Principal Concept Artist (Character) - VALORANT

Riot Games•Los Angeles, CA

About The Position

As a Principal Character Concept Artist on the VALORANT team, you’ll be responsible for designing characters that fit the thematics and tone of the game, while helping to define a unique interpretation of the IP that fits within our genre and gameplay needs. You’ll partner with the Art Director and character art leaders as you work across disciplines to shape the visual identity of new characters. You will also collaborate closely with designers, writers, and producers to bring these characters to life through strong, story-driven design.

Requirements

10+ years of experience in the video game industry as a Character Concept Artist
5+ years of experience working with Photoshop or other relevant painting/design tools
Mastery of human and animal anatomy, color theory, value, and silhouette.
A portfolio demonstrating not just high-quality stylized artwork, but the ability to solve complex design challenges (e.g., functional clothing, mechanical components, or unique silhouettes).
Ability to transform creative briefs into a range of initial ideas and iteratively strengthen designs throughout the full development lifecycle.
Experience mentoring other artists and working cross-functionally with 3D, Animation, and Narrative teams to bring a character from concept to ship.
Exceptional skill in synthesizing contemporary styles and global trends into unique IP-specific aesthetics to drive character identity and visual storytelling.

Nice To Haves

Shipped a AAA title as a Character Concept Artist
Experience working as a Character Concept Artist on an FPS title
Ability to create 3D proxies/blockouts or paint over 3D models as part of your visual design process.
Craft expertise, a collaborative spirit, and decision-making that prioritizes the delight of players.
Past studies, experience, and your personal relationship with games.
Player empathy and care about players' experiences.

Responsibilities

Build, sketch, ideate, and iterate new character concepts in collaboration with other developers
Craft detailed concept art and orthographics for 3D artists and animators to implement into working game assets
A visual storyteller, able to design visual reads and details that breathe life into a character and communicate the core fantasy and persona in original ways that successfully push the boundaries of the VALORANT IP
Creatively solve problems and figure out efficient solutions on executing the look and feel of the character
Hold the Creative Vision and drive other discipline to build characters that are cohesive in their visuals, narrative, and gameplay
Take your skillful knowledge of story tropes, archetypes, and narrative devices of all kinds to help improve the designs that go into our worlds.
Bring your deep understanding of human and animal anatomy and know how to stretch the limits while still maintaining a consistent art direction.
Mentor and support concept artists on your team through your craft