Animation roles explained

3D Animator

A 3D Animator takes characters, objects, and environments and creates realistic or stylized movements that enhance the game’s storytelling and gameplay experience.

In 3D games, animation is responsible for everything from a character’s combat moves to the way they interact with the environment. As a 3D Animator, you will use software like Maya, Blender, or 3ds Max to rig models and create dynamic animations that feel fluid and believable.

You’ll work closely with designers, riggers, and programmers to ensure that animations match the game’s design, style, and technical requirements. As well as mastering animation software, you’ll need to understand the fundamental principles of movement, timing, and physics to create animations that respond realistically to player input.

Many 3D Animators start by completing a degree in animation, game design, or a related field, but a strong portfolio is key to breaking into the industry. Your portfolio should showcase your best work, including a range of characters, movements, and even some complex sequences like combat or interaction animations.

For this job role, you should be passionate about movement, have great attention to detail, and enjoy bringing digital characters to life. A strong sense of timing and rhythm is important, as is an understanding of how characters fit into the overall game world.

Just like other roles in the game industry, competition is high, so make sure your portfolio stands out by demonstrating your versatility across different animation styles and techniques.

You’ll love this role if you’re into
  • Drawing
  • Telling stories
  • Being organised

In your own time, at your own pace

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