Thomas Catalano Thomas Catalano

Video Game Developer

My journey as a game designer has been marked by a profound passion for crafting immersive experiences. With my proficiency in Unreal Engine, I aim to create distinctive levels that resonate with players. In my brief tenure as a game designer, I have brought games through all phases of development. From white box prototyping to the culmination of the triumphant release of a AAA-caliber title. An integral part of this process involved employing Blueprint Scripting to tackle Jira tasks, showcasing my problem-solving skills, and communicating with producers, engineers, and other designers.

The pinnacle of my career thus far resides in the invaluable experience gained from contributing to a shipped AAA title. Day in and day out, I collaborated within the studio’s dynamic environment, dedicatedly refining the game until it achieved the desired quality that players deserved. This hands-on involvement provided me with an unparalleled education in the intricate workings of game development, emphasizing the meticulous attention to detail required to deliver a polished gaming experience. I am always committed to exploring fresh avenues and seizing new opportunities that allow me to bring innovation, engagement, and fun to the world of gaming.

WORK

Experience

Associate Level Designer: Striking Distance Studios

  • Aided in the completion of The Callisto Protocol and it’s
    two major DLC all in Unreal Engine 4.
  • Helped resolve over 1000+ bugs across every level through
    the means of Blueprint Scripting and alternative design
    solutions.
  • Full ownership of two sections of a large level. Carried
    responsibilities from initial whitebox phase to full release
  • Participated in daily discussions with designers and
    producers outlining goals, tasks, and next steps.
  • Early prototype testing in Unreal Engine 5

Internship: ShadowMachine

  • Worked daily with producers, artist, and animators to help with day to day tasks.
  • Participated in meetings and TV episode script reads.
  • Received inside tips from concept artists and animators.

EDUCATION

Academy of Art University

  • BFA in Game Development | Class of 2021.
  • Successfully developed and managed video games in a group environment.
  • Produced and casted esport events hosted by the school.
  • Created and pushed games through all stages of development.
  • Former Captain for ArtU Esports Overwatch Varsity Team.
  • Currently collaborating on a project for NASA.

GAMING

Gaming Experience

  • Vast experience in the FPS Genre
  • Team Captain / In-Game Lead for school’s Overwatch collegiate team.
  • MMO and ARPG Enthusiast
  • Hands on experience with a variety of gaming platforms: PC, Console (PS5/PS4, XBOX)
  • Currently playing: Games I am playing: Valorant, Path of Exile, Diablo 4, Baldur’s Gate 3, Elden Ring
  • Past experience playing: Overwatch, World of Warcraft, League of Legends, Hearthstone, Apex Legends, Rainbow Six: Siege.