About
I'm Sean, a senior software engineer currently based at SEGA HARDlight in Royal Leamington Spa.
With 17+ years of experience (7+ years professionally), programming isn't just a livelihood, it's a passion.
Games have always been a huge part of my life, both as a player and developer. I love the challenge of turning ideas into reality and the collaboration that drives technology forward.
Skills
Here are some of the technologies I've worked with over the years.
Languages
Frameworks
Tools
Game Engines
Projects
Explore my full professional journey below, showcasing my growth from past roles to my current position.
Sep 2025–Present
Unannounced project
I started work on an unannounced project.
Tech
Oct 2023
Senior Software Engineer
As recognition for my key contributions in driving projects, advancing core technology, and mentoring team members across multiple Sonic Mobile projects, I was promoted to Senior Software Engineer.
Apr 2022–Sep 2025
Sonic Forces
Using my newly acquired server skills, gained during my time on ChuChu Rocket! Universe and Sonic Racing, I transitioned to Sonic Forces as the main server engineer.
My role involves keeping the server technology up to date, as well as developing new features and live operations functionality.
Using server tools like K9s and OpenSearch, I proactively monitor performance, debug issues, and optimize the production environment to ensure stability and efficiency.
Furthermore, I guide experienced staff with client and server-related tasks.
Tech
Dec 2021–Dec 2023
Sonic Dream Team
I enhanced and extended the Node Graph functionality during personal development time and project downtime to support Sonic Dream Team's development.
I collaborated directly with the main project team, enabling me to quickly diagnose issues and implement requested features.
I happily received requests via Microsoft Teams, email, and in person, and backlogged all tasks in Helix Plan.
Whenever I completed a request, I promptly informed the team of the new capabilities.
Tech
Nov 2021–Apr 2022
Sonic Dash+
I returned to Sonic Dash once again, this time to port the game from a freemium title to Apple Arcade.
I worked closely with the designer to remove pay-to-play elements, redesigning the game to ensure long-term fun and engagement.
Moreover, I onboarded and mentored a new junior developer, providing guidance on architecture, feature development, and general queries.
Tech
Nov 2021–Nov 2021
Sonic Racing
Using my newfound server skills, I shifted onto Sonic Racing, another Apple Arcade-exclusive title, to again upgrade the internal server technology.
Tech
Sep 2021–Nov 2021
ChuChu Rocket! Universe Again
For a short period, I transitioned back to the Apple Arcade-exclusive title ChuChu Rocket! Universe to upgrade the internal server technology and Unity version.
This was my first hands-on experience with the internal server stack and provided a strong foundation for future projects.
Tech
Feb 2021–Apr 2021
Node Graph
Following an unexpected shift in Google's focus, which led to the closure of Stadia-related studios and a reduced investment in the platform, the HUMANKIND Stadia port was temporarily canceled.
During this downtime, I developed a generic node-based editor, primarily for the internal finite-state machine technology.
After resuming work on HUMANKIND, I continued refining the editor technology, using my training and project downtime to enhance its capabilities.
Tech
Jun 2020–Nov 2021
HUMANKIND Stadia Port
To support Amplitude with the release of HUMANKIND, I joined HARDlight's team working on the Stadia port.
Collaborating with a new team and another studio provided valuable insight into different workflows, highlighting effective and ineffective practices.
Initially, I focused on implementing Stadia’s State Share functionality, allowing players to share gameplay moments. After completing this, I shifted my focus to meeting Stadia's technical requirements and improving general Stadia functionality.
Tech
Apr 2020
Experienced Software Engineer
Recognizing my contributions, I was promoted to Experienced Software Engineer.
Sep 2019–Jun 2020
Sonic Dash (Again)
After launching ChuChu Rocket! Universe, I returned to working on Sonic Dash.
With the first Sonic film releasing in February 2020, I focused on improving the game and adding film-themed content.
I enhanced the track generation and boss logic to support new enemies from the film, including Drones and Dr. Robotnik's Eggpod boss.
Additionally, I developed a film-themed San Francisco track as part of the film tie-in.
Tech
Dec 2019
Employee of the year
I was honoured to receive the Employee of the Year award at the Christmas party.
Feb 2019–Sep 2019
ChuChu Rocket! Universe
I joined the Apple Arcade-exclusive title ChuChu Rocket! Universe shortly after the initial prototyping stage and remember feeling particularly nervous about working on the project.
I implemented a significant portion of the gameplay elements, empowering designers to create new and exciting levels.
Additionally, I collaborated directly with the lead server engineer to develop the client-side lobby and multiplayer logic.
Tech
Aug 2018–Feb 2019
Sonic Dash
Sonic Dash, an endless runner first released in 2013, was the first project I worked on.
My primary focus was reducing technical debt and implementing new features to enhance the game’s longevity.
Tech
Aug 2018
Junior Software Engineer
I began my industry career as a Junior Software Engineer at SEGA HARDlight in Royal Leamington Spa.
Relocating 2½ hours away was a significant challenge, but I was eager to apply my skills and grow in a professional environment.
Sep 2013–Jun 2018
Sheffield Hallam University
I achieved a First-Class Master's of Computing degree.
Tech
Contact
