Matthew Watson - Principal Level Designer
Senua's Saga: Hellblade II
Level Designer (June 2021 - October 2022)

Ninja Theory, Senua's Saga: Hellblade II - Level Designer
(June 2021 - October 2022)
My responsibilities included:
-
Owning multiple levels, including the haunting opening chapter of the game
-
Creating level layouts from blockmesh through to polish
-
Collaborating in writing room-style brainstorming sessions for level ideas, pacing and plot points
-
Creating mechanics and tools using Unreal Blueprints
-
Setting up gameplay sequences using tools from Technical Designers, including combat, puzzles, exploration and cinematics.
-
Working daily with all disciplines and co-ordinating their works. Worked particularly closely with Art, Audio & Cinematics.
-
Producing documentation, walkthroughs and maps to assist other disciplines with understanding the level’s vision
-
Organising weekly playtest reviews with project stakeholders to feedback on the levels
Some of my favourite moments:
-
Going on a field trip to Iceland with the LD team and using firsthand experience to inform my level designs
-
Working in an intense month on the Troll Boss Level for the Games Awards 2021 Gameplay Reveal trailer
-
Creating a presentation deck and showcasing the opening level of the game to the entire 80+ person studio.