As transmedia storytellers, one of our primary goals is to create an immersive experience for our audience, but what is that, and how do we do it?
In the context of telling a given story, you could say immersion is about minimizing the gap between the part of your mind that entertains fantasy and the part that experiences reality. It’s about creating a storytelling space where the audience feels they’ve momentarily inhabited the story. Â
There are many ways to achieve this, like engaging multiple senses, creating photorealistic 3D environments, or inspiring a meaningful connection to your characters. Different media provide different opportunities for immersion.
Achieving immersion through fictional podcasts.
The Unknown 9 narrative universe promises stories of mystery and the paranormal. It’s all about what exists in the shadows, what’s just out of sight. Â
There’s no more powerful tool for conjuring images of indescribable danger than your imagination. As storytellers in an audio-only medium, if we can use words and a soundscape effectively, the audience then mentally leans into the story, providing the visuals in their mind’s eye, effectively co-creating the immersion with us.
How transmedia extends immersive storytelling experiences.
That’s the end of the story for most scripted fictional podcasts. But Out of Sight is part of Unknown 9’s fictional transmedia universe,which presents us with even more opportunities to create immersion.
By offering interconnected stories in multiple formats, audiences can hang out in our universe more often. For instance, a true fan might play Unknown 9: Awakening during their free time in the evening and listen to the Unknown 9: Out of Sight podcast while exercising. They could even read the Genesis Trilogy on their commute to work! Â
Taken together, these stories immerse you in different complementary aspects of the narrative universe, giving it depth and a life of its own in your imagination. And then, just like that, you realize that you too Believe in the Unknown.
Reflector’s Unknown 9: Out of Sightpodcast
Written by Jessica Kincaid and released in March 2020, Reflector’s fictional podcast, Unknown 9: Out of Sight,is part of the larger Unknown 9 universe that brings this all-new entertainment franchise to life across multiple platforms, including comic books, novels, a video game, and more. Â
Season 1 of the scripted audio drama follows Blake Elrich (Jorge Cordova), an urban explorer with a haunted past, as he travels the country in an old RV with co-host and producer Lazari (Reyna de Courcy). At every stop along their journey, our duo encounters an inexplicable occurrence. What’s more, they’re beginning to suspect that someone is leading them to each strange case. Events intensify when an enigmatic figure emerges, terrorizing whole communities. Blake and Lazari must now race to undo the damage that’s already been done and prevent a terrifying force from emerging.
All nine episodes of the Out of Sight podcast are available for listeners on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Youtube. Â
What the team behind Out of Sight has to say:
1. How different was it to work on a podcast compared to other media?
Each medium has its own set of challenges and rewards. When thinking of the podcast medium, the most different aspect is really how to embrace the audio format and make the narrative feel like it can only be told through a podcast. We believe the creatives developing the series have delivered on that experience to the point where an adapted version of Out of Sight wouldn’t be anywhere near the same.
2. What was the most exciting part about hearing the episodes coming to life?
Whenever you can give an actual voice to a character who has only existed in text, it’s exciting. Hearing Blake and Lazari come to life, how Jorge and Reyna really owned these characters, it’s really something special.
3. How did you cast the actors?
In addition to using conventional casting channels, our production partners tapped into their wide network of regular collaborators. The rapport that a lot of the performers came into the studio with is part of the magic that you hear as the podcast’s story unfolds.
4. Where does Out of Sight fall within the narrative universe’s overall story?
Without getting into too much detail (spoilers) Out of Sight is firmly rooted in the modern-day events of the Unknown 9 universe. There’s no specific order you need to consume the stories in, so whenever you stumble upon the adventures of Blake and Lazari is the right time to be listening to them. BUT it is important to listen to the series in order, starting at Episode 1.
5. What is the deal with Lazari?
You’ll have to listen to the podcast to find out. All questions will ultimately be answered. Or will they?
6. What can you say about what’s next for the investigative duo?
As storytellers, we don’t want to spoil anything. All we can say is that their RV has been spotted around town, which means they’re likely to return to the airwaves with more tales of the impossible soon!
Landing your next great career opportunity doesn’t have to be an intimidating process–especially if you know what you’re in for. 
Dreaming of a new job in the game development industry? At Reflector, our recruitment process is a time to meet and (hopefully!) click with creative folks who share your passions. Your success as a candidate is a testament to both your skills and how well you’ve connected with people along the way.
Read on to get familiar with our recruitment process—and as a bonus, glean a few industry tips from our Talent and Acquisition department.
Two ways to get started:
This part is simple. You contact us, or we contact you.
1. Apply online
Many team members join Reflector by submitting an online application. If you’ve spotted one of our job postings and know you’d make a great candidate, our Career portal makes the application process easy.
Pro tip: Keep a copy of the description for the job you’re applying for.
2. Reflector outreach
If we think you’d make a good candidate, we’ll reach out! Maximize your chances of being recruited by maintaining an up-to-date LinkedIn profile that accurately describes your work experience.
Even if you’re not looking for an immediate career change, we’d love to answer your questions and hear about your professional goals. Discretion is our golden rule—these conversations will be 100% confidential.
