Deconstructor of Fun 283. How I Went From a 3D Artist to GM of a Billion-Dollar Game - Justin McFarlane
May 12, 2025
Justin McFarlane, General Manager at SciPlay and former 3D artist, shares his inspiring career journey in game development. He discusses navigating remote work challenges and the importance of team cohesion during transitions. McFarlane emphasizes continuous learning and purpose-driven choices, revealing how these elements fueled his growth. He also dives into mastering LiveOps, highlighting strategies for engaging players and optimizing game content. His insights provide a fresh perspective on leadership in the gaming industry.
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Managing Team Relocation
- Transitioning teams to a single location involved onboarding, visits, and tough personnel decisions.
- During transition, leadership roles shifted with executives stepping in to cover gaps and empower relocated team members.
From Artist to GM Journey
- Justin began as a 3D artist at SciPlay and grew with the company over 17 years.
- The company’s willingness to innovate and empower talent enabled his career growth from art to general management.
Learn Broadly for Career Growth
- Focus on learning new skills and understanding different roles instead of fixating on a specific position.
- Be proactive in seeking knowledge and identifying organizational gaps to grow your career.
