The unexpected path that led to becoming a game artist
I majored in oil painting in university. After experimenting with different spatial perspectives, I became fascinated with 3D art as a medium and ended up studying 3D CG at a vocational school after graduating. I wanted to take on a job designing backgrounds, where I could make the most of my skills in sketching, oil painting, and 3D CG. My search in the gaming and film industry led me to SEGA.
SEGA was a place I'd always associated with producing top-notch 3D CG, such as their work on "Sonic" and the "Like a Dragon" series. That was further emphasized in my interview with them; the people who interviewed me reinforced how much they appreciated the creative process and their passion for creating. Despite my initial fears about not having much experience with video games, I had faith I'd be able to work well here because we shared the same values.
After joining SEGA, I worked on backgrounds for the "Like a Dragon" series. The café in "Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth" was the first background I'd designed all on my own. In the "Like a Dragon" series, the games feature both fictional businesses and ones designed as crossovers with real-world stores; what I designed was one of the fictional restaurants. At first, I was only given the name Café Soramame. One of the game designers provided me with reference images, plot details, and information on the characters. After this, I had to rely on my imagination to design the cafe from scratch.
Seeing the reaction of fans firsthand is a huge motivator
I would gather references by visiting cafes, look for inspiration in the characters' dialogue, and ask my senior colleagues for their feedback. The ideas that received a favorable reaction I'd turn into designs that would then be incorporated into the game. In order to create a coffee shop vibe, I gave the cafe some coffee roasters and other decor. I also added a significant but suspicious-looking plant and finished off the design with a touch of greenery.
Through my work on this project, I began to understand the importance of ensuring everything fit together, from making sure characters had an open path to move along to the lighting used to highlight different characters and the background. I was absolutely awestruck when the game was finally completed and I got to see the story unfold and the characters interact with the location I'd designed.
The most exciting part of my job is witnessing my designs travel across the world via the game. After a game releases, it's a huge motivation boost to see how fans are reacting to it on online videos, blog posts, and other platforms.
Creating innovative creations unique to gaming and pushing the boundaries of entertainment
I aspire to be an artist who is constantly elevating the quality of their work and creating innovative creations that can only exist in the world of gaming. I hope to be someone who can push the boundaries of gaming and entertainment.
SEGA has a workplace culture that encourages innovative ideas, even if they take time to implement. There are many times where even casual suggestions from our creative team members have led to new content being added to a game. In my view, it's the ideal environment for a creator because the company genuinely values your input and empowers you to create exceptionally innovative content. Before joining the company, I had concerns because I'd only dabbled in 3D CG. However, I was relieved to discover that we had senior team members on Like a Dragon that weren't avid gamers, but instead had extensive knowledge in film. There are many opportunities to learn, so it's perfectly fine if you lack certain skills initially. Just come equipped with your own creative vision and artistic touch.
*This interview was conducted during the second year of employment.
10:30 AM Arrive at the office and report progress on my tasks at the morning meeting.
11:00 AM Begin on my background designs.
12:30 PM Break for lunch. I look forward to seeing our cafeteria's special event dishes.
1:30 PM Join our regular team meeting. Each person reports their progress.
2:30 PM Resume work on background designs. I may ask my senior colleagues for advice.
8:00 PM Work day ends. Sometimes I grab dinner with my colleagues if work wraps up early.
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