Lifelong gamer with core experiences amongst JRPGs, CRPGs, SRPGs, Shmups, Beat-em-ups, retro twitch, and fighting games (formerly a competition level Soul Calibur player). Will always have a special place in my heart for emergent simulations that follow the Looking Glass school of design.

Former games journalist for a humble hardcore gaming website. Spent some time as a chemical engineer before finally deciding to follow my passion. Graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a B.S. in Computer Science in 2000.

Entered the games industry in March of 2000 as a programmer on the Microsoft/Bicycle Casino (PC) line of products developed by Compulsive Development and Glass Eye Entertainment. Went on to join the team at Ion Storm to work on Deus Ex: Invisible War (PC/Xbox) and Thief: Deadly Shadows (PC/Xbox). Spent a short time at TKO Software working on the N-Gage 2.5 SDK. Became a senior programmer at Breakaway Games's Austin studio working on console and PC projects. Served as Lead Programmer on Mushroom Men for the Wii, which was developed by Red Fly Studio. Was a core AI/Gameplay programmer on Dishonored at Arkane Studios in Austin, Texas.

Formerly served as a director of IGDA-Austin focused on running activities for the organization and promoting visibility of the professional game development community in the city. Initiated the tradition of IGDA-Austin Microtalks before handing the torch over to the next generation.

Most recently became a weapon of Harmonix Music Systems in Cambridge, Massachusetts before parting ways to go indie.

Currently a partner of a 3-person indie studio named Question, which recently shipped The Magic Circle.

Portfolio: http://ringofblades.com/Blades/Portfolio/portfolio.html
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kainasylum