Jacques Leemans
Full-Stack Game Developer
Hey!
I'm an Experienced Software Engineering with over 17 years experience in creating apps, games and backend APIs.
Certified Unity Expert Programmer with over 13 years of expertise in creating engaging and immersive games using Unity and C#
Skilled in all aspects of game development, from concept to deployment, including game design, programming, and project management.
Strong understanding of game engines, game industry, game design, programming, physics, mathematics, content pipelines, publishing and distribution.
Proven ability to lead development teams and deliver projects on time and within budget.
Passionate about creating innovative and entertaining games and simulations that push the boundaries of what is possible.
Services
With more than a decade of experience in the game development industry, I have an extensive portfolio of games across all genres, developed for mobile, desktop, and web platforms.
A significant number of the games I have worked on necessitated the integration of various third-party plugins and tools. Some examples of the integrations include Microsoft Azure Playfab, Gamesparks, and Photon for multiplayer functionality, NodeJS and Socket.io for custom real-time servers, WebRTC for real-time communication, Facebook SDK, Google Play, Apple App Store, Kongregate, and Articy Draft 3.
While my primary toolset for 2D and 3D Mobile and WebGL games is Unity and C#, I also have a wealth of experience with Construct 2 and Construct 3 for HTML5 games and animations.
As a Certified Unity Expert Programmer, I specialize in providing game development services using Unity for both 2D and 3D games, which can be deployed on multiple platforms including Mobile, WebGL, and Desktop.
I also utilize Unity to create various simulations and 3D applications for training and visualization purposes.
C2/C3 is my preferred tool for creating HTML5 games, animations, and training.
As a video game consultant, I offer expertise and guidance to individuals or organizations seeking to develop and publish games.
My extensive experience in the game development industry allows me to provide valuable insight into the development process, from concept to launch.
I can assist with the following areas:
- Game Design: I can work with you to refine your game concept, create game mechanics, and ensure the game experience is engaging and enjoyable for players.
- Project Management: I can provide guidance on project management best practices, team structure, task management, and milestone tracking.
- Technical Consulting: I can help you choose the right technology stack and tools for your game development project. I have experience with various game engines, including Unity and Construct 2, and can help you make the right choice for your project.
- Game DevOps Engineer: I can help with automated testing, continuous integration, and continuous deployment to make the development process as fast and efficient as possible.
- Digital Content Production: I can help with streamlining your DCC pipelines with automation tools and best practices.
Whether you're an individual or part of a larger organization, I can help you navigate the complex world of game development and increase the chances of your game's success
I have created numerous GIS apps for individuals and large companies. Examples include vehicle tracking, indoor navigation, drone path simulation, and architectural data visualization.
I can provide assistance with the following:
- 3D GIS Apps using Unity along with Mapbox, WRLD, or Google Maps.
- 2D GIS Apps using Angular, Leaflet, HERE Maps, ESRI ArcGIS and Google Maps
Experience
Responsibilities:
- Design and Develop `Blocktava` for Triple Dot Studios
- Unity and C# Development
- Technical requirement analasis
- Create Work-break-down (WBS) from requirements
- Created Solution and Software Architecture
- Setup CI/CD Pipelines using Github Actions
- Provide technical training to team on Unity and Git
- Development gameplay systems and modules for Block matching mobile game
- Create technical documentation and manuals
- Leason with Publisher developers, QA and backend team to implement Game Server Features
- Implement native mobile plugins
Responsibilities:
- Develop and maintain Unity CI/CD Pipelines using Gitlab and Fastlane
- Unity and C# Development
- Addressables Build Pipeline and distribution with Firebase and GCP
- Gradle troubleshooting
- XCode troubleshooting
- 3rd Party Plugin Integration
Responsibilities:
XGameDev is a full-stack game development studio I founded
Our focus is providing development services
Services include:
- Unity3D Game Development
- Game Development
- Educational Game Development
- Casual Game Development
- Competitive Game Development
- HTML5 Game Development
- Facebook Game Development
- Mobile Game Development
- 2D Game Development
- 3D Game Development
- Desktop & PC Game Development
- Construct 2 Game Development
- Multiplayer Game Development
- Online Game Development
- Cross-Platform Game Development
- Mobile Application Development
- Web Application Development
- Prototype Development
- Flash to HTML5 Conversion
- HTML5 Animations
- API Development
Responsibilities:
- Creating 3D Simulations and training apps for an Australian Government entity using C#/Unity with SCORM integration.
