Showcasing his game at LevelUp 2019 gave him the opportunity to network and build connections which led him to working as a Technical Designer at Ubisoft Toronto. Now Naveen Prasad has worked on exciting projects like Far Cry 6 and it’s newly released DLC Lost Between Words! He shares more about his career journey and advice for others looking to build a career in the video games industry!
Hey Naveen! Tell us more about what do you do as a Technical Designer?
As a Technical Designer, my role is to optimize feature implementations, create logic blocks, and perform tech validations on built levels. This could entail fixing bugs in code or script to ensure that the player has a smooth experience.
I would say my favorite aspects of my role is the creative problem solving and that I am actively learning. As I go about seeking solutions and troubleshooting issues that are raised, I also get to assess which solution would be best to implement while considering the engine and tool constraints. Additionally, I get the opportunity to interact with level designers and programmers and find different ways we can create a unique experience while overcoming technical challenges.
CAREER DEVELOPMENT
What did you do before working at Ubisoft Toronto? How did you break into the video game industry?
Before I joined Ubisoft Toronto in 2019, I worked as a Game Developer for George Brown College’s Research & Innovation department. There I worked on video-game research projects with a focus on AR/VR games.
I got my big break during LevelUp 2019, where I had the opportunity to present the game I had developed alongside other students. It was an amazing event where I got to network with industry professionals and veterans while also getting feedback from Ubisoft developers on how to improve my game and the different ways to optimize the player experience. Through the contacts I have made alongside my portfolio, I was able to land an interview at Ubisoft Toronto which got me the role!
What are some tips you’d give to someone hoping to land a similar role to yours?
There’s no right answer to this question, however, my general suggestion is to practice making lots of games in Unity or Unreal. During this process, there will be lot of bugs and issues that are presented and fixing these issues will provide learning lessons in itself.
For skills specific to my role, I would suggest learning programming languages such as C++, C#, Lua, node-based scripting tools, rational game design principles and having a strong understanding of arithmetic and logic.
Can you describe a project you’ve worked on that you’re proudest of?
The first project that comes to mind is the Far Cry 6 expansion — Lost Between Worlds. It was an incredibly unique concept and I personally enjoyed working on this DLC.
I am particularly proud of the portals as I was directly involved in various aspects — from implementing the VFX and position of the portals in the level, to setting up the visuals within depicting the rifts players will step into. It was also a rewarding challenge fixing bugs that would cause the portals to not load properly or lead the player to a different location than intended.
Occasionally, I like to go through YouTube and see everyone’s reactions to the gameplay and it makes me incredibly happy that I got the opportunity to work on this amazing DLC!
What’s the biggest takeaway or lesson you’ve learnt in your career?
- Work with your lead/team – Get involved, ask lots of questions and learn from their experience and guidance.
- Learn to work with everyone – Game development is a team effort. I work with lots of teams and disciplines regularly, so learning how to communicate effectively goes a long way.
- Be Flexible – Things may not go as expected and there might be last minute changes that are required. So, it’s important to be able to pivot and keep moving ahead with your head up high.
- Take Initiative – Don’t be afraid to share ideas, thoughts, and perspectives.
- Be Ambitious – Having a strong ambition since day one will fuel your day-to-day work as you will constantly seek for opportunities to learn and grow.
- Lastly, have fun – At the end of the day, we make video games and create these amazing worlds and experiences that are loved by all.
LIFE AT UBISOFT TORONTO
What is your first memory of the Ubisoft Toronto studio/community?
I remember getting a tour of the studio and being in absolute awe and shock about how cool the studio was. It was filled with creativity and inspiration from all corners, and I was absolutely psyched to be working there. An amazing memory I will never forget.
What surprised you most when you joined Ubisoft Toronto?
The People. Everyone at Ubisoft Toronto is so incredibly talented, enthusiastic, creative, and easy to approach. They are truly experts in their field and have tons of knowledge to share. Additionally, the studio also hosts various entertaining social events and gatherings where it is a pleasure to meet and talk to everyone.
PERSONAL
What do you do to relax?
Some of my favorite things to do are playing video games, and watching movies, anime or tv shows. I really enjoy doing a deep dive analysis on movies and watching the behind the scenes to see how they achieved such incredible cinematographic shots and overcame challenges. With that being said though, nothing beats watching the latest anime with a hot bowl of ramen on a cold winter day.
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People of Ubisoft Toronto is a series featuring studio members from a variety of projects and backgrounds as they share their experiences at our studio, perspective of the video game industry and, perhaps, even a sneak peek of what they’re working on! 
Our studio values diversity and believes in embracing differences to build stronger and more creative teams. We welcome people who would like to join us and redefine the future of games. Visit our careers page for more information on open roles and how to apply. To know more about our studio members and culture, click here.
