Opportunities
Freelance 2D Character Artist & Animator
Heart Horse Games is a small indie studio looking for a freelance animator to collaborate with on the game we are currently developing.
Our Game
A 2D cat-themed creature-collector with mini games. Made in Unity and intended to release on mobile. Core systems are built. We’re now defining the visual identity and character set and require an artist to bring the game to life!
The Vision
We want a game that is cute and cozy, but stands out for its aesthetic. Think “The Last Unicorn” vibes, a bit moody but still positive. “Beautiful” should describe the game.
And “adorable” should describe the cats!
We want animations that are visually satisfying and keep players engaged but your skillset and the way we agree to approach animation given other constraints will impact the direction we take.
Since there is currently no art at all, your character creation and animation will be setting the tone for the entire game. That makes your role pivotal. If we work well together, we will likely come back to you again and again in the future!
The Task
The primary goal for this role will be to create a set of cat breeds (initially 3) and their animations. Mostly animations appropriate for a simple platformer (jump, run etc), as well as some idle animations.
We will need to be able to recolour and add patterns to the cats. How we do this will depend on what approach to animation you want to take but will of course impact the role.
We are open to both traditional frame-by-frame animation or Unity rigs. The challenge is to produce charming animations while still keeping everything simple enough to facilitate future art pipelines.
In addition to the main character art and animation, we have some small NPCs that need to be drawn and animated. These are mostly other little animals (think mice, butterflies etc…). These would only require a few simple frames.
Your Skillset
Ideally you will be able to demonstrate an ability to draw and animate cats or cat-like animals (e.g. foxes) in a style that can be adapted to fit the vision for our game.
You will either be comfortable with traditional frame-by-frame animation and/or using 2D rigging in Unity (Spine or other similar software is also fine).
Animation is absolutely key to this role so we will need to see examples of your work.
Experience with Unity/games is a plus but basic character animation experience is more important.
Pay
This is a freelance position. Pay will be competitive, dependent on skills and experience and the time frame we agree on. Please indicate your rates/expectations when you apply.
To Apply
Send a short cover letter describing your relevant skills/experience.
Please include your pay expectations/rates, your location, and when you would be able to start.
Link/attach your portfolio/examples of your work.
Please also include or point us towards any specific pieces you think are relevant - at minimum we would like to see some examples of animations you have made, and character art of four-legged animals.