Mihai Paduretu

Game & Level Designer

— Portfolio —

Root Access

Role: Level Designer
Duration: 4 months
Genre: Stealth

A non-linear stealth puzzle game where you infiltrate corporate networks, outwit security, and escape with the data (without ever throwing a punch!).
The main focus of this project was to create a playable space that incorporated radial level design, and accommodated different play styles.

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Lumber

Role: Level Designer
Duration: 2 months
Genre: Multiplayer FPS

A King of the Hill map for Team Fortress 2. The map combines sawmill interiors, interconnecting caves, and open-air arenas for a varied and chaotic experience!
The goal of this map was to use a map editor to create a polished experience that would feel at home in the base game.

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Ah! Plastic Attack!

Role: Game Designer
Duration: 6 months
Genre: Action-adventure

A light-hearted mobile game where you turn your house upside-down in order to catch microplastic enemies and replace them with greener alternatives..
I designed and implemented the main gameplay systems of the game. Made in collaboration with the University of Groningen.

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Super Slime Swiper

Role: Game Designer
Duration: 3.5 months
Genre: Beat ‘em up

A lightning-fast, retro-inspired beat ’em up where you swipe to slice through waves of relentless Slimes and unlock powerful combos.
Through this game, I explored mobile affordances in order to design interesting game mechanics unique to the platform.

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One Bullet With Yer Name On It

Role: Game & Level Designer
Duration: 3 months
Genre: Adventure
A comedic adventure through the booze-soaked memories of Justice Joe, a retired gunslinger recounting his Wild West revenge tale … poorly.
Through this game, I explored how to seamlessly intertwine narrative with gameplay and integrate multiple story endings.

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Last Stand

Role: Game Designer
Duration: 3 months
Genre: Wave-based FPS
A brutal wave-based FPS set in the doomed city of Dreadburg, where you'll fight to survive against relentless hordes of the undead.
The goal of this game was to design tight FPS mechanics and integrate gameplay with a heart-pounding metal soundtrack.

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Reputation Zero

Role: Level Designer
Duration: 6 months
Genre: Puzzle-adventure

Investigate a chilling crime scene, gather evidence, and interrogate suspects—then piece together the truth in your office to bring justice to the haunted heart of West Leanne.
The main focus of this project was to create a dense level filled with environmental storytelling.

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— About Me —

Heya, Mihai here!

For as long as I can remember, games have been more than just a hobby for me. Games have always been a source of wonder and inspiration. These feelings stuck with me, and over time, grew into a deep desire to create experiences that others could enjoy.

After trying out a career path in an unrelated field and realizing the spark just wasn’t there, I made the decision to pursue game development. Looking back, it was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made in my life!

In 2024, I completed an internship as a Game Designer at Liquid Ice Studios. The experience there greatly improved my hard and soft skills and taught me awesome lessons to be prepared for the game industry. I’m currently finishing my Bachelor's in Creative Media and Game Technologies at Hanze (with graduation set for 2025), and I can hardly wait to be part of the industry again!

As a game and level designer, my focus is on crafting compelling mechanics that seamlessly integrate with the playable spaces they inhabit. I think games are at their best when they’re intuitive, engaging, and, above all, fun. That philosophy guides everything I create, from the smallest interaction to entire levels. I’m also aware that you can’t always get it right from the offset, so I’m always open to feedback and ready to iterate.

On the team side, I always focus on bringing cheer and positivity to the team I'm working with. Game development can be tough and stressful at times, so I do my part to make the process smoother and more enjoyable for everyone.

When I’m not making (or playing) games, you’ll probably find me in the kitchen trying out new recipes, listening to hip hop or jazz, or watching movies—shout out to Wes Anderson!