Riku Heino
About Riku Heino
Riku Heino is a Senior Game Designer at Pixel United in Helsinki, Finland, where he has worked since 2022. With a background in various roles at Rovio Entertainment and a strong interest in player agency and game systems, he emphasizes continuous self-improvement in game design.
Work at Pixel United
Riku Heino has been employed as a Senior Game Designer at Pixel United since 2022. In this role, he focuses on various aspects of game design, contributing to the development of engaging gaming experiences. His position is based in Helsinki, Uusimaa, Finland, where he collaborates with a team of professionals in the gaming industry. Heino's commitment to continuous self-improvement aligns with Pixel United's innovative approach to game design.
Previous Experience at Rovio Entertainment
Before joining Pixel United, Riku Heino held multiple positions at Rovio Entertainment Corporation. He served as Game Design Craft Lead for seven months in 2021 to 2022, following two years as a Senior Game Designer from 2019 to 2021. His tenure at Rovio included a four-year period as a Game Designer from 2015 to 2019, where he contributed to the design of various games, enhancing player engagement and gameplay mechanics.
Education and Expertise
Riku Heino earned a Bachelor of Culture and Arts from Tampere University of Applied Sciences (Tampere UAS), completing his studies from 2009 to 2014. Additionally, he pursued a Minor in Game Design at NHL University of Applied Sciences, studying Communication & Multimedia from 2012 to 2013. His educational background provides a foundation for his expertise in game design, with a particular interest in player agency, emergent gameplay, and game systems.
Background in Game Design
Riku Heino's career in game design began with various roles that helped shape his skills and knowledge in the field. He worked as a Game Designer and 2D Artist at NHL Hogeschool for four months in 2012, and later as a Designer at Demola (Hermia Ltd.) in 2011. He also completed a trainee position as a Game Designer and 2D Artist at Wooga via Demola in 2012. These experiences contributed to his understanding of game mechanics and design principles.
Philosophy on Game Design
Riku Heino views game design as a lifelong learning experience. He believes that continuous self-improvement and development are essential in the field, which keeps the work engaging and dynamic. His strong interest in player agency and emergent gameplay reflects his commitment to creating meaningful gaming experiences that resonate with players.