How to Apply to Riot Games

11 min read Last updated March 12, 2026 218 open positions
Blake Crosley
Blake Crosley Researched using publicly available information, hiring data, and ATS analysis.

Key Takeaways

  • Riot Games uses a proprietary careers platform at riotgames.com/en/work-with-us — all applications go through their custom system, not a third-party ATS
  • Gaming passion is non-negotiable — every candidate, from finance to engineering, is expected to demonstrate genuine engagement with games and ideally with Riot's own titles
  • The interview process has four main stages: application, recruiter screen, team interviews (including craft tests for creative and technical roles), and offer
  • Craft tests are a defining element for creative and technical roles — treat them as portfolio pieces that showcase both technical skill and creative thinking
  • Most positions require living in the same state or country as your assigned Riot office, even with hybrid work arrangements
  • Use the S.A.O. framework (Setting, Action, Outcome) when answering behavioral interview questions — this is Riot's own recommended approach
  • Riot has 4,500+ employees across 20+ global offices, with major studios in Los Angeles, Seoul, Shanghai, Singapore, Sydney, Dublin, and Berlin
  • Include portfolio links with passwords directly on your resume — removing access friction is critical when reviewers are evaluating hundreds of applications

About Riot Games

Riot Games is the globally renowned game developer behind League of Legends, Valorant, Teamfight Tactics, and the Emmy-winning animated series Arcane. Founded in 2006 with a mission to develop, publish, and support player-focused games, Riot has grown to over 4,500 employees across more than 20 offices worldwide. Headquartered in Los Angeles, California, Riot operates major studios in cities including Seoul, Shanghai, Singapore, Sydney, Dublin, and Berlin. The company is majority-owned by Tencent, the Chinese technology conglomerate, though it maintains independent creative and operational leadership. Riot's game portfolio spans multiple genres — from the flagship MOBA League of Legends and the tactical shooter Valorant, to the auto-battler Teamfight Tactics, the mobile adaptation Wild Rift, the digital card game Legends of Runeterra, the upcoming 2v2 fighter 2XKO, and the physical trading card game Riftbound. Beyond game development, Riot runs one of the largest esports operations in the world, organizing professional leagues for League of Legends and Valorant across every major region. The company's culture centers on five core values: Player First, Serious About Games, Dream and Deliver, In for the Long Term, and One Riot. Employees are known internally as 'Rioters,' and the company expects every team member — regardless of role — to be genuinely passionate about games and gaming culture.

Application Process

  1. 1
    Explore Open Roles on Riot's Careers Page

    Visit riotgames.com/en/work-with-us to browse Riot's current openings. As of early 2026, Riot lists approximately 160+ positions across departments including Engineering, Art, Game Design, Audio, Data Science, Product Management, Production, Esports, and Business Operations. You can filter by location, team, and job type. Read each job description carefully — Riot's postings are detailed and often include specific expectations around gaming knowledge, tools proficiency, and collaboration style. Take note of whether the role is based at a specific office, as most positions require you to live in the same state or country as your assigned studio, even under hybrid arrangements.

  2. 2
    Prepare and Submit Your Application

    Riot uses a proprietary application system built into their careers website. Click 'Apply' on any job posting to begin. You will need to submit your resume, and many roles request a cover letter or additional materials. For creative roles such as art, game design, writing, or engineering, you should include a portfolio link directly on your resume — if your portfolio is password-protected, include the password. Make sure JavaScript is enabled in your browser, as the application form loads dynamically. Tailor every application to the specific role: generic submissions are quickly filtered out. Highlight your gaming experience, relevant projects, and any shipped titles you have contributed to.

  3. 3
    Recruiter Screen

    If your application advances, a Riot recruiter will reach out to schedule an initial phone or video call. This conversation typically covers your professional background, your interest in the specific role, and your alignment with Riot's culture and values. Expect questions about your gaming habits — which Riot games you play, what you enjoy about them, and how your experience connects to the role. The recruiter will also discuss logistics such as location requirements, compensation expectations, and timeline. This is your first opportunity to demonstrate genuine passion for games and for Riot specifically. Be prepared to articulate why you want to work at Riot rather than any other game studio.

  4. 4
    Take-Home Assessment or Craft Test

    Many roles at Riot include a take-home assessment designed to evaluate your hands-on skills. Engineering candidates may receive a coding challenge or system design exercise. Game designers might be asked to create a game design document, balance a system, or critique an existing mechanic. Artists may need to complete a character design, environment piece, or animation test. Writers may receive a narrative design prompt. These assessments are completed on your own time and are evaluated by the team you would be joining. Treat the craft test as a portfolio piece — demonstrate not just technical competence but creative thinking, attention to detail, and an understanding of what makes Riot's games compelling. Not every role requires a craft test, but creative and technical positions almost always do.

