PAST AND CURRENT PROJECTS
Released Title | 2025
Gameplay & Level Designer + Gameplay Programmer
Bluey’s Quest: for the Gold Pen, was a project I worked on for Halfbrick Studios released in 2025. Currently available on iOS & GooglePlay, soon to be available on Console.
VR Cocktail Bar Game | 2022
Artist, Programmer & Lead Designer
Understaffed at the Interstellar puts players into the shoes of a bartender working busy hours at an interstellar night-club; where in which they must swiftly prepare drinks for impatient alien customers.
Top-Down Shooter | 2022
Sole Developer
Multiplayer Puzzle Game | 2021
Manager, Programmer & Level Designer
Space Detective Game | 2020
Designer & Lead Programmer
SKILLS & PROCEDURES
Prototyping & Scripting
During the conceptualisation phases of projects, I often test mechanics and gameplay in smaller prototypes. This has greatly assisted me in communicating ideas and concepts to my fellow developers. Furthermore, this often leads to me assisting greatly in the programming stages of development; overall building my experience in a variety of programs and languages. These include proficiencies in:
Unity
Unreal Engine
Gamemaker Studio 2
C#, JavaScript and Python
Modelling & Animation
In addition to contributing to programming, I often lead the production of assets for the projects I work on. These have included 2D Pixel Art, Animations, 3D Modelling, Rig Creation, etc. As a consequence of this, I have gained a proficient amount of familiarity with programs such as:
Blender
Maya
Gimp
Krita & Photoshop
Iterative Design
During the development process, I always favour implementing an iterative design process. This often involves fortnightly playtesting sessions to allow for the collection of feedback to act upon. This process has also lead to me developing a variety of project management and design thinking skills.
Riley McDonald-Smith? Who’s that?
I’m a Game Designer and Programmer from Brisbane, Australia! I completed a dual degree at the Queensland University of Technology in 2022; comprised of a Bachelor of Games and Interactive Environments (Game Design) and Bachelor of Business (Marketing).
I have designed and developed many different prototypes and completed projects, as well as experimented in the areas of level, narrative, mechanics and character design. Additionally, I have also gained a marketing perspective on it all through the business half of the degree.
During my career, I have further honed my skills working as a Gameplay Designer Generalist; where in which I designed, prototyped & programmed entire games from start to finish.
Where do my interests lie?
I often lead and contribute to a wide range of development areas, but I really enjoy working within the gameplay design and prototyping fields. I am a designer at heart, but also enjoy and have become quite skilled at programming.