Remote Senior 3D Animation Artist – Thatgamecompany

Thatgamecompany, the visionary studio behind critically acclaimed titles like Journey, flOw, and Flower, is seeking a highly skilled Senior 3D Cinematic 3D Animation Artist. This role is a unique opportunity to contribute to the evolving world of Sky: Children of the Light, a game celebrated for its emotional depth and breathtaking visual storytelling.

As a Cinematic Animation Artist, you will bridge the gap between narrative vision and technical execution. Reporting to the Art team and collaborating closely with Design, you will be responsible for crafting the “soul” of the game—the cutscenes and cinematic moments that define the player’s emotional journey.

Job Overview: Cinematic 3D Animation Artist

Role Mission & Impact

In this role, you aren’t just moving characters; you are directing experiences. You will assist in designing, generating, and implementing in-game cutscenes using both proprietary and industry-standard toolsets. Your work involves mastering the game engine to create complex timelines that weave together cameras, character animations, environmental effects, and in-world mechanics.

Beyond the technicalities, you will contribute to the broader narrative development. Whether it’s 3D keyframe animation for a pivotal character moment or storyboarding a new sequence, your goal is to deliver clear, emotionally resonant content that aligns with the unique aesthetic of thatgamecompany.

Detailed Responsibilities

1. Narrative & Cinematic Creation

Your primary focus is the development of emotionally engaging cutscenes. This includes everything from the initial “blue-sky” ideation to the final polish in-engine. You will be tasked with:

• Designing and implementing cinematic sequences that feel seamless within the gameplay experience.
• Modifying and revising existing cinematics based on creative feedback or technical requirements.
• Ensuring that every camera move and character gesture reinforces the intended emotional beat of the story.

2. Storyboarding & Visual Development

Before moving into 3D, you will use your skills in visual storytelling to map out the narrative.

• Translating script or design notes into clear thumbnails and storyboards.
• Contributing to the overall narrative design and world-building of Sky: Children of the Light.

3. 3D Keyframe Animation

The quality of movement is paramount at TGC. You will provide:

• High-end 3D keyframe animation for characters, props, and environment elements.
• Rigorous testing to ensure animations hold up across various gameplay conditions.
• Technical implementation and debugging of assets within the game engine.

4. Interdisciplinary Coordination

Cinematics sit at the intersection of Art, Code, and Design. You will:

• Communicate daily with different departments to ensure technical feasibility.
• Deliver high-quality work under tight, dynamic production deadlines.

Candidate Requirements

The “Must-Haves”

To be successful in this role, you need a blend of artistic intuition and technical discipline:

• Experience: 5+ years of professional experience in cinematic production for games, or high-level animation for film, TV, or commercials.
• Artistic Foundation: Deep knowledge of cinematography, editing, pictorial composition, and the core principles of visual storytelling.
• Technical Skill: Solid technical proficiency with 3D game engines and Autodesk Maya.
• Communication: The ability to communicate narrative ideas quickly via thumbnails or animatics.
• Adaptability: A strong willingness to learn new proprietary software and adapt to evolving workflows.

The “Nice-to-Haves”

• Domain Knowledge: A personal passion for and experience with Sky: Children of the Light.
• Generalist Skills: Proficiency in rigging, modeling, or digital painting.
• Technical Depth: Knowledge of gameplay engineering or languages like C++, C#, and C.

Comprehensive Benefits & Perks

Thatgamecompany is committed to the holistic well-being of its employees. From day one, you are eligible for a robust package designed to support your life both inside and outside of work.

• Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and dependents. Benefits start on your first day.
• Financial Security: 401(k) program with company match and a discretionary annual bonus.
• Work-Life Balance: Generous Paid Time Off (PTO), standard holidays, and a dedicated two-week Winter Break.
• Remote Support: Pre-tax stipends for both general wellness and work-from-home expenses.
• Mental Health: Access to Headspace memberships and Employee Assistance Programs (EAP).
• Inclusivity: Participation in “Grow Together” diversity initiatives and support for personal professional development.
• Family & Pets: Compassionate leave for family care and even pet insurance for your furry companions.

How to Apply

If you are an animator who believes that games can be a force for emotional good, we want to see your portfolio. Please ensure your reel highlights your 3D keyframe animation and your ability to direct compelling cinematic sequences.

Note: Applicants must currently reside in and be authorized to work in the U.S. or Canada. Thatgamecompany cannot provide visa sponsorship for this specific position at this time.