Lagged Out Interactive (LOI) is an indie studio dedicated to craftsmanship and passion-driven storytelling. Our goal is not just to create games, but to build immersive universes that players can lose themselves in. We believe stories should be rich, contradictory, and alive — where truth can be propaganda, factions resist binaries, and characters wrestle with paradox.
We’re seeking a Narrative Designer / Writer with the vision to grow into a lead narrative role. This is not a “write filler text” position. You will help define the philosophical and emotional heart of our universe, and lay the foundation for stories that can expand beyond games into other mediums.
While this is a remote position, applicants must reside in the USA and do not need a work visa sponsorship now or in the future.
Language RequirementApplicants must be native or fluent in English. This role requires precise, publication-quality command of English for narrative design, worldbuilding, and storytelling. Applicants who do not meet this requirement will not be considered for this initial position.
ResponsibilitiesServe as a narrative authority, expanding upon major canon events and timelines while weaving contradictions, cultural tension, and moral ambiguity into storylines.Develop immersive story content ranging from dialogue and logs to large-scale narrative arcs, with room to branch into other formats as the universe grows.Collaborate with design, art, and gameplay teams to ensure story and mechanics strengthen one another.Contribute to a craftsmanship-first storytelling ethos where depth, consistency, and passion matter as much as mechanics.Help establish processes that can scale into a narrative team over time.QualificationsDemonstrated experience in narrative design, fiction writing, or worldbuilding.A strong grasp of thematic writing — contradictions, biased histories, and morally complex characters are where you excel.Excitement for building a universe, not just a single script.Independent and passionate — you treat writing as a craft.Someone who can see themselves evolving into a head-of-narrative voice over time.Writing SamplesAll applicants must complete one of the following prompts (~300–500 words):Prompt A: A society values absolute honesty, yet their entire history is rewritten as propaganda. Write a short in-world account showing how this contradiction shapes everyday life.Prompt B: An alien race must undergo bio-engineered mutation to survive on a new planet. From a scientist’s perspective, explain why the changes are necessary — balancing awe, fear, and reluctant acceptance.Prompt C: A leader who once fought oppression now enforces it. Write their monologue or speech as they justify this contradiction.In addition, provide one of the following:Published work: direct link or clear reference (title, site, or publication).Unpublished work: a short snippet or excerpt from your own writing.CompensationThis role begins as a post-release, revenue-share contract tied to the completion of our first game in the universe. Contributors receive a portion of revenue until their agreed-upon cap is reached.
As the studio grows, additional opportunities may include commissioned projects or other arrangements as cash flow allows. Our intent is to reward contributors fairly as the universe expands beyond its first game.
Why Join UsAt LOI, narrative is not filler — it is the foundation. This role is an opportunity to help architect a universe where contradictions fuel the story, factions resist simple definitions, and players are left questioning the truths they uncover. You will have significant creative freedom within established canon and the chance to grow into a lead narrative position as the studio expands.