JOB: junior game designer/playtest operator, needed ASAP
Wellness Partners (WP), a project funded by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation is seeking a junior web designer and playtest operator for a prototype game that uses a fictional character to help players spark and sustain physical activity.
GAME DESCRIPTION:
WP is a character-driven social game that uses elements from virtual pets, role-playing games (RPGs), and social networking tools to motivate real-world wellness by helping players to leverage their intimate network as sources of encouragement, community and support. Players are rewarded with new character abilities, attributes and props in the game for choosing and sustaining lifestyle changes and staying active. This prototype version of WP is played on either a cell phone or web browser (same functionality for both). Much of the game is a single-player experience, but the game allows for intra-group communication for purposes of support, checking progress, and completing group quests. The WP character is a fictional creature. A WP character can offer encouragement, reminders, and send messages to other players' characters. The WP character becomes both the face of the game and an alter ego for the player. Players can expand their personal group by recruiting partners or helpers.
Position Responsibilities & Skills:
- Help design the game in coordination with senior personnel
- Conduct playtesting sessions of prototype (over sms and email, phone device will be provided)
- Basic knowledge of MS Excel for data entry required
- Creative writing skills and a compassionate spirit for the purposes of the project (it is a health game after all...) are also required
- MUST BE A USC STUDENT
- MUST have taken a game prototyping class with our division
Available immediately, $12/hour to start, send resume or CV to mgotsis@cinema.usc.edu and one paragraph about why you think you can do this and what your creative interests are.