Pro tip: If you’re Reflector-curious but the timing isn’t right, don’t hesitate to say so. A simple “No thanks, maybe in the future” could help secure a position for you when you’re ready to make a move.
Recruitment process steps
Getting hired at Reflector plays out over several steps.
1. Preliminary phone screening
The first step in our hiring process is a 30–60-minute chat with one of our recruiters. We want to hear about your ambitions, motivations, special talents, career highlights, and how you’ve dealt with past challenges.
Pro tip: Prep by reading the job description thoroughly and have some relevant examples of your responsibilities on hand. Get ready to be open and honest about your expectations. We will be, too!
2. Managerial interview and technical test
During this 1–2-hour interview, you meet with your potential future manager, deep-dive into your work experience, and learn about their leadership style. If you’re applying for a technical position, this step will involve an evaluation where you’ll get to show off your skills.
Pro tip: Re-read your CV and brush up on relevant software, programs, and other technical tools. Be sure to prep a few questions for your future manager—they love to talk about their projects…and the games they’re currently playing!
3. One-on-one team interview
A one-on-one, 30–60-minute discussion with a member of the team you’d be working with helps you get a sense of what your day-to-day will be like as well as what life at Reflector is all about.
Whether you get a chance to meet in-person or remotely, we hope you walk away from the experience feeling excited to deliver high-quality work (and have fun!) with this person and the rest of your team.
4. The offer
So, you passed your technical test and interviews with flying colours, and you’re jazzed about everyone you’ve met. Congratulations, you’ve landed a gaming job!
Over a 30-minute call, our recruiters will talk you through all the aspects of your offer, including salary, benefits, vacation time, and job objectives. Now’s the time to ask any and all questions. We want you to sign your offer letter feeling 100% confident in the decision to make Reflector your next career step.
5. Onboarding
It’s official. You’re a Reflectorian! Once you’ve returned your signed offer to us, our coordinators will start working on the logistics of you joining the team. They’ll help you select the best time to announce your arrival and figure out a start date.
At this point, don’t be surprised if you start getting LinkedIn requests from your new co-workers. We’re all thrilled to have you on board.
Game Industry Recruitment FAQs
We caught up with Reflector Talent and Acquisition partner Eric Belair to answer some common questions we get about game development jobs.
How long does the hiring process take at Reflector?
That depends on two main factors: the complexity of the role and the availability of everyone involved. On average, the time from application to offer tends to be four to six weeks.
How can I get hired in the video game industry?
My main recommendation—and this applies to any industry—is to show your commitment! If you’re an artist, never stop expanding your portfolio. If you’re a programmer, work on your GitHub. If you’re an audio artist, where are your soundtracks?
But don’t build a portfolio simply to land a gaming job. Do it because you are passionate about your craft, because you love to hone your talents, because your work represents your most authentic self. Getting hired to make video games is just a side effect of your commitment.
What do video game studios look for when hiring?
Gaming companies in Montreal are looking for candidates committed to their fields. For example, if we’re hiring an artist, we want to see your range. If you’re a programmer, we want to see what you can do, how you’ve worked through bugs.
We also look for Teamwork and Humility–both with capital letters. We focus on collective success…everyone has equal importance, the right to be heard, and a chance to share in the excitement of our shared achievements.
So, think you’ve got what it takes to be a Reflectorian? Check out our current career opportunities. If your dream job isn’t listed, don’t fret—follow us on LinkedIn to stay up to date with our latest openings!
We are thrilled to unveil our new logo, which marks an important milestone in the evolution of our studio. It is with great pride that we present this new visual symbol that embodies our identity, our vision, our commitment to our core values, and our affiliation with the Bandai Namco group.
The process of creating this logo was filled with reflection, inspiration, and creativity. It’s an evolution of the previous one and represents the incorporation of Reflector Entertainment as an integral part of the larger Bandai Namco family.
The original wheel (or Möbius strip) representing the gateway to our slogan, “Jump into our world,” has now become a spiral ring.
The solid and full left part refers to the Reflectorians, a group of passionate individuals with different yet complementary areas of expertise. This part has been thickened compared to the old logo, reflecting the experience acquired over time.
The right part, on the other hand, relates to the transmedia expertise brought by our team of dedicated professionals, which is essential to ensure the successful development of an intellectual property (IP). The spirals are now in color, with a scheme similar to that of Bandai Namco.
“It was important to showcase the studio’s evolution over the past years and reflect the significant milestones achieved since its inception,” explained Pascal Hamelin, Art Director (and Reflectorian since the studio’s launch) and the designer behind the new brand image. “This logo is closely tied to Bandai Namco, highlighting our collaborative work with the group and our shared values.”
Indeed, the four vibrant colors of blue, green, yellow, and pink also represent the diversity that is of paramount importance to Bandai Namco and Reflector. By creating unique and entertaining products and services that connect people and communities, we are working to create a better future for all through entertainment.
This new logo reflects our evolution as a company, as well as our continued commitment to shaping the future of entertainment. It symbolizes our ability to innovate, adapt, and remain creative in a constantly changing world, while upholding the values that define us.
