Riot Games was established in 2006 by entrepreneurial gamers who believe that player-focused game development can result in great games. In 2009, Riot released its debut title, League of Legends, to critical and player acclaim. Today, it stands as the most-played video game in the world, with over 100 million monthly players. These players form the foundation of our community, and it is for them that we continue to evolve the League experience.
Riftbound, our premier Trading Card Game (TCG) set in the world of Runeterra, is searching for a Principal Visual Design Artist. This isn’t just a digital role; we are looking for a world-class visual lead with a deep background in the print industry. You will ensure the look and tactile feel of our physical cards continuously surprises and delights players and collectors worldwide.
Reporting to the Game Art Director, you will be the guardian of craft, polish, and imagination. We need a hands-on visual craftsperson who can bring consistency, clarity, and aspiration to every touchpoint, allowing Riftbound to stand out in a crowded global TCG market.
Job Overview: Principal Visual Design Artist (Riftbound)
| Category | Details |
| Company Name | Riot Games |
| Job Title | Principal Visual Design Artist (Riftbound) |
| Location | Shanghai, China (The Bund District) |
| Job Type | Full-Time |
| Estimated Salary Range | ¥750,000 – ¥1,100,000 CNY (Base + Performance Bonus + Equity) |
| Core Industries | Video Games, Trading Card Games (TCG), Print Media |
| Language Requirements | Fluent in English and Mandarin Chinese |
| Experience Level | 8+ Years (Principal/Lead Level) |
Key Responsibilities
1. Strategic Creative Partnership
You will partner closely with the Creative Leadership across Game and Publishing to ensure Riftbound’s creative direction is world-class. Your influence will extend from early set ideation to the final product held in a player’s hand.
- Collaborate with Art Directors to translate abstract narrative themes into tangible visual realities.
- Guide the brand systems, packaging, and marketing aesthetics to ensure a cohesive “Premium” feel.
2. Visual Design & UI Systems
As a Principal Artist, you are the standard-bearer for visual excellence.
- Ideate and execute world-class game and card UI visual design systems.
- Develop scalable icons and typography standards that accommodate Global localization while honoring the player experience.
- Ensure that every card is readable, playable, and beautiful—balancing complex game data with high-fidelity art.
3. Print Production & Innovation
This role requires a technical “Print Wizard.” You will oversee the production process for cards, packaging, and accessories.
- Deep Technical Execution: Apply expert knowledge of printing processes (CMYK, Spot Colors, Foiling, Embossing) and materials to ensure final product quality.
- Factory Liaison: Communicate with global factories, performing in-person Print Checks to align on specifications and resolve quality issues.
- Innovation: Identify and collaborate on print innovations—unique finishes, sustainable materials, and production techniques that enhance collectibility and narrative themes.
4. Design Operations
Scale is key. You will partner with Creative Leadership to ensure the visual design content pipeline can support high product output demands without sacrificing quality.
- Establish and monitor color and print tolerances across global partners.
- Evaluate and improve production workflows for maximum efficiency and scalability.
Required Qualifications
To thrive in this role, you must possess a blend of technical print expertise and artistic vision:
- Experience: 8+ years in the TCG and/or high-end print industries.
- Proven Track Record: Experience with “evergreen” projects (e.g., Magic: The Gathering, Pokémon, or League of Legends) and a history of shipping high-quality physical products.
- Physical Engineering: Strong practical CAD experience; comfortable working with die lines, die whites, and complex printing specs.
- Visual Mastery: A keen eye for typography, visual hierarchy, clarity, and user experience (UX).
- Leadership: Proven ability to manage external vendors, printers, and contract artists, providing clear, actionable feedback.
- Tools: Proficiency in modern video game development tools, pipelines, and design software (Adobe Creative Suite, Figma, etc.).
- Communication: Bilingual fluency in English and Mandarin Chinese is essential for coordinating between our global headquarters and local manufacturing partners in China.
Desired Qualifications
- Prior experience in the video games industry as a Visual Designer.
- A deep-rooted passion for the world of Runeterra and League of Legends lore.
Compensation & Global Perks
At Riot, we take “Total Rewards” seriously. We offer a competitive package designed to support your lifestyle and professional growth.
Total Compensation Structure
- Base Salary: Market-leading base pay focused on your skills and proficiency.
- Annual Performance Bonus: A discretionary incentive program rewarding short-term success.
- Long-Term Incentives: Equity and “Big Bet” programs that allow you to share in the long-term success of Riot’s titles.
Rioter Benefits
- Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans (including coverage for spouses and children), plus a dedicated Wellness Fund for gym memberships or massages.
- The Play Fund: An annual stipend specifically for you to buy games and stay connected to the player experience.
- Work-Life Balance: Open Paid Time Off (PTO) and company-wide breaks (two weeks at year-end, one week mid-year).
- Office Culture: Located in the heart of Shanghai with views of the Bund, featuring free meals, snacks, and a highly collaborative team environment.
The Riot Mindset
Riot Games is looking for individuals who are humble but ambitious. We embrace those who see things differently and have a “healthy disregard for constraints.” If you are a designer who treats every card as a masterpiece and every print run as a mission-critical operation, we want to hear from you.
Note for Applicants: Please include a portfolio showcasing your physical print work and a cover letter. We receive many applications, but we always notice a fun, well-written intro that shows you take play seriously.
How to Apply
Candidates are encouraged to apply through the Riot Games Career Portal. Please ensure your portfolio demonstrates a high level of craft in typography and physical production techniques.
Riot Games is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all Rioters.
Riot Games hiring Principal Visual Design Artist, China
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