- Custom Moodle Plugin Development using PHP, LTI 1.2 and 1.3 Advantage, AWS EC2, Bitnami, Apache, MariaDB, SSL, and Lets Encrypt.
Responsibilities:
- Created solution architecture diagrams from existing code base.
- Code reviews.
- Provided technical training on Unity, Git, and Articy Draft.
- Designed and developed gameplay systems.
- Integrated Steam SDK.
- Integrated Playfab.
- Implemented CI/CD using Github Actions, Gulp, and Bash automation.
- Implemented TDD using NUnit and test runners in Unity.
- Restructured Unity project.
- Set up assembly definitions and dependencies.
Responsibilities:
- Design Solution Architecture for a Metaversity (Virtual Campus) for one of Australia's leading Universities.
- Design and Implement Security compliances, policies, and strategies.
- Design and implement large-scale source control using Git, GT LFS, GitFlow, DevOps, CI/CD for app and content distribution.
- Design and Develop SSO solution using TDD, OAuth 2.0, OIDC, JWT, OKTA, AWS EC2, MongoDB, NodeJS, ExpressJS, PassportJS, and MongooseJS
- Design and Develop Real-time Server-Autharative MMO Server using NodeJS, Socket.io, WebRTC, MongoDB, JWT, TDD, AWS EB, AWS Cloudfront
- Design and Develop custom CMS, LMS, LRS with Moodle integration using LTI 3.0 Advantage.
- Developed using NodeJS, and ExpressJS, deployed to AWS EB.
- Design and Develop Frontend Web-based applications using Unity, C#, Socket.io. Deployed to AWS S3 as Static Web App.
- Document and diagram Solution Architecture, Software architecture, User flow, User journey, TRS, User Manuals, Technical Manuals
- Manage projects using Jira, Asana, Agile Scrum
Responsibilities:
- All software development at Drop Bear Bytes, creating Broken Roads RPG
- Solution Architecture for Broken Roads solution, which included Articy Draft 3, an Angular Web App (CMS), NodeJS Automation, Bash Automation and Unity project for the game itself
- Articy Draft 3
- Implementation of custom fragments, from data design to implementation in Unity/C#
- Created custom Articy Draft 3 Plugins using C#/WPF
- Angular 9 WebApp
- Inhouse custom tool, which was used as a CMS for the game items, characters, POI, locations, etc...
- Software Architecture and development of the SPA using Angular, Firebase, NodeJS, Leaflet
- NodeJS and Bash Automation
- Source control automation and Content automation tools
- Unity and C#
- Design and development of all systems and modules in the game, from Gameplay, UI, Persistence, AI, Dialogue, Quests, Characters, Editor Tools, to name just a few.
- Provided technical support to Level designers, narrative team, and content team
- Provided source control support and training to the entire team
- Created and maintained technical standards, documents, and diagrams.
- Created technical hand-over documents for Team17 and The Knights of Unity
Responsibilities:
- Enterprise architecture between 4 different business entities, and dozens of solutions and applications.
- Solution architecture for NoMeLoMe, which is a multi-platform interactive eBook app for kids.
- Design and development of backend microservices using NodeJS, ExpressJS, Firebase, MongoDB, AWS EC2, AWS S3
- Design and development of cross-platform front-end application using Unity and C#, deployed to iOS, Android, tvOS, WebGL, macOS, FireTV, and Windows.
- Design and development of Digital Content Creation (DCC) processes and automation using Bash, NodeJS, Imagemagick, FFMPEG, Google Drive, Google Sheets, Google Docs, Photoshop, SVG, Image processing, Video transcribing, Video transcoding, Text-to-speech, IMB Watson Bluemix.