  5. 5
    Team Interviews

    The core interview stage consists of multiple sessions with members of the team you would be joining. Interviews are typically conducted via Google Meet (formerly Google Hangouts) for remote stages, or on-site at the relevant Riot office. Expect a mix of behavioral questions, craft-specific deep dives, and culture-fit conversations. Riot interviewers use open-ended questions about your past experiences — the company recommends using the S.A.O. framework (Setting, Action, Outcome) to structure your responses. Each interview session usually reserves around 10 minutes at the end for your questions, so prepare thoughtful ones that demonstrate genuine curiosity about the team, the game, or the company. Panel interviews can be intensive, and Riot encourages candidates to request breaks between sessions if needed. Dress code is casual but presentable.

  6. 6
    Final Evaluation and Offer

    After all interview rounds are complete, the hiring team convenes to evaluate your candidacy holistically — craft skills, cultural alignment, collaboration potential, and growth trajectory. If you are selected, a recruiter will extend a formal offer covering compensation, benefits, start date, and office assignment. Riot offers competitive compensation packages that typically include base salary, bonus, equity (RSUs), and comprehensive benefits. The timeline from application to offer varies by role and team needs, but candidates should expect several weeks for the full process. If you are not selected, Riot generally provides feedback through the recruiter, and the company encourages strong candidates to reapply for future openings.

Resume Tips for Riot Games

critical

Lead with Gaming Experience and Passion

Riot expects every employee to be a gamer. Your resume should make your relationship with games immediately clear — whether that means listing shipped titles you contributed to, personal game projects, modding experience, competitive play history, or deep engagement with Riot's own games. A resume that reads like a generic tech or corporate document without any gaming context will struggle to advance. If you play League of Legends, Valorant, or TFT, mention your rank or engagement level. If you have game jam experience, speedrunning achievements, or community contributions, include them.

critical

Include Portfolio Links with Access Credentials

For any creative or technical role — art, design, engineering, animation, writing, audio — your portfolio is as important as your resume. Include a direct, clickable link to your portfolio on your resume. If the portfolio is password-protected, include the password directly on the resume so reviewers can access it without additional steps. Riot's hiring team reviews hundreds of applications, and any friction in accessing your work reduces your chances. Use platforms like ArtStation, Behance, GitHub, or a personal website.

critical

Quantify Impact with Shipped Products

Riot values people who have delivered real products to real players. Wherever possible, quantify your contributions: 'Designed and balanced 12 champion abilities for a MOBA with 50K daily active players' is far stronger than 'Worked on game design.' Include metrics like player counts, retention improvements, performance optimizations, or revenue impact. If you have worked on live-service games, emphasize your experience with ongoing content updates, player feedback loops, and iterating on shipped features.

recommended

Demonstrate Cross-Functional Collaboration

Riot's 'One Riot' value emphasizes collaboration across teams. Your resume should highlight experiences where you worked across disciplines — for example, an engineer who partnered closely with designers and artists to ship a feature, or a producer who coordinated between engineering, QA, and art teams. Use specific examples that show you can communicate effectively with people outside your own specialty and navigate the complexities of large-scale game development.

recommended

Keep Formatting Clean and ATS-Compatible

While Riot uses a proprietary application system, your resume still needs to be easily parseable. Use standard section headers (Experience, Education, Skills), a single-column layout, and avoid complex graphics, tables, or unusual fonts that might not render correctly in their system. Save as PDF unless the application specifically requests another format. Keep your resume to two pages maximum — Riot reviewers are evaluating craft and culture fit, not reading novels.

recommended

Highlight Relevant Tools and Technologies

List the specific tools, engines, and technologies you are proficient in that are relevant to the role. For engineers: C++, Go, Java, Python, React, cloud infrastructure, distributed systems. For artists: Maya, ZBrush, Substance Painter, Photoshop, Unreal Engine. For designers: Figma, game engines, scripting languages, data analysis tools. Riot develops proprietary technology for many of its games, so demonstrating adaptability with multiple tools is more valuable than deep expertise in a single engine.

nice_to_have

Mention Esports or Competitive Gaming Knowledge

If you are applying to roles in esports operations, broadcasting, or competitive game design, include any experience with competitive gaming ecosystems — tournament organization, broadcast production, league operations, or competitive play at any level. Even for non-esports roles, demonstrating awareness of Riot's competitive scene shows cultural alignment and a deeper understanding of the company's business.

