Hi, I'm Kivin Heiden

Game Programmer & Unreal Developer.

I design and build immersive gameplay systems that feel responsive, polished, and fun to play.

About me

A bit about
who I am

I'm a Game Programmer focused on building reliable, scalable gameplay systems that deliver responsive and engaging player experiences. I enjoy turning ideas into polished, playable mechanics through clean and maintainable code.

My work spans gameplay logic, AI, tools, and system design. I value clear solutions, iteration, and collaboration to build systems that are both fun to play and solid under the hood.

Kivin Heiden

Skills & tools

Unreal Engine Blueprints C++ Git / GitHub Unity C# Aseprite Multiplayer

Experience

Where I've worked & grown

Professional Experience

Lead Gameplay Programmer

WRKS Games

Leading gameplay development for Lord of Kensai, a UE5 city-builder using C++ and Blueprints. Working on core gameplay systems, modular architecture, UI, simulation, building placement, logistics, and data-driven workflows while improving stability and supporting the development team.

Game Developer Intern

Cyrus 365

Contributing to gameplay mechanics and core system implementation. Working across multiplayer features, API-driven JSON workflows, and UI development with C++ while debugging and iterating inside a production environment.

Gameplay Programmer Intern

Arcanion

Built and refined gameplay systems with Unreal Engine Blueprints and C++. Collaborated with the team to prototype mechanics, improve player interactions, and debug features in a real-world development pipeline.

Academic Journey

Bachelor of Science in Game Programming

ICAT College of Design & Media

Currently pursuing a B.Sc. in Game Programming, building a technical foundation through hands-on development. The program focuses on creating responsive gameplay systems and interactive experiences that feel engaging and purposeful.

Portfolio

A look at what I've built

Escape Blitz
Unity 2D C# Multiplayer

Escape Blitz

A 2D multiplayer game developed in Unity. Communication is your greatest tool—coordinate with your team to overcome brutal, team-based challenges.

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Zenith
Unreal Engine C++ Multiplayer

Zenith

A fast-paced multiplayer shooter built in Unreal Engine 5. Combines C++ and Blueprints with Steam Online Subsystem and a unique comic-style cel-shading material for tactical, high-energy matches.

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Santa's Journey
Unreal Engine Blueprints

Santa's Journey

A festive, isometric puzzle-adventure developed in Unreal Engine. Deliver presents across illusion-based puzzles that shift paths and environments for a cozy holiday challenge.

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Tower Fall
Unity 3D C#

Tower Fall

A fast, addictive spiral-drop game: guide a ball down a spiraling tower, dodge obstacles, and time precision drops to survive.

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Rogue Rush
Unreal Engine Blueprints

Rogue Rush

An endless runner developed in Unreal Engine where reflexes meet strategy. Features dynamic obstacle systems, 3-lane movement, retargeted animations, handcrafted levels, and a custom curved shader for immersive visuals.

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Monster Chef
Unreal Engine C++ Blueprints

Monster Chef

A cozy cooking game developed in Unreal Engine where you play a friendly monster chef serving drive-thru burger orders—charming visuals and relaxing, addictive gameplay.

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Get in touch

Let's work
together

I’m open to game programming opportunities, freelance projects, and long-term collaborations. Gameplay systems, multiplayer, or bringing a new idea to life — let’s talk.