- Design and development of content management system using Angular, NgRX, TypeScript, and Firebase.
Responsibilities:
- Desing and developed a Browser-based 3D GIS application for dynamic building simulation using real-world data using Unity C#, NodeJS, MongoDB, Mapbox, Google Maps and GeoJSON
Responsibilities:
- Develop Proof of Concept (POC) mobile applications using Ionic/Angular Framework and Unity
- GIS using Openstreetmaps, Openstreetmap buildings, Leaflet, Google Maps, HERE Maps
- BLE Beacons for close proximity location services
- Create Server side services using NodeJS, Express and MongoDB (MEAN Stack)
- Design and Develop RESTful API
- Real-time event driven communication using Socket.IO
- Research and Development of Indoor wayfinding/navigation solution
- Face and voice recognition using Microsoft Cognitive
- Blender, InkScape for all 3D and 2D graphics.
- Agile Scrum using Jira
- Source control using Git (Stash, BitBucket and Github)
- Cisco CMX
- Test Driven Development using Mocha
- RAML API design using Mulesoft
- CI/CD with Visual Studio Team Services
Responsibilities:
- Technical Specification Development
- Game Design/Architecture
- GUI prototyping and design
- Website development using HTML, CSS, JavaScript and PHP
- HTML5 Game Development using Construct 2
- Unity3D Game development using C#
- 3D Modeling and Animation in Blender 3D
- Graphics design using InkScape and GIMP
- Audio editing using Audacity and Reaper.
- PHP/MySQL RESTFUL API
- WordPress
- Agile project management
- Source Control using GIT (Github)
- GameChange5.com management platform
- Research and consulting for emerging technology recommendations
Responsibilities:
- Integrate and maintain Photon Multiplayer SDK into Block Gun 3D Mobile games series
- Design, develop, and maintain real-time multiplayer components.
- Developed real-time multiplayer hover-craft mechanics.
- General game design, level design, and C# programming
Responsibilities:
- Game design lecture for 2nd and 3rd-year students
- Taught the students Unity3D and Construct 2 (HTML 5)
Responsibilities:
- Develop and maintain ExcuFleet, TEMS and Agility Lead Generator using C# .Net 4
- Design Graphics User Interface using Windows Presentation Foundation (WPF)
- Develop data services using Windows Communication Foundation (WCF) for all SQL database communication
- Testing, debug and quality assurance on ExcuFleet and TEMS
- Source control using Team Foundation Server
- Develop Geographical Information Systems (GIS) maps using ESRI ArcGIS WPF API for geofencing, geolocation and reverse geocoding.
- 3D Mascot modelling and animation in Blender 3D
- Researching, consulting, analyzing and evaluating system program needs in an objective orientated using Microsoft .Net 4.
- Identifying technology limitations and deficiencies, risks in existing systems and associated processes, procedures and methods, code metrics, and software reliability
- Programming, testing, debugging and diagnosing in a the C# programming language within testing protocols, guidelines and quality standards to ensure programs and applications perform to specification and satisfy user requirements
- Maintaining and writing program code to meet system requirements, system designs and technical specifications in accordance with quality standards as specified
- Writing, updating and maintaining technical program, end user documentation and operational procedures and Identifying new computer technologies for possible incorporation
Responsibilities:
- Software Development
- Process Control
- Automation
- Telemetry systems
Responsibilities:
- Development and maintenance of SSE Communication (OPC) server using C#, WPF, VB6, SQL, Microsoft Access, CSV and DevExpress
- Detailed hardware design, circuit design and PCB layout of electronic products using Orcad
- The development of embedded firmware of various SSE products using Infineon C161-16 microcontroller and AVR ATMEGA168 - 8 bit microcontroller.
- C and Assembler programming
- Created ISO9001 Documentation, Bill-of-Materials and Test Procedures (TRS) for the products.
- The QA and testing of the developed firmware.
- The development of the Domino product, a Ladder Logic Simulation App, using C#/WPF
- On-site and Offsite support for the complete range of SSE products
- Version Control using TortoiseSVN
- Electronic Packaging design using Solidworks, 3d Printing.
