Wednesday, September 26, 2007

Do you have what it takes to be a Game Animator?

Do you have what it takes to be a Game Animator?

Gaming is a big industry, and game animation is one of the most popular fields that attract high salaries from companies. Aside from the prestige of being able to work for the likes of Sierra, EA Games, and Activision, there is the fact that the creation of video games and computer games is such a fun thing to be involved in.

There are different types of game animation and many different systems used in the creation of games, but the skill sets required for any of these are the same. These skills include storytelling and technical animation.

Video game animators need to understand the techniques of storytelling to be able to come up with the storyboards that start off the animation process. These techniques, such as how a character reacts in a given situation, what motivates the character to action, how he operates in his physical world, all serve to make the story, and the game, a credible and cohesive piece.

The technical artistry of game animation, on the other hand, is reflected in the various computer graphic requirements that involve hand drawing, 2d and 3d compositions, and stop-motion animation, that will need some years of training to perfect. Aside from being able to draw well, one would need to know the laws of physics and human motion, as well as a bit of psychology. Essential aspects of 3d animation include creating the character's body type and physical poses, adding facial expressions to show emotions, creating gaming loops, and lighting the scenes the character takes part in.

The technical and creative skills no doubt make the learning curve a bit steep for game animation, but those with some good artistic and storytelling abilities would find this a very good and stable career prospect.

If you think you have the innate skills required, and would like to hone these to become a good game animator, then consider the convenience of online programs that offer a Bachelor’s degree in Animation. Westwood College has such a program. Find out more by visiting http://www.elearningyellowpages.com/OnlineDegrees/Gaming-226.html


Tag: online game animation degree

No comments: