Mike Ptak

Mike Ptak has a diverse work experience in the gaming industry. Mike has worked as a Freelance Designer and Writer at Stratosphere Games GmbH since February 2019, where they have contributed to games such as Homeworld Mobile, Dawn of Ages, and an unannounced title. In this role, they collaborate with game designers, lead artists, and team leaders to establish project vision and narrative scope.

Mike also worked as a Story Consultant at SuperGaming from August 2021 to August 2022. During this time, they wrote a story pitch for Indus Battle Royale and developed a compelling setting and narrative for the game world in collaboration with the team.

Before that, they worked as a Freelance Graphic Designer at Pilot Illustration from February 2018 to May 2020, providing services such as creating artwork to client specifications, including info graphics, flyers, pamphlets, branding, iconography, and illustration.

In 2019, they also worked as a Contract Writer at MODIPHIUS ENTERTAINMENT LTD, where they served as a consultant for the Homeworld lore, created documentation, and provided suggestions for story direction for Homeworld: Revelations.

Furthermore, they have worked as a Freelance Artist at Leder Games in October to December 2018, collaborating with Patrick Leder to create high-quality prototype mockups for board game elements and expansions, as well as providing gameplay and design feedback.

Prior to their work in the gaming industry, Mike Ptak worked as a Freelance Artist from August 2011 to December 2018 as a self-employed individual. Mike has also gained experience as a Customer Experience Specialist at 1+1 TECHNOLOGY from February 2017 to February 2018.

In addition, they have volunteered as a QA Playtester for Fantasy Flight Games from September 2013 to September 2017, play-testing products for Star Wars: X-Wing and Armada miniatures games and providing detailed feedback and improvement suggestions.

Lastly, they worked as a Production Assistant at Dakota Interactive in June to October 2013, specializing in map and environment design for Fatal Frontier, where they edited, created, and updated individual map files and assets and coordinated with project managers.

Mike Ptak has also worked as a Contractor and Consultant at Blackbird Interactive, Inc from June 2012 to September 2013.

Mike Ptak's education history began in 2001 when they attended Granada High School and received a General Education degree. After graduating from high school in 2004, they went on to attend California State University - East Bay from 2007 to 2009, where they obtained a degree in ART with a Graphic Design option. Following this, from 2009 to 2010, Mike Ptak studied Video Game Design at Ohlone College. In 2010 to 2011, they pursued Visual Communications at Las Positas College. Lastly, from 2014 to 2016, they obtained a Certificate of Accomplishment in Computer Science from Ohlone College.