- Label designs Expression Design and CorelDRAW®
- Communication Protocol development: RS232, RS485, TCP/IP, GPRS, SMS, FSK, GSM Modems, OPC, SCADA, ABB, Alstom, HART, Modbus, XModem, CCI, DNP3
Responsibilities:
- Electrical Designs
- Electrical contracting
- PLC Programming
- PCB Design
- Component Sourcing
- 3D CAD Drawings and enclosure design
- Automation
- Process Control
Responsibilities:
- Supervision of Test Operators
- Fault-finding and repair down to component level
- Anti-static measures - equipment testing and audits
- Compilation of Test Procedures
- Completion of Test Result reports and lists
- Design, procurement, implementation and maintenance of custom test jigs and assemblies
- Filing, issuing and general configuration control of procedures and result records
Responsibilities:
- ISO9001 Quality Assurance on all manufactured electronic products, either produced by SSE Production Department or by sub-contractors.
- Factory testing of all new products as they leave the production line.
- Fault finding and repair work on the complete range of SSE electronic products.
- Assistance in the assembly line of enclosures for complete solution sets.
- Assistance in the general tasks and management of the QA and testing department.
Responsibilities:
- Assembly, wiring, & testing of automated guided vehicles (AGV)
Responsibilities:
- Planning, assembly, and wiring of Distribution, PLC, Extruders, and Caterpillar panels.
- PCB repairs of WK 240 computers, SSD drives, fault-finding on various temperature control systems.
Education
Unity Certified Expert: Programmer
Online Courses and Certifications
I have completed over 300 courses on sites like LinkedIn Learning, Udemy and Treehouse
National Diploma in Eletrical Engineering
University of South AfricaApproved by ACS as an Advanced Diploma in Computer Science
Reviews
Excellent at bringing a large project a scalable project to life, or as a value add to an existing project.
His foundational programming contribution to Broken Roads was an eye-opening window into the application of SOLID principles.
In addition, his efficiency with time management, and deep knowledge of project management make him a very easy recommendation for other projects.
He has a great balance of approachable, no BS, and a genuine love for the craft of making games.
Jacques was great to work with, displayed a high level of collaboration, was always generous with his time to ensure knowledge sharing and was a true team player.
His technical knowledge, capability and learning aptitude were impressive.
In addition, he shows a genuine passion for technology and care for people.
Good communication, excellent guidance through work process.
Prompt delivery and met scope as required, on time and on budget.
Jacques was knowledgeable and efficient in his area of work and communicated well which made for a successful project.
5/5 Starts
Jacques was quick to tackle our project and help us along.
While there were ultimately some technical barriers on our behalf in getting the project completed, Jacques provided comprehensive feedback to help us assess our next steps internally.
Will reach out again for our next projects.
A year ago we started working with Jacques and we feel very fortunate for his contributions.
Jacques is brilliant, passionate and at the top of his field.
His ethics and attention to detail should be the standard for any freelancer to strive for.
We will definitely look for opportunities to work with him again
Myself coming from the world of film & television and new to the world of gaming development I could not have worked with a better collaborator on our project than Jacques.
His breadth of experience and technical knowledge across Unity and software development is outstanding.
On top of that he is a fantastic team member nothing phases him and I look forward to further working with him.
Jacques is one of the most talented and well-diversified developers and technical problem solvers that I've worked with.
I have found Jacques approachable and always willing to share his knowledge and experience with others.
I have learnt a lot from him. He will be an asset to any team.
Jacques is one of the most talented software developers that I came across and the amount of effort that he put into his work is above normal.
Jacques is proven himself as a loyal and hardworking individual, going the extra mile to complete projects on time and producing deliverables exceeding the client's expectations.
He shows initiative and proficiency in the tasks that is given to him, showcasing his development skills and analytical experience.
His engineering background and understanding of technical interfaces gives extra depth and perception to solve problem areas, efficiently and effectively.
Jacques has the following qualities:
- hard working
- analytical
- problem solver (won't rest until an issue or problem has been resolved)
- intuitive
- go getter
- perfectionist