Warhorse Studios hiring 3D Animator | AAA Games

Warhorse Studios is a world-class game development studio based in the heart of Prague. Founded by industry veterans and known for the critically acclaimed, multi-million-selling RPG Kingdom Come: Deliverance, we specialize in creating immersive, historically grounded, and technically ambitious open-world experiences. We combine a passion for historical accuracy with cutting-edge technology to create games that challenge the boundaries of the RPG genre.

We are currently seeking a passionate, skilled, and reliable Animator to join our team for an unannounced AAA project. In this role, you will be responsible for bringing our world to life, creating high-quality, realistic humanoid animations using motion capture, as well as crafting expressive keyframe animations for animals and environmental objects.

Position & Compensation Overview: 3D Animator

The Role: Bringing Realism to Life

As an Animator at Warhorse Studios, you are a vital storyteller. Our games rely heavily on “living” worlds where character movement, combat, and environmental interaction must feel grounded and authentic. You will work within a specialized team of animators, designers, and technical artists to ensure that every movement—from a subtle facial twitch in a cutscene to a heavy swing of a longsword in gameplay—is coherent and high-quality.

Key Responsibilities as Animator

• High-Fidelity Animation: Create realistic humanoid animations that align with the studio’s signature grounded style. This includes both gameplay-driven loops and cinematic cutscenes.

• Motion Capture Integration: Take raw MoCap data and refine it into polished, professional-grade performances. You will be responsible for cleaning data, solving skeletal issues, and ensuring the “soul” of the actor’s performance is preserved.

• Keyframe Artistry: Beyond humanoid movement, you will craft bespoke keyframe animations for animals and complex environmental objects where MoCap is not applicable.

• Technical Collaboration: Partner with Technical Artists to troubleshoot rig issues and collaborate with Designers to ensure animations feel responsive and satisfying within the game engine.

• Consistency & Style: Maintain a high level of visual coherence across all assets, ensuring that your work fits seamlessly into the established art direction of the project.

• Task Management: Work within an Agile framework, managing your tasks effectively to meet production milestones while maintaining the highest quality standards.

Requirements & Qualifications

Warhorse Studios is looking for an animator who has a “cinematic eye” and a deep understanding of human and animal biomechanics.

Essential Skills

• Industry Experience: At least 3+ years of professional experience in the gaming industry specifically as an animator.

• MotionBuilder Mastery: Excellent, deep-seated knowledge of Autodesk MotionBuilder. This is our primary tool for MoCap processing and character animation.

• MoCap Expertise: Proven experience with Motion Capture data processing, including retargeting and cleaning.

• Portfolio: A high-quality reel or portfolio showcasing realistic gameplay or cutscene animations. We are specifically looking for work that demonstrates weight, timing, and realistic physical interaction.

• Soft Skills: You must be a team player with strong communication skills and a genuine passion for video games.

• Language: Proficiency in English is required for daily communication within our international team.

Desirable “Bonus” Skills

• Technical Art: Experience with rigging and skinning characters or animals.

• Engine Integration: A solid understanding of how animations are integrated into game engines (e.g., state machines, blend trees).

• AAA Pedigree: Having a shipped AAA project on your resume is a significant advantage.

Our Commitment to Diversity & Culture

Warhorse Studios is an equal opportunity employer. We believe that a diverse team brings a wider range of perspectives, which is essential for creating deep, immersive RPGs. Our studio in Prague is a melting pot of international talent, and we pride ourselves on a culture of transparency and creative freedom.

A Human-First Process: We believe your portfolio speaks louder than an algorithm. We do not use AI to screen or filter candidates. Every application is reviewed manually by our Lead Animators and Production team to ensure we find the right creative fit for our unique studio culture.

What We Offer: Life in Prague

Working at Warhorse Studios isn’t just about making games; it’s about being part of a community. Our office is located in the vibrant Karlín district of Prague, a city known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and high quality of life.

• Exciting Projects: Work on high-profile AAA titles with a global reach and a dedicated fanbase.

• Team Environment: Join a young, ambitious, and friendly team where your voice is heard.

• Health & Wellness: Benefit from Multisport cards, in-office yoga classes, and access to mental health support via Hedepy.

• Office Perks: Start your day right with free breakfast and light snacks provided in the office.

• Standard Benefits: We provide meal vouchers and a competitive benefits package tailored to the Czech market.

Why Warhorse?

If you want to move away from stylized, “floaty” animation and dive into the world of grit, weight, and historical realism, Warhorse Studios is the place for you. We value artists who are reliable, meticulous, and eager to solve the unique challenges that come with large-scale open-world development.

Application Process for Animator

To apply, please submit your resume and a link to your portfolio/demo reel.

Apply via our portal or contact our recruitment team directly.

If you don’t meet every single requirement but have a killer reel and a passion for the RPG genre, we encourage you to apply. We are looking for talent and potential above all else.