Rigger

A Rigger creates animation and movements primarily for 3D characters. They are responsible for building the skeleton, i.e. rig, that allows the character to move in the game. They closely collaborate with Animators to ensure that the rig is properly set up and that the characters’ movements are realistic and fluid. Additionally, a Rigger must check that the rig works well in the game engine and is optimized for game performance. In addition to creating rigs, a Rigger is often responsible for creating special effects and physics simulations that contribute to the realism of the game.

A Rigger typically needs to understand 3D modeling and animation software well, as well as to have experience in programming and scripting languages. They must also be familiar with the game development process and understand how game engines work. Attention to detail and problem-solving skills are also important for success in this field, as rigging can be a complex and challenging process. A Rigger plays a crucial role in bringing video game characters to life and creating an immersive gaming experience for players.

Tools

Maya

3ds Max

Blender

Unity

Unreal Engine

MotionBuilder

Houdini

ZBrush

Photoshop

COLLABORATION WITH OTHER TEAMS:

The role of a Rigger is crucial for creating realistic and convincing character movements in games. As such, they must closely collaborate with other team members to ensure that their work aligns with the overall vision and goals of the project. Specifically, a Rigger must work with Animators to ensure that the rig works well with animations and that the characters’ movements are smooth and natural. They also collaborate with Artists, Game Designers and Programmers to integrate the rig into the game engine and harmonize it with other elements of the game, such as physics simulation, special effects and sound.

Effective communication and collaboration skills are key to the successful work of a Rigger, as they must be able to clearly convey their ideas and provide guidance to others on how to use the rig to create animations that stay true to the character’s design and personality. Additionally, they must be open to feedback and willing to adjust their work based on the needs and suggestions of other team members. Through close collaboration with other roles, a Rigger ensures that their work contributes to a cohesive and engaging gaming experience.

Skills

If you wish to become a qualified Rigger, these are some of the skills you need to have:

Hard skills

  • 3D modeling and animation:
    • understands creating skeletons, setting controls and deformations for natural character movement.
  • Programming and scripting:
    • writes scripts or develops plugins to automate parts of the process.
  • Knowledge of game engine:
    • optimizes their work to function well with other elements of the game, such as physics and special effects.

Soft skills

  • Attention to detail:
    • is meticulous in their work, pays attention to small details, such as joint placement and deformations.
  • Collaboration and communication:
    • can clearly communicate their ideas and work effectively with others to achieve desired results.
  • Problem-solving:
    • identifies and resolves issues during the rigging process, such as deformation problems or compatibility with the engine.

Seniority

Depending on seniority, the Rigger is expected to be able to master, do and deliver the following:

Junior

  • Has a solid understanding of rigging basics, including joint placement, skinning and deformations, creating simple rigs for characters.
  • Is proficient in using 3D modeling and animation software, understands how to integrate models and animation into the game engine.
  • Communicates effectively, understands guidelines given by seniors and Art Directors, contributes to the overall project’s success.
  • Is a quick learner, adaptable to new technologies, open to feedback and willing to make changes to their work.

Medior

  • Develops custom tools and scripts to automate parts of the rigging process or increase workflow efficiency.
  • Optimizes rigs for performance in the game engine, understands the technical limitations of the engine, and can create rigs that work well with other elements.
  • Provides mentorship and guidance to juniors, sharing knowledge and experience to help others improve their skills.
  • Identifies and solves complex rigging issues creatively, ensuring character design and movement integrity.

Senior

  • Designs advanced rigging setups that surpass basic joint connections and skinning, allowing characters to convincingly interact with the game world.
  • Mentors juniors and mediors, providing guidance, feedback and support to help team members improve their skills.
  • Translates complex rigging concepts and technical limitations to non-technical team members, collaborating with them to solve problems and achieve goals.
  • Understands industry trends and best practices, keeps up with new technologies and techniques, and applies them in their work.
RIGGER // TECH ART //
RIGGER // TECH ART //

Education

For someone interested in a career in 3D art in the gaming industry, an education in digital art, animation, or game design is key. Look for an educational program that is specifically tailored to 3D modeling and animation, because such a program will provide you with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in this field. Courses in 3D modeling, texturing, compositing, animation and digital sculpting using industry-standard software such as Autodesk Maya, Blender or ZBrush are particularly useful. In addition, mastering game engines, such as Unity or Unreal Engine, can be useful in understanding how 3D assets are integrated into the game environment.

In addition to formal education, building a portfolio that showcases your 3D skills is essential to getting a job in the industry. Your portfolio should contain a variety of assets such as character models, environments, props and animations that demonstrate your expertise and creativity. Consider collaborating on projects and seeking internships to gain practical experience and expand your portfolio. Networking with industry professionals through online communities, social networks, or events can also provide valuable opportunities and insight into industry requirements. Be up to date with industry trends and continuously improve your skills to stay competitive in the dynamic world of 3D art.

Resources

Books

  • “The Art of Rigging” – Erica Hornung
  • “Stop Staring: Facial Modeling and Animation Done Right” – Jason Osipa
  • “Maya Python for Games and Film” – Adam Mechtley, Ryan Trowbridge
  • “An Essential Introduction to Maya Character Rigging” – Cheryl Cabrera
  • “Game Character Creation with Blender and Unity” – Chris Totten

Individuals

  • Jason Schleifer (@jasonschleifer) 
  • Kristen Altamirano (@KristenSketch) 
  • Scott Eaton (@scotteaton
  • Paul Neale (@paulneale_) 
  • Henning Sanden (@henningsanden)

How to prepare for the imterview?

News

Shift2Games is now available in English, Macedonian, Albanian and a "universal" language for the region!
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RIGGER // TECH ART //
RIGGER // TECH ART //