Niels van Egmond

Hard

Skills

Design

At my core, I’m a game designer and I’ll learn whatever I need to bring an idea to life. I’ve designed across every layer of a game: meta systems, UI/UX, tools, code, but my favorite space is core gameplay design, especially where design, tech, and art meet. That includes prototyping, physics systems, 3C’s, and gamefeel. It’s where I shine.

I’ve worked across more than ten genres, from shmups to puzzle platformers, card games to physics puzzlers, pinball to stealth-action. I have rarely repeated a genre, and that range has taught me how to adapt fast, find what matters, and bring fresh perspective to any system or mechanic.

I care deeply about team creativity. I want to create environments where the best ideas win, not just mine. If I see a process slowing down iteration or muddying direction, I speak up and help shape something better. I love chasing great ideas, but I care even more about helping the team find the idea that really clicks.

Cut the Rope 3 | Core Hook

Came up with the key idea that shaped CtR3’s identity: what if Nibble Nom was the candy? This made perfect sense for the next evolution of the Cut the Rope IP. From that point on, everything fell into place.

Paladin | Ideation Process

Spearheaded a successful, company-wide ideation habit built on clarity, inclusion, and consistency.

The system centers on two simple components:

An open idea board - accessible to everyone, encouraging contributions from all departments.

A weekly pitch session - where ideas are shared, excitement is felt, and feedback is constructive.

There are no traditional brainstorms. All ideas are prepared and pitched. Participation is opt-in. Only those in a “yes, and” mindset attend. Every idea gets heard, with thoughtful, appreciative feedback.

Over time, this became our go-to creative engine. Many core mechanics and prototype ideas emerged from outside the design team, thanks to the open structure. It fostered async ideation, cross-discipline ownership, and consistent creative energy, while also strengthening morale and team cohesion.