I’m a Game Designer with a BFA in Digital Media Design with a concentration in Game Design from the University of Connecticut (Class of 2025). I specialize in creating engaging player experiences through thoughtful level design, systems design, and interactive storytelling. My work combines technical precision with creative problem-solving, supported by a strong understanding of user-centric design principles.

Key Skills:

Game Development: Strong foundation in game development principles and user-centric design.
Design Proficiency: Experienced in level design, systems design, and creative iteration.
Technical Tools: Proficient with industry-standard tools such as Unity, Blender, and Hammer World Editor.
Programming Languages: Skilled in C#, with practical experience in scripting and game mechanics implementation
Game Development: Strong foundation in game development principles and user-centric design.

GARY STEWART
Gameplay Programmer • Technical Designer • Unreal Engine (C++/Blueprints)
gary.stewartct9898@gmail.com | (203) 895-5585 | Portfolio | LinkedIn Profile

SUMMARY

Technical Gameplay & Tools Developer skilled in C++, C#, and Unreal Engine 4/5, specializing in gameplay systems, rapid prototyping, and tool development. Experienced improving workflows, performance, and player experience across Unreal environments and VR simulations.

EDUCATION

BFA, Digital Media Design – Game Design
University of Connecticut, May 2025
Relevant Coursework: Game Programming, Systems Design, Core Gameplay Design, 3D Virtual World & Simulation, Game Scripting, Game Engines (Unreal, Unity), Sound Design, Digital Art Tools

EXPERIENCE

Level Design Intern – Castix LLC, Summer 2025
·    Redesigned two large-scale Unreal Engine environments, improving navigation flow, readability, and gameplay clarity.
·    Enhanced terrain, architecture, and faction-based worldbuilding while resolving major technical issues (clipping, misalignment, z-fighting).
·    Implemented interactive elements and performance optimizations that strengthened player onboarding and zone clarity.
Game Design Intern – University of Connecticut, Summer 2023
·    Developed VR interaction systems in Unreal Engine for addiction-treatment research, using animation cues, triggers, and real-time feedback.
·    Integrated iterative user-testing feedback to improve clarity, immersion, and reliability of core interactions.
·    Increased participant engagement through refined UX pacing and more intuitive spatial interactions.
Video & Sound Technician – Kuhn Copper Solutions, 2021–Present
·    Edited and optimized 100+ video assets, improving viewer engagement by 20%.
·    Managed audio/video pipelines to ensure consistent high production quality.

TECHNICAL SKILLS

·    Programming: C++, C#, Unreal Blueprints, Gameplay Scripting, AI Behavior Trees, Object-Oriented Programming
·    Engines & Tools: Unreal Engine 4/5, Unity, Blender, Hammer World Editor, Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop
·    Game Development: Gameplay Systems, Level Design, Animation Logic, Tools/Editor Extensions, Combat Systems, Prototyping, Optimization, UX for Interactive Systems
·    Soft Skills: Collaboration, Clear Technical Communication, Debugging, Rapid Iteration, Cross-disciplinary Teamwork

PROJECTS

VR Therapy Simulation (Unreal Engine)
·    Built interactive VR scenarios with intuitive motion systems and scalable logic improving user immersion.

Global Game Jam (2023–2025)
·    Designed gameplay systems and mechanics for rapid-prototype games; one title showcased for innovative execution.

Multiplayer Interaction Projects (Unity / Hammer Editor)
·    Built a Garry’s Mod TTT map with custom traps and physics interactions.
·    Developed a dark-ride simulation map with timed events, scripted sequences, and environmental storytelling.

HONORS & ACTIVITIES

·    Eagle Scout, BSA
·    Vice President, Fairfield Ludlowe Esports Club
·    Overwatch Competitor — CT Regional Champion
·    IBM Design Thinking Badge