Video game artist
Overview
A video game artist is a professional who specializes in creating art for video games. They are responsible for all visual aspects of a video game, including characters, scenery, objects, vehicles, surface textures, clothing, props, and even user interface components. They work closely with other members of the game development team, such as programmers and audio engineers, to bring the game to life.
History
The role of the video game artist has evolved significantly since the early days of video games. In the 1970s and 1980s, video game art was often created by the game's programmers due to the technical limitations of the hardware. As technology advanced and video games became more complex, the need for specialized artists became apparent. Today, video game artists are an integral part of any game development team.
Types of Video Game Artists
There are several different types of video game artists, each with their own set of responsibilities and areas of expertise.
Concept Artists
Concept artists are responsible for creating the initial designs for all visual elements in a game. They work closely with the game designers to ensure that their designs fit within the game's overall vision and theme.
3D Modelers
3D modelers take the concept art and turn it into a 3D model that can be used in the game. They use specialized software to create these models, which are then textured and animated by other artists.
Texture Artists
Texture artists create the textures that are applied to the 3D models. These textures give the models color and detail, making them look more realistic.
Animators
Animators bring the 3D models to life by creating a series of frames that simulate movement. They work closely with the game's programmers to ensure that the animations work correctly within the game engine.
User Interface Artists
User interface artists design the menus, buttons, and other interface elements that the player interacts with. They need to ensure that these elements are intuitive and easy to use, while also fitting within the game's overall aesthetic.
Education and Skills
Most video game artists have a bachelor's degree in art, graphic design, or a related field. However, the most important thing for a video game artist is their portfolio, which should showcase their ability to create high-quality art in a variety of styles and mediums.
In addition to their artistic skills, video game artists also need to have a good understanding of the technical aspects of game development. This includes knowledge of 3D modeling software, animation tools, and game engines. They also need to be able to work well in a team, as they will often be collaborating with other artists and developers.
Career Path
The career path for a video game artist can vary greatly depending on their skills and interests. Some artists may choose to specialize in one area, such as concept art or animation, while others may choose to become generalists, working on all aspects of the game's art.
Many video game artists start their careers as interns or junior artists at a game development studio. As they gain experience and improve their skills, they can move up to more senior roles, such as lead artist or art director.