Who I am

I'm Neil, a software engineer and visual artist from beautiful Los Angeles, California. Most know me online as PARSE.

What I do

My educational background is in computer science and graphic design. I have experience making tools for businesses and end users, deploying software stacks on-premises and in the cloud, as well as making websites from scratch and using modern design tools.In practice, I've leaned into creative work through game development. I have over a decade of hobby experience in making smaller bite-sized projects solo and with a team, and have recently begun my professional experience by contributing to and leading larger commercial projects.While I understand how generative "AI" tools work, I do my best work without them.

Where I'm at

I'm currently running Animal Workshop, a game dev co-op studio making CARGO SPACE: Delivering Our Galaxies.I also serve as Art Director for Fickle and the Magical Forest, a metroidvania game by Very Very Vulpes, and developer support for Second Base, a visual novel by Dalmond Team.

Where I've been

My most notable role is being a Gameplay Engineer for Roomerang, as part of The Jackbox Party Pack 9 during my internship at Jackbox Games.I've also been privileged to play a very small part in the early development of I Am Your Beast, a covert revenge first-person shooter by Strange Scaffold.

What I've made

What I've earned

Like what you see?

While I may be looking for work, I'm selective about what I pursue to keep my work aligned to my values.If you're an indie studio, consider getting in touch.

© 2025 Neil Manansala. All rights reserved.All trademarks are property of their respective owners in the US and other countries.