Designing the Pivotal Missions that Drive a Living Sandbox World
Designing the Pivotal Missions that Drive a Living Sandbox World
Crafting missions that set the pace, raise the stakes, and reward every choice for The Godfather II
Crafting missions that set the pace, raise the stakes, and reward every choice for The Godfather II
Inside the Build
This work was led by Jameson Durall — our Founder and Principal — while serving as Mission Design Lead for The Godfather II. He set the thematic tone, narrative stakes, and pacing for the game’s pivotal opening and final missions, personally implementing each. Working closely with the open world team, Jameson ensured mission flow aligned with city activity and player progression, seamlessly bridging systemic economy design with narrative beats.
The Godfather II showcased Jameson’s ability to lead a mission team and deliver an end-to-end player experience: from cinematic setup to systemic chaos. Every choice carried weight, with pacing, player agency, and systemic storytelling woven into a living sandbox world.
“We design narrative arcs built to embrace freedom and consequence”
Built Into Our Process
The same methods that shaped this project are central to our consulting services today. We help studios build missions and gameplay arcs that respect player choice while maintaining narrative momentum. Our approach blends systemic gameplay with crafted storytelling, ensuring that pacing, stakes, and player freedom coexist in a cohesive, memorable experience.
Whether building from the ground up or scaling an existing project, we help teams create experiences that are cohesive, scalable, and truly engaging.
One suite. Three levels of design support.
One suite. Three levels of design support.
Jameson Durall XP offers a three-tier game design consulting suite. Whether you need a fast fix, a production-ready design framework, or full design leadership, we offer support at every level of game development.
Each service is built to meet you where you are. No matter your challenge, there’s a clear path forward for your dev team and your project.
Expertise That Moves Projects Forward
With over 25 years of experience across AAA development and leading high-performing design teams, we know what it takes to build systems that work and experiences that land. Our approach is practical, direct, and grounded in real development without the fluff. Studios work with us because we bring clarity, ask the right questions, and move projects forward with purpose.
With over 25 years of experience across AAA development and leading high-performing design teams, we know what it takes to build systems that work and experiences that land. Our approach is practical, direct, and grounded in real development without the fluff. Studios work with us because we bring clarity, ask the right questions, and move projects forward with purpose.
Our Track Record. Your Advantage.
Our Track Record. Your Advantage.
From high-level concept to the finer points of pacing and progression, great game design comes down to making a million small decisions with intent. We help you make those decisions smarter, faster, and with greater impact.
Let’s Talk Design That Works
You don’t need another vague opinion. You need insight that drives real progress. If you’re facing design chaos, chasing cohesion, or ready to level up your systems, we’re ready to dig in. Get in touch and let’s make something great together.
