Okay, I've searched for Senior Gameplay Engineer roles in Santa Monica within the gaming industry, specifically focusing on physics and math, and requiring 5+ years of experience with Unreal Engine 5. I found 27 relevant positions for you.

Sure. Here's the analysis:

Job Analysis:

The role of Senior Gameplay Engineer – Physics & Math at Refactor Games is fundamentally about creating a realistic and immersive soccer gaming experience using advanced physics and mathematical modeling within Unreal Engine 5. The primary responsibilities center around developing core gameplay systems that ensure authentic player movement, ball dynamics, and interaction fidelity. This requires not only strong technical proficiencies in C++ and 3D game physics but also the capability to apply complex mathematical concepts such as vector math, kinematics, and linear algebra to real-time simulations. Candidates will likely face challenges like tuning player movements to feel responsive yet realistic, refining ball physics to replicate the intricacies of soccer, and ensuring that networked multiplayer simulations maintain accuracy. Success in this role will hinge on the ability to balance creative design considerations with technical constraints, demanding a collaborative mindset to work effectively across multiple teams. Ultimately, this position is pivotal in delivering a cutting-edge sports title that resonates with both players and critics alike, with an expectation that the engineer will take ownership of gameplay physics and drive tangible improvements in the overall feel of the game.

Company Analysis:

Refactor Games operates in the emergent and experimental video game industry, specifically focusing on AAA sports titles. This positions the company in a competitive space where innovation and authenticity are paramount. Being at the forefront of developing the next generation of soccer games with Unreal Engine 5 implies a culture that values creativity, technical mastery, and a commitment to delivering the most authentic gaming experiences possible. The company likely fosters an environment where experimentation and iterative development are encouraged, aligning with the fast-paced nature of the gaming industry. The Senior Gameplay Engineer will function as a key player within the development team, potentially interfacing closely with artists, designers, and other engineers, emphasizing cross-functional collaboration. Given the emphasis on advanced gameplay systems and physics, this role is not merely about following directives but about contributing strategic insights that align with the company's overall goal of redefining how soccer games are experienced. This high-ownership role indicates that the organization values individuals with strong opinions and a deep passion for gameplay dynamics, positioning engineers as critical shapers of the game’s development direction.

Absolutely. Here are some mock interview questions that could come up:

• Can you describe a time when you had to adjust gameplay mechanics to improve player experience? What was the challenge, and what was the outcome?
• Tell me about a complex physics challenge you encountered in a past project. How did you approach solving it?
• Describe your experience with real-time simulations. What strategies do you use for optimizing physics parameters?
• How do you ensure the physics you develop maintain fidelity in multiplayer environments?
• What specific aspects of C++ programming do you find most critical in developing gameplay systems in Unreal Engine?
• How would you create a more realistic ball dynamics system to simulate the Magnus Effect in gameplay?
• If tasked with improving player movement, how would you go about determining the right balance between responsiveness and realism?
• Imagine you're facing an issue where the player character's collisions are not reflecting real-life soccer physics. How would you approach troubleshooting this?
• Why are you interested in developing soccer video games, and what makes you excited about this role at Refactor Games?
• What do you think about our approach to gameplay physics, and how do your past experiences align with our vision?
• How do you keep up with the latest trends and techniques in gameplay engineering and physics?
• What kind of feedback would you seek from the team to ensure your physics systems meet the overall game design goals?
• What questions do you have about the team dynamics here at Refactor Games?
• How do you envision your role contributing to the long-term vision of our soccer video game projects?