There could be a brand new Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games in the works, at least according to a recent job listing at developer and publisher SEGA. The successful candidate for this particular position, Client Programmer, will apparently be dealing with both Sonic and the Olympics in some capacity.
“You will be responsible for the programming work involved in the development of video game titles using in-house engines in addition to Unity and UnrealEngine,” the description translated from Japanese into English begins. “Depending on the specifications and given requirements for the project, you will be able to communicate and solve problems or issues regardless of your occupation. Those who have experience in leadership will initially start working as a higher level engineer and will be appointed as a leader after understanding the internal development flow.”
When it comes to responsibilities, the successful candidate will be able to handle “various system designs that control the game progress of the titles in charge, system designs such as player behavior, enemies, UI, object creation” as well as “implementation of game effects expression utilizing physical behavior” along with “verification of feasibility of planning, specifications, and technical issues.”
The position requires “more than 3 years of practical experience in the consumer game programming in C++” in addition to “basic knowledge and practical experience in 3D game development.” The successful candidate will possess “experience developing high end titles such as PS4, Xbox One or higher, Nintendo Switch, PC.” Nice to haves include “practical experience with Unreal Engine 4, action game development experience, network game production experience, basic knowledge of 3D mathematics and physics” as well as “program leader experience in consumer game development practice.”
The job listing most notably includes links to the websites for both Sonic Channel and Olympic Games Tokyo 2020: The Official Video Game.
Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games came out on November 1, 2019 for the Nintendo Switch. “Team up with Mario, Sonic, and friends on Nintendo Switch in action packed sporting events! Bring your best moves to the track, the gym, the ring, or the water in dozens of different party games everyone will enjoy,” the official description reads. “Skateboard, surf, and race your way to the top! With more than 30 events to master in this fun filled Olympic Games contest, there are plenty of ways to prove your skills to your friends in multiplayer mode.”