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Michael May
"Michael Mayhem" - Gameplay & Systems Designer
Professional Background
Michael May is a dedicated game designer with a strong passion for problem-solving and the unique process of game development. He embarked on his career in the gaming industry in 2013, stepping into the role of Junior Designer after cultivating a decade of experience in game modding. His journey soon led him to become a vital member of the Character Design team for the beloved title, Marvel Heroes, where he ultimately rose to the position of Senior Game Designer by the end of his tenure.
During his time at Marvel Heroes, Michael took the helm as a team lead in 2016, where he gained comprehensive oversight of all playable characters, allied AI characters (known as Team-Ups), enemies, bosses, and essential system components within the game. Michael’s passion and expertise allowed him to design a majority of these characters personally. For the aspects of the game he didn't design himself, he played a pivotal role in their iteration process and was responsible for finalizing the features for shipping.
Regular collaboration with various departments such as art, production, and engineering was a cornerstone of Michael’s approach, enhancing productivity and enriching the gaming experience. His involvement extended to high-level production planning meetings, where he contributed to shaping the future direction of development cycles through informed discussion and strategic planning. Notably, he also oversaw the integration of player feedback into tangible improvements during iteration cycles, exemplifying his commitment to a user-centered design philosophy.
In addition to his significant contributions as a designer, Michael frequently engaged with the gaming community, often interfacing directly with players on forums. He addressed queries, sought additional feedback, and offered insights into design directions for specific features. His passion for game design and community building was further demonstrated through his participation in co-streaming on the official Marvel Heroes Twitch channel, where he showcased new character previews, thus generating excitement and anticipation for upcoming updates.
After four enriching years with the Marvel Heroes team, Michael transitioned to Gazillion Entertainment, joining a small team dedicated to the development of fresh projects. This new role enabled him to channel his creativity into formulating new ideas, drafting game pitches, and managing the production of both internal and contracted concept art. His expertise extended to writing detailed design documentation and utilizing the advanced capabilities of Unreal Engine 4 to produce playable prototypes, showcasing his versatility in the game design arena.
Education and Achievements
Michael's educational background is as impressive as his professional journey, having demonstrated a commitment to learning and self-improvement early on. He attended Mott Community College, where he pursued dual Associate's degrees and multiple certificates in Computer Information Science and Computer Occupations Technology, achieving an outstanding GPA of 3.7. This educational foundation equipped him with essential skills and knowledge that have been instrumental throughout his professional career in game design and technology.
Achievements
Throughout his career, Michael has consistently demonstrated an ability to innovate and lead within the gaming industry. Some of his key achievements include:
- Lead on Marvel Heroes Character Design Team: Successfully directed the creation of numerous playable characters and systems.
- Community Engagement: Fostered strong relations with players through direct communication, significantly enhancing player experience and satisfaction.
- Prototyping with Unreal Engine 4: Developed playable prototypes that have contributed to the successful evolution of game concepts and designs.
- Cross-Department Collaboration: Built productive relationships with cross-functional teams, leading to improved workflow and project outcomes.
Michael May's Notable Contributions to Game Design
Michael May is recognized not only for his technical skills but also for his ability to drive creativity within a team setting. His journey from a Junior Designer to a Senior Game Designer epitomizes the dedication and passion required to thrive in the competitive landscape of the gaming industry. Whether it was through his leadership in character design or his proactive engagement with the gaming community, Michael has made significant strides in shaping memorable gaming experiences.
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