If you’ve got your sights set on breaking into the games industry as a designer, you’ve probably already realised there’s no tutorial for it. Entry-level roles (frustratingly) often ask for experience, job descriptions can be vague, and it’s not always clear what studios actually want to see from candidates applying for junior game designer jobs.
In this guide, we’ll take a look at exactly what studios look for in junior game designers in 2026, from technical knowledge requirements, to what really matters in a game design portfolio. We’ll also break down some of the most common hiring myths and highlight some practical tips on how to level up your applications for your first role in game design.
What Does Entry-Level in Game Design Really Mean?
One of the most confusing parts of applying for junior game designer jobs is the way “entry-level” is used. On paper, it sounds like a starting point. But in truth, it often comes with a long list of responsibilities that don’t feel very junior at all.
This doesn’t necessarily mean studios are being unrealistic, it means entry-level roles in game design are less about inexperience and more about potential for growth and skill development.
Junior Game Designer Responsibilities
In 2026, junior game designers typically support more senior designers rather than owning entire projects. On a typical day a Junior Game Designer may find themselves:
- Prototyping mechanics in Unity or Unreal
- Supporting level design or system balancing
- Writing and maintaining design project documents
- Playtesting, analysing and presenting player feedback
- Collaborating with other departments (Art, Programming, Production etc.)
Tasks and responsibilities will vary depending on the size and needs of the studio, but this is why entry-level roles still mention the need for some kind of experience. You’re not being asked to fabricate years of experience in gaming, studios are looking for evidence that you understand the realities of designing and game production.
What Experience Do You Need?
When studios talk about experience at a junior level, they’re often not referring to direct employment. Usually, they mean things like:
- Personal or student projects
- Participation in game jams and game dev challenges like Rising Star and Search for a Star
- Playable prototypes (just make sure they’re downloadable)
Internships are also a huge bonus if you’re able to get one, but competition is fierce, but as you can see, there are plenty of other ways to show off your skills.
Bonus tip: A strong game design portfolio will usually matter more than a long CV. Being able to show how you designed, tested, and improved a mechanic goes much further than simply listing tools or skills without explaining how you used them.
Underrated Skills That Help Junior Game Designers Stand Out
Studios expect junior designers to understand the basics like engines, mechanics, and how games are built. What really helps candidates stand out in 2026 is how they demonstrate some of the less obvious skills not everyone will be talking about.
Design thinking:
In your portfolio or interviews, talk through problems you were solving and the constraints you worked within, and how you implemented different mechanics to fix them.
Iteration and adaptability:
Studios notice designers who are comfortable changing direction. Show early versions of a mechanic, explain what didn’t work in playtests, and highlight how feedback/analysis shaped the final result.
Player-focused thinking:
Demonstrate this by clearly defining who your game is for and what the player should feel. Even small projects benefit from explaining intended player experience and how your design choices support it.
Clear communication:
Show that you can explain ideas simply. Use concise documentation, short summaries, or clear annotations in your portfolio so others can understand your thinking quickly.
How to Make Your Junior Game Designer Portfolio
When studios review applications, portfolio reviews are usually quick. If someone has to dig around to work out what they’re looking at, they’ll quickly move on. Think of it as an opportunity to show off your UX skills!
Portfolio Websites
For most junior game designers, a straightforward portfolio website is the safest and most practical option.
A clean portfolio website can be built using tools like Wix or Squarespace. You’ll want to include a homepage that highlights three to five projects with a dedicated page for each project. This setup makes your work easy to scan, easy to share, and easy to come back to later.
Each project page should include:
- A short summary explaining what the project is and what you worked on
- Some screenshots or short clips to show it in action
- A link to play or download the project (even better if you’re able to embed a demo)
You don’t need to explain everything, but it’s important to focus on the value you personally brought to the project.
Short Portfolio Videos
Short gameplay videos are another effective way to show your work, especially at junior level.
Good portfolio videos are:
- Around 60–120 seconds long
- Focused on one mechanic or system
- Lightly captioned or explained with a simple voiceover
Bonus tip: Make sure you’re choosing projects that showcase your development as a designer. If a project doesn’t help show how you think as a designer, it’s probably better left out.
Key Takeaways for Aspiring Junior Game Designers in 2026
Breaking into game design at junior level isn’t about being perfect. Studios are looking for potential, clear thinking, and signs that you have a grasp on understanding how games are brought to life.
Focus on a small number of strong projects, present them clearly, and show how you test and improve your ideas. If someone can quickly see how you think as a designer, you’re already doing better than you might think.
FAQs
Do studios hire junior game designers without experience?
Yes, but most studios count student projects, game jams, and playable prototypes as experience for junior game designer roles.
Do junior game designers need to know coding?
Not fully, but some technical understanding helps. Being comfortable in Unity or Unreal is usually enough at junior level.
How many projects should a junior game designer have in their portfolio?
Around three to five strong projects. A clear game design portfolio matters more than quantity.
Do studios prefer indie experience or AAA-style projects?
Neither. Studios care more about your game design skills than the size or style of the project.
Ready to Level Up Your Game Design Skills?
If you’re serious about working towards a career in game design, having the right environment and tools makes a real difference.
At LCCA, our BA (Hons) Computer Games Design course is built around how studios actually work. You’ll design player-focused levels, mechanics and systems using industry tools like Unreal Engine 5, UEFN and Jira, working in a purpose-built gaming lab and a studio-style setting. You’ll collaborate on original games, take part in live briefs and industry challenges, and graduate with a portfolio that shows off your design talent.