ATS System: Riot Games Custom Careers Platform

Riot Games uses a proprietary, custom-built careers platform integrated directly into riotgames.com rather than a third-party ATS like Greenhouse or Workday. The application system loads dynamically via JavaScript on their careers page. This means the application experience is tightly controlled by Riot and designed to reflect their brand. While the system is not a widely-known ATS, standard resume best practices still apply — clean formatting, standard section headers, and PDF format will ensure your application is processed correctly.

  • Ensure JavaScript is enabled in your browser — the application form will not load without it
  • Upload your resume as a PDF with clean, single-column formatting for optimal parsing
  • Include portfolio links directly in your resume rather than relying on the application form's supplementary fields
  • Tailor your application to each specific role — Riot's system routes applications to individual hiring teams
  • If you apply to multiple roles, submit separate applications for each rather than a single generic submission
  • Check your spam folder for communications from Riot's recruiting team, as automated responses may be filtered

Interview Culture

Riot Games' interview culture is a direct extension of its company values — particularly 'Player First' and 'Serious About Games.' The process is designed to assess not just your professional skills but your genuine passion for games and your ability to thrive in a collaborative, player-obsessed environment. Interviews are conversational rather than adversarial, with interviewers genuinely interested in understanding how you think about problems, how you approach your craft, and how you would contribute to the team. The dress code is casual — Riot is a gaming company, and showing up in a suit would feel out of place. Video interviews are conducted via Google Meet, and the company encourages candidates to test their audio and video setup beforehand. Panel interviews can run long, and Riot explicitly tells candidates to ask for breaks if needed, reflecting a culture that values people over process. For creative and technical roles, the craft test is a defining element — Riot wants to see how you actually work, not just how you talk about working. The company also evaluates cultural alignment through behavioral questions, looking for evidence of the 'One Riot' collaborative mindset and a player-first orientation. Interviewers typically leave 10 minutes for candidate questions at the end of each session, and asking thoughtful, specific questions about the team's current challenges or upcoming projects will set you apart.

What Riot Games Looks For

  • Genuine passion for games — Riot expects every employee, regardless of role, to be an active gamer who can speak authentically about gaming experiences and what makes games compelling
  • Deep craft expertise — Whether you are an engineer, artist, designer, or producer, Riot evaluates your ability to perform at a high level in your specific discipline through portfolio reviews, craft tests, and technical deep-dives
  • Player-first mindset — The ability to make decisions and prioritize work based on what creates the best experience for players, not what is easiest or most convenient for the team
  • Collaborative spirit — Riot's 'One Riot' value means they look for people who work effectively across disciplines, communicate clearly, and elevate the people around them
  • Shipped product experience — Candidates who have delivered real games or features to real players have a significant advantage, as Riot values practical experience over theoretical knowledge
  • Long-term thinking — Riot's 'In for the Long Term' value means they seek people who are building careers, not just looking for their next job, and who think about sustainable solutions rather than quick fixes
  • Cultural contribution — Beyond fitting into the existing culture, Riot looks for people who will actively improve and evolve the team through diverse perspectives, new ideas, and constructive challenge

