- Mohammad AL Khatatbeh has collaborated with five different game studios in Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar.
- “Game development is not just a job for me; it’s a way to share my passion for games and storytelling with the world,” says Mohammad AL Khatatbeh.
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Behind every game, there is a team of creative developers bringing it to life. In our Jobs in Games series, we shine a spotlight on individuals working in the games industry, from seasoned developers with successful projects to newcomers breaking into the field.
We delve into their journey into the industry and gather insights and advice for aspiring game developers.
In this interview, we connect with Mohammad AL Khatatbeh, senior game developer at Sandsoft, with over 13 years of experience in the mobile games industry.
PocketGamer.biz: Could you tell us about your entry into the games industry?
Mohammad AL Khatatbeh: My introduction to the gaming world was like a dream. In my final year of university, a professor offered me an opportunity to join a local game company looking for talented students, which I eagerly accepted. As a lifelong gamer, turning my passion into a profession was a dream come true.
I started working on text-based PHP games for Facebook, sparking my interest in game development. This led me to explore Unity, and after learning Unity 2.6 on my own, I proposed creating a 3D game to my team leaders.
With the team’s approval, we poured our energy into creating a 3D shooter for Facebook using Unity. This project demonstrated new possibilities and opened doors to exciting opportunities.
Over the years, I have collaborated with game studios in Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar, contributing to over 10 games on Android and iOS, each advancing my career.
What led you to become a senior game developer at Sandsoft?
I was intrigued by the gaming industry’s developments, especially around Saudi Vision 2023, where I discovered Sandsoft. Their ambitious vision to be a global leader in game publishing and development caught my attention.
“Growing up as a gamer, I was captivated by the worlds, stories, and experiences that games offered.”
Mohammad AL Khatatbeh
What drew me to Sandsoft was their unique team culture and the talented individuals behind it. The environment at Sandsoft fosters creativity and exploration, empowering employees to innovate freely.
Working alongside experienced and passionate game developers on successful franchises was an invaluable opportunity I couldn’t resist.
Why pursue a career in games, and if not games, what would you be doing?
If not in the games industry, I would delve into data science. Analyzing data to unveil patterns and insights brings me immense satisfaction. The prospect of leveraging data for problem-solving and informed decisions fascinates me.
However, gaming has always resonated with me. Games have inspired me with their narratives and experiences since childhood, making game development a natural choice for me.
Games weren’t just entertainment; they were a wellspring of inspiration and awe. Transitioning into game development allowed me to channel that passion into my professional endeavors.
Reflecting on the past year, any highlights, and future aspirations?
The past year was transformative for me and my team at RUH Studio – Sandsoft. Together, we refined our prototyping processes, laying a solid foundation for the studio’s future.
Under the leadership of our head of studio, Yahsir Qureshi, and our CTO, Ahmed Sharif, we defined processes to deliver high-quality games.
“There’s something incredibly rewarding about taking a vision and turning it into an interactive experience that players around the world can enjoy.”
Mohammad AL Khatatbeh
Looking ahead, my goal is to continue learning, mentoring, and growing alongside the team to propel the company to a leadership position in the games industry.
Collectively, we aim to develop games that resonate with players, contributing significantly to the company’s growth.
What does a typical day at Sandsoft look like for you, and do you have any pre-office rituals?
Upon reaching the office, I grab a cup of coffee to organize my thoughts and set daily goals. This simple routine helps me maintain focus, energy, and readiness to tackle challenges. I start the day by reading gaming and tech news to stay abreast of industry trends.
Aligning personal priorities with team goals ensures cohesive progress. Coding, debugging, and collaborative brainstorming occupy a significant portion of my day, reflecting Sandsoft’s culture of collaboration.
What fascinates you the most about working in the games industry?
The dynamic and evolving nature of the work is what excites me the most. Each day presents new challenges and opportunities for innovation, keeping the job engaging and dynamic.
This constant evolution allows for endless experimentation, innovation, and pushing the boundaries of gaming experiences.
Another aspect I cherish is translating ideas into interactive experiences through programming. Crafting experiences that captivate and entertain players globally is immensely gratifying.
Share a memorable, funny, or unexpected experience from your game development journey.
One memorable moment was in 2011 when our online shooter game was showcased at a conference in the Dead Sea, Jordan, where the King of Jordan played our game. Seeing our work highlighted in major newspapers the next day was surreal but deeply rewarding.
If you could play one game for life, what would it be and why?
Outside Sandsoft’s portfolio, Command & Conquer: Zero Hour would be my game of choice. The strategic depth and enduring appeal of this game make it a timeless favorite. Its balance and tactical richness offer a fresh and exciting experience with every playthrough.
“Waking up the next morning to see our pictures in all the major newspapers with the King playing our game, was surreal.”
Mohammad AL Khatatbeh
Any tips for aspiring game developers and advice for those facing challenges in their careers?
Stay passionate and embrace self-learning to stand out in the competitive games industry. Continuous skill development and staying ahead of technological trends are key to success.
Take charge of your growth by experimenting, building, and enhancing your skills. Proactivity and forward-thinking are vital traits to thrive in the industry.
The MENA region offers burgeoning opportunities in the games industry; harness this potential by staying updated and seizing the emerging prospects.
What current projects are you working on, and what can we anticipate from you in the future?
Our focus at the studio centers on midcore games, particularly in strategy and RPG genres with groundbreaking prototypes in development. These projects aim to redefine gaming experiences, merging innovation with top-tier gameplay quality.
Our goal is to pioneer fresh and captivating games, elevating player experiences through experimentation, iteration, and refinement. Expect revolutionary games that set new benchmarks in the industry.
Looking for opportunities in the games industry? Check out the Careers Zone at our Pocket Gamer Connects events, collaborating with Games Factory Talents for the upcoming event on October 1st and 2nd at PGC Helsinki.
