Cassia Dominguez
Cassia Dominguez is a Lead User Interface Designer with over sixteen years of experience shaping player experiences across the video game industry. Having worked with top-tier studios including LucasArts and EA, she specializes in creating interfaces that blend art and functionality seamlessly. From modular UI systems in Unreal Engine to intuitive HUDs and interactive prompts, Cassia ensures that players remain fully immersed, never hindered by confusing or clunky interfaces. Her work on titles like Clockwork Revolution, Sensorium VR, and Fractured Lands demonstrates her ability to enhance usability, streamline workflows, and elevate the overall gaming experience.
Cassia’s journey began in art and graphic design, which provided a strong foundation for her specialization in UX and UI. Recognizing that the gaming industry evolves rapidly, she pursued advanced certifications tied to Epic Games and Unreal Engine to stay at the forefront of technological innovation. Her philosophy centers on designing interfaces that are not just functional, but integral to storytelling—guiding players effortlessly through every narrative twist and gameplay challenge while maintaining aesthetic and emotional cohesion.
Beyond her project work, Cassia is an active participant in the broader game development community, attending GDC events, contributing to professional organizations, and exploring emerging trends such as AI-assisted design. Her award-winning contributions, including recognition for the Lord of the Rings interface transition from PC to console, highlight her commitment to thoughtful, player-centered design. Cassia continues to seek opportunities at studios that value artistry, accessibility, and innovation, aiming to craft interfaces that allow players to lose themselves fully in the worlds she helps create.
• Design to Code: Using AI to Build Faster
• Midjourney: Quick Start
• Structured Vibe Coding with AI Coding Agents
• Introduction to Web Design and Development
• Learning Art Direction
• What Is Generative AI?
• Leading and Managing Successful UX Teams
• User Interface in Game Design
• Unreal Engine Fundamentals
• Introduction to Game Design
• Preventing Workplace Harassment - Fundamentals
• Introduction to User Experience Design
• AR for Mobile Developers
• Master AR/VR with Unreal Engine
• Designing VR Experiences with Adobe Animate
• California College of the Arts - BFA
• Best Game UI Artist
• Best Game Brochure
• International Game Development Association
• Communication Arts
• Women in Tech Network
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a combination of a strong creative foundation and a commitment to continuous learning. While my journey began in art school and graphic design, I quickly recognized that the gaming industry demands constant evolution. To stay at the forefront, I pursued UX and UI certifications, including advanced coursework connected to Epic Games and Unreal Engine.
For me, staying relevant in this field means staying curious. Technology evolves rapidly, and great game design goes beyond aesthetics—it’s about creating experiences that feel intuitive, engaging, and meaningful for players.
By blending creativity with a deep understanding of player experience, I’ve been able to adapt, grow, and consistently contribute designs that resonate in an ever-changing industry.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the gaming industry is to first identify your passion and pursue it boldly. Reach out to professionals in the field, seek guidance, and get involved in the specific area of gaming that excites you most—sometimes being a generalist can make it harder to stand out.
Ignore the naysayers. There are countless resources, workshops, and communities ready to support you. Even if you’re not an engineer, if you have a game idea—whether involving AI or other technologies—these tools can help guide you. The key is to take that leap of faith and go after what you truly want.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
As a woman in a still male-dominated industry, I’m acutely aware of the challenges that exist—but I’m equally inspired by the opportunities. I believe that specialization is crucial, especially for young professionals entering gaming. Identifying your niche early and committing to excellence within it can be truly transformative.
Equally important is visibility. Representation matters, and sharing our stories helps pave the way for others. By highlighting diverse voices and perspectives, we not only shape the future of gaming but also create a more inclusive and innovative industry for everyone.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide me in both my work and personal life are perseverance, drive, and a commitment to giving back. Early in my career, I led game-related workshops for children in Los Angeles, and today I continue to mentor students and review portfolios, often through LinkedIn.
Beyond the gaming industry, I dedicate time to animal-focused volunteer work, which helps me stay grounded and connected to causes larger than myself. For me, balancing professional growth with meaningful contributions to others is what gives my work and life purpose.