Today, Reflector Entertainment and Bandai Namco Europe announced the opening of another production line at the Montreal-based studio. This solidifies the long-term strategic importance of the studio by entrusting an existing IP to its talented team.
Key departments within the studio have also seen an evolution. Christophe Rossignol, who has worked at Reflector Entertainment since its inception, has been promoted to Creative Director, while Emilie Constantineau is stepping up as Talent and Culture Director.
As the studio takes on this new production line and continues to grow, its leadership team needs to be strengthened to meet this new challenge.
Reflector has opened up two new positions to complement the established leadership team—Chief Technology Officer (CTO) and Executive Producer—roles that will be central to the delivery of the organisation’s business plan.
Several roles such as Level Artist, Tool Programmer, VFX Artist, and Technical Artist are also ready to be filled and will be followed by the opening of additional executive roles including Producer, Creative Director, and Technical Director to start the new production line.
These future colleagues will join a team of more than 140 talented Reflectorians who bring the studio’s vision to life through their passion.
About Reflector Entertainment
Reflector is a new breed of studio that creates multimedia, communal storyworlds in which users can experience each medium as a standalone, while their interlinked natures empower you to craft your own narrative journey. Founded in Montreal in 2016, the studio was acquired by Bandai Namco Europe in 2020. Some of the most acclaimed talent in the industry have joined forces to bring the studio’s ideas to life across multiple platforms, including video games, comic books, podcasts, novels, films, and TV. With a mission to produce next-generation content, the company, plans to unfold innovative projects over the next several years, starting with its first storyworld Unknown 9.
About Bandai Namco Europe S.A.S
Bandai Namco Europe S.A.S. is a leading global publisher and developer of entertainment content for platforms including, but not limited to, all major video game consoles and PC. Bandai Namco Europe is producing intellectual property for a global audience and is building its reputation with franchises such as LITTLE NIGHTMARES™, PARK BEYOND™, and the upcoming UNKNOWN 9™ Awakening – developed by the recently acquired Reflector Entertainment based in Montreal, QC. Bandai Namco Europe serves as the Headquarters of Bandai Namco Holdings Inc. for mainland Europe, which is known for creating and publishing many of the Toy & Entertainment industry’s top franchises, including PAC-MAN™, TAMAGOTCHI™, GUNDAM™, TEKKEN™, DARK SOULS™ and the recently released ELDEN RING™.
Following June’s graduation gala, Reflector unveils a behind-the-scenes documentary diving into the creation of the environmentally-themed video game.
Today, Reflector Entertainment presents a behind-the-scenes look at the production of Lorekheim: Rise of a Fallen World, a video game created by eight students from ISART Digital Montreal’s Class of 2022, as part of their graduation project.
For the third year in a row, Reflector teamed up with ISART Digital—the international graduate school specialising in video game design and development—as part of its annual mentorship program to support the students in delivering their end-of-year graduation projects. In previous years, Reflector staff have acted as a mentors for the games Blossom and Palaka—the latter developed to address the needs of neurodivergent people—an important cause for the students, the studio, and the teaching staff.
This year’s goal was to provide a gaming experience that would raise awareness about the fight to save the environment and prove that video games can be both educational and entertaining. To accomplish this, many Reflectorians from various departments volunteered to assist the group in the production of their game.
“Reflector Entertainment is proud to support the creation of video games through its partnership with ISART Digital School: said Christopher Cimbaro, technical and artistic director at Reflector and mentor to the team. “We are committed to training the next generation of the video game and entertainment industry in developing as well as participating in important societal causes and issues.“
A theme with societal value
Like last year, Reflector decided to challenge the students. The idea of touching on the environmental cause immediately resonated with them as well as the educational team.
“As part of its educational mission, ISART Digital defends ethical values, but also societal values, whether in the choice of themes imposed on certain group projects, or in the context of its daily teaching, said Azad Lusbaronian, director of ISART Digital. We believe that our students will be better professionals if they are enlightened on subjects of collective interest. In this sense, the partnership with Reflector helps fuel our students’ thinking on topics that ultimately affect us all.”
In Lorekheim: Rise of a Fallen World, the player takes on the role of a guardian of nature whose goal is to restore the vital balance of the world of Lorekheim by purifying a corrupted antagonist that is endangering it. As in our reality, the player must responsibly invest the resources he draws from nature or risk corrupting his environment.
“We’re really proud of the work our team has done. It’s a subject that we immediately liked, that affects us every day, and that we don’t fully appreciate” said Joanna Bendaoud, who focused on the art direction aspects in the student group. “We are truly grateful for the guidance and support of Reflector Entertainment in making this important project possible.”
Insights and support from local experts
Reflector enlisted the help of trusted specialists to better equip students with basic environmental knowledge, ensuring that every element included in the game was accurate and true.
“It is an important signal to see these young people, who are part of this industry, take an interest in environmental issues, explained Hugue Asselin. We were able to set up a customized training program, offering specific guidelines that could be useful in their professional life, which is about to begin.”
The AQPERE team was in charge of the follow-up during the production of the game to ensure that the information presented to the players was sound.
Lorekheim: Rise of a Fallen World is available on the itch platform.
