HT Games
The primary answer: Programmer (or Software Engineer).
| Role | Focus | Also Called |
|---|---|---|
| Programmer | Code: gameplay, engine, tools, graphics, AI, network | Gameplay Engineer, Engine Programmer, Tools Programmer |
| Producer | Schedule, budget, team coordination, stakeholder liaison | Project Manager, Development Director |
| Product Manager | Features, metrics, monetization, live ops | Live Ops PM, Growth PM |
| Pixel Artist / 2D Artist | Sprites, UI, backgrounds | Pixel Artist, 2D Game Artist |
| 3D Artist / Modeler | Characters, environments, props | Character Artist, Environment Artist |
| Technical Artist | Bridge art ↔ code (shaders, rigging, pipelines) | Tech Artist |
| Planner / Game Designer | Systems, levels, economy, balance | Game Designer, Systems Designer, Level Designer |
| Playtester / QA | Find bugs, balance feedback | QA Tester, User Researcher |
| Publisher | Funding, marketing, distribution, IP strategy | — |
Programmer writes the code that makes the game run. Game Designer decides what the game is. Both "make" it — differently.
If you meant a specific job title you heard: "Principal Engineer," "Producer," "Product Owner," "Pipeline TD" — all start with P.