Video game FX (effects) artists work in teams to create effects that enhance the sequences and actions of the animation within the game. This may include explosions, power ups, character and gameplay effects, etc. The two main areas of VFX in video games are gameplay and environmental effects.

Gameplay effects enhance the gaming experience, they include character powers, magics, explosion textures, etc. Environmental effects provide realistic visuals, they follow the laws of physics in replicating real-world phenomena and reactions, these include waterfalls, mist, rain, smoke, etc.

Role and Responsibilities

Video Game FX Artists are in charge of creating the visual effects (FX) required of a game. They usually work within the animation or motion graphics team, specializing in adding particles, animation, weather, smoke, fire, explosions, atmospherics, light/energy etc as required by the project.

The responsibilities of a Look Game FX Artist can include:

• Researching real world examples of effects, eg: explosions, floods, etc
• Liaising with design and programming teams on scope of effects
• Working with game designers to plan schedule
• Creating effects templates and animations
• 3D modeling
• Curating the quality of effects
• Collaborating on creating prototypes
• User interface design
• Matching the style and genre of the game
• Maintaining workflow documentation throughout project
• Correcting glitches as picked up by quality assurance testing
• Collaborating on the development of the game
• Keeping within budget
• Working on post processing
• Scripting as required

Game FX Artist Software and Tools:

The software required for Game FX Artist:

Working as an FX Artist requires software skills within a variety of platforms. A basic knowledge of programming software is vital as they need to deal with game programmer teams in articulating their technical needs for each project. A good working knowledge of Microsoft Office suite is required for scheduling and maintenance of project documentation. Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, animation software and special effects tools.

• Houdini
• Maya
• Nuke 
• Adobe Photoshop, After Effects
• 3D Studio Max particles/dynamics systems
• Substance Painter
• Matte Painter
• Max Script
• Python
• HLSL

Skills Required:

FX Artists work in teams, usually within the post-production department. They may be required to work on a range of effects, produce 2D or 3D animation, modeling, etc. The more skills an FX Artist has the more valuable they are to a production

Employers may look for the following skills in a Game FX artist:

• Solid knowledge of the principles of animation
• Experience with animation software
• Proficiency with special effects software
• High-level visual skills
• Strong attention to detail
• Understanding of the fundamentals of art - color theory, lighting, shape, depth of field, composition, movement, etc
• A love of playing games and sensitivity to the user experience
• Ability to adapt to various art styles and genres
• Organizational and analytical ability, problem solving skills
• Good time management skills
• Ability to work under pressure and to tight deadlines
• An understanding of the production process
• Good communication skills
• Ability to take constructive criticism and adapt to changes
  

Average Salary:

The average salary for Game FX artist ranges between  £22,549 and £77,831