Frequently Asked Questions

What games does Riot Games currently develop and operate?
Riot Games develops and operates a diverse portfolio of games spanning multiple genres and platforms. Their flagship title is League of Legends, one of the most-played PC games in the world with over 160 champions and a massive global player base. Valorant is their tactical first-person shooter that has rapidly grown into a major esports title. Teamfight Tactics is an auto-battler strategy game available on both PC and mobile. League of Legends: Wild Rift brings the MOBA experience to mobile devices. Legends of Runeterra is a digital card game set in the League of Legends universe. The upcoming 2XKO is a 2v2 fighting game featuring characters from League and the Arcane animated series. Riot also produces Riftbound, a physical trading card game, and created the critically acclaimed animated series Arcane on Netflix.
Do I need to be a gamer to work at Riot Games?
Yes — gaming passion is a core expectation at Riot Games, regardless of your role. Whether you are applying for engineering, art, finance, human resources, or legal, Riot expects every employee to have a genuine connection to games. This does not mean you need to be a professional-level player, but you should be able to speak authentically about games you enjoy, what makes them compelling, and how your work contributes to player experiences. During interviews, expect questions about your gaming habits, which Riot games you have played, and how your understanding of games informs your professional perspective. Candidates who cannot demonstrate genuine interest in gaming culture are unlikely to advance in the process, as Riot's 'Serious About Games' value is deeply embedded in every team.
What is the interview process like at Riot Games?
Riot's interview process follows four main stages. First, you submit your application through their careers website with a tailored resume and any required supplementary materials like portfolios. If selected, a recruiter will schedule an initial screen — a phone or video call to discuss your background, interest in the role, and cultural alignment. The third stage involves multiple team interviews conducted via Google Meet or on-site, covering behavioral questions, craft-specific evaluations, and culture-fit conversations. Many creative and technical roles include a take-home craft test completed between interview stages. Finally, successful candidates receive a formal offer. The timeline varies by role but typically spans several weeks. Riot recommends using the S.A.O. (Setting, Action, Outcome) framework for behavioral questions and encourages candidates to ask for breaks during intensive panel sessions.
What is a craft test and which roles require one?
A craft test is a take-home assessment that Riot uses to evaluate your hands-on abilities in the specific discipline you are applying for. Engineering candidates may receive coding challenges, system design problems, or debugging exercises. Game designers might be asked to create a design document, balance a game system, or provide a detailed critique of an existing game mechanic. Artists may need to complete a character concept, environment piece, or animation sequence. Writers could receive narrative design prompts or world-building exercises. The craft test is completed on your own time and reviewed by the team you would be joining. Not every role requires one — business operations, finance, and some management positions may skip this stage — but it is standard for creative and technical positions. Treat your craft test as a portfolio-quality deliverable that demonstrates both skill and passion.
Does Riot Games offer remote work or do I need to relocate?
Riot Games generally requires employees to live in the same state or country as their assigned office location, even when hybrid work arrangements are available. The company operates major offices in Los Angeles (headquarters), Mercer Island (Washington), Seoul, Shanghai, Singapore, Sydney, Dublin, Berlin, and over a dozen additional cities worldwide. Some roles may offer more flexibility than others, but fully remote positions are the exception rather than the norm at Riot. During the recruiter screen, location requirements and hybrid work policies for your specific role will be discussed. If relocation is required, Riot typically provides relocation assistance as part of the offer package. Candidates should carefully review the location listed on each job posting before applying to ensure it aligns with their situation.
What departments and roles does Riot Games hire for?
Riot Games hires across a wide range of departments and disciplines. Core game development teams include Software Engineering, Game Design, Art (character art, animation, VFX, technical art, concept art), Audio and Music, and QA. Supporting game development are teams in Product Management, Production and Project Management, Data Science and Analytics, and User Research. The esports division hires for league operations, broadcast production, event management, and competitive operations. Business teams include Finance, Legal, Human Resources, Marketing, Communications, and Business Development. Riot also has university programs for emerging talent and maintains a game development resources initiative. With 160+ positions open at any given time across 20+ global offices, the company offers opportunities ranging from entry-level to senior leadership across nearly every discipline found in the gaming industry.
How should I prepare my portfolio for a Riot Games application?
Your portfolio should be easily accessible, well-organized, and directly relevant to the role you are applying for. Include a clickable link on your resume — if the portfolio is password-protected, include the password on the resume itself so reviewers can access it without extra steps. For artists, showcase your strongest work first and include pieces that demonstrate versatility within your specialty, ideally with process breakdowns showing your creative workflow. For engineers, a GitHub profile with well-documented projects, clean code, and README files explaining your design decisions is valuable. For game designers, include design documents, system analyses, or playable prototypes that demonstrate your thinking process. Curate ruthlessly — showing 5 excellent pieces is better than 20 mediocre ones. If you have contributed to shipped games, lead with that work and clearly describe your specific contributions. Tailor the portfolio to Riot's aesthetic and game styles when possible.
What is Riot's company culture like for employees?
Riot's culture is built around five core values: Player First (every decision serves players), Serious About Games (genuine passion for gaming is expected), Dream and Deliver (ambitious vision backed by execution), In for the Long Term (sustainable thinking over quick wins), and One Riot (cross-team collaboration). Employees are called 'Rioters' and the culture emphasizes a flat, collaborative environment where ideas can come from anyone. The company invests in social impact initiatives, sustainability efforts, and diversity and inclusion programs. The dress code is casual, reflecting the gaming industry norm. Riot has faced public scrutiny regarding workplace culture in the past and has made significant investments in improving inclusion and accountability. The company offers competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities to work on some of the most-played games in the world. The esports ecosystem adds a unique dimension — many employees are deeply connected to the competitive gaming community both professionally and personally.
Can I apply to multiple roles at Riot Games simultaneously?
Yes, you can apply to multiple roles at Riot Games, and the company does not penalize candidates for submitting multiple applications. However, each application should be individually tailored to the specific role — submitting the same generic resume and cover letter to multiple positions signals a lack of genuine interest in any particular team. If you are qualified for several roles, prioritize the ones that best match your strongest skills and deepest interests, and customize your resume and supplementary materials for each. Riot's recruiting team can see all of your applications, and a focused, well-tailored submission to two or three roles will make a stronger impression than scattered applications to a dozen positions. If a recruiter identifies you as a strong fit for a different role than the one you applied to, they may proactively suggest the alternative opportunity.

Open Positions

Riot Games currently has 218 open positions.

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