role and Responsibilities

The Level Designer brings structure to the game concept by creating the environment of each level and then plotting out the actions within it. Fluency in visual, technical and storytelling techniques are required for the role. 

The responsibilities of a Level Designer can include:

• Interpret the original concept of the game as briefed by the Game Designer
• Work from storyboards to create the level structure
• Write document listing assets, objectives and layout of each level
• Sketch and map out each level
• Render each level to 3D environment
• Plot and map out sequences of action within the level
• Create entry and exit points for each level
• Determine where the player will encounter characters & objects within the level

Level Designer Software and Tools:

The software required by a Level Designer:

Level Designers use a broad variety of resources that reflects their variety of responsibilities. They will work with graphics, 2D and 3D animation software, game engines and programming languages. These include:

Software that Level Designers may use include:

• Adobe creative suite (Photoshop, After Effects, Illustrator)
• Maya
• Unity 
• Unreal Engine
• C
• C++

Skills Required:

Level Designers need to be highly creative and methodical at the same time. They are responsible for imagining the intricacies of world-building from a concept brief and realize it in a 3D environment. The role requires the ability to sequence action, enact story, develop character and guide the player from one level to another.

A Level Designer would require these skills:

• Artistic talent
• Storytelling skills
• Methodical mindset
• Knowledge of architectural principles
• Ability to transform 2D concepts to 3D objects
• Understanding of how objects respond to the laws of physics
• Deep understanding of gameplay and game engagement
• Programming knowledge
• Problem-solving ability
  

Average Salary:

Entry level positions start at £26,186 per year while most experienced workers make up to £67,647