News involving the games developed in Canada, and the people who make them. Indie Games, AAA Games, and in between featured and reported on.
We have a few job postings up on the site, so make sure to check them out!
The new studio founded by ex-BioWare devs Humanoid Origin is looking to fill multiple roles.
As a friendly reminder, we have lots of job postings on the site right now. Check them out below!
Canuck Play is looking for (Details here):
Full-Time Senior Unity Game Developer:
Full-Time Unity Game Developer:
Full-Time Character Technical Animator:
Full-Time 3D Modeller (static objects):
Sleeping Giant Interactive is looking for (Details here):
(Character Animator) Rigger
Alpha Channel is looking for:
The new studio founded by ex-BioWare devs Humanoid Origin is looking to fill multiple roles.
In case you haven’t noticed, we have a lot of job postings on the site! You can check them out below.
Pixelmatic is looking for the following. Applicants can apply directly on the website.
Stich Media is looking for the following. Successful applicants should email their resume and a link including relevant work to careers@stitch.media. You can also click this link for a survey.
Technical Artist
Unity Developer
Clipwire Games is looking for the following. Applicants can click the links below to go straight to Indeed.
Certain Affinity is looking for the following. Applicants can apply through the links below.
Canuck Play is looking for the following. Applicants can apply through the links below and emailing jobs@canuckplay.com. All positions are on-site in our Peterborough office.
The new studio founded by ex-BioWare devs Humanoid Origin is looking to fill multiple roles.
Toronto developer 13AM Games is looking for a couple of artists to join the team for their upcoming game, Dawn of the Monsters. This is the indie team behind Runbow, and Double Cross and you can find all the details, including how to apply, below.
Please send the following to takashi@13amgames.com with the subject line of “The position you are applying for - Your Name” (Eg. 2D Puppet Animator - Jane Smith)
Your up-to-date resume (PDF preferred)
A cover letter
A link to your online portfolio or previous work
We appreciate all applications, but only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
10 month full time contract, in office
Start Date: September 30th, 2019
We are looking to contract a 2D Environmental Artist to produce environment concept art and game ready assets for a video game. The ideal candidate will be able to follow direction from the art director and execute on a established style to create concept art for cityscapes and other environments, and execute the approved concepts using digital painting, basic 3D modelling, texturing and normal mapping.
Working as part of Art Team, reporting to the Art Director
Producing concept art for various environments as well as other props, such as vehicles, structures and others.
Creating basic 3D assets
Creating normal maps
Creating backdrops/skyboxes
Executing deliverables under deadlines
Digital online portfolio of art
3+ years of artistic experience
Experience with producing digital environmental concept art
Skills in cityscapes, building, and prop design
Some experience with 3D modelling
Good communication skills and ability to work well as part of a team
Ability to work and execute pieces on an established art style
Ability to take feedback and iterate quickly
Vehicle design
Basic knowledge of Unity game engine
Previous experience in the games industry
10 month full time contract, in office
Start Date: September 30th, 2019
We’re looking for a 2D Puppet Animator to join our team to animate characters for a video game. The ideal candidate will be able to take a designed character, render it, rig it, and animate it according to an assigned animation list. There is also the potential for this position to include character design and/or VFX depending on skills and/or previous experience.
Working as part of Art Team, reporting to the Art Director
Rigging and animating 2D characters in Spine for implementation in Unity
Rendering and creating normal maps for characters
Creating VFX for characters (skill-dependent)
Executing deliverables under deadlines
Digital online portfolio of art
3+ years of artistic experience
Experience with 2D rigging
Experience with 2D puppet animation
Good communication skills and ability to work well as part of a team
Ability to take feedback and iterate quickly
Basic knowledge of Unity game engine an asset, but not a requirement
Experience with Spine
Creating VFX (particle systems or hand animated)
Character/Creature design
Basic knowledge of Unity game engine
Previous experience in the games industry
Is "Unreal" your preferred game engine and a description of your coding skills? Then Joydrop is looking to hire you! Join a dynamic team of game development professionals working on the latest technologies.
Job Responsibilities
Write, modify, integrate, and test high quality code using Unreal Engine
Maintain existing computer programs by making modifications as required
Identify and communicate about technical problems, processes and solutions
Work with QA to ensure smooth, bug free releases
Deliver quality products through the use of agile methodologies and test-driven development
Required Skills and Experience
An almost obnoxious attention to detail for proper coding structures and conventions
Experience with Unreal Engine, either at a previous job or demonstrating it through personal work
Proficiency in C++, C#, Javascript and Node.js
Experience with Typescript and Visual Studio are a bonus
Willingness to learn new languages and technologies
Excellent verbal and written communication skills
Other Requirements
Cover letter
Up-to-date resume
A link to a portfolio of your coding work (website, blog, github account, etc.) containing source code and executables
Upon application, you will be contacted to write a short programming test before your interview
Compensation
• Based on experience
About Joydrop/Mikutech
Joydrop/Mikutech is a full-service agency specializing in video game development and production. Under the branding of Joydrop, we craft experiences for the consumer on Nintendo Switch, Sony PlayStation, Microsoft Xbox One, mobile, and PC. Mikutech is our brand for serious gaming solutions involving medical and commercial training using augmented and virtual reality. Both brands were established by Mark Mikulec, a veteran game developer on titles like Warframe and Bioshock, an architect of 3D graphics engines, who has been at the forefront of VR/AR long before its recent popularity.
Working at Joydrop/Mikutech means working elbow to elbow with respected industry professionals and up-and-comers in code, art, and design. It also means you’ll not only be given the chance to show off your expertise and finesse, but learn alongside similarly ambitious people.
Mikutechis located in London, Ontario, a city with a large game developer community and most of the amenities of much larger -- much more crowded! -- urban centers.
The job’s requirements may seem daunting, but if you’re fresh out of school, you’re in luck –we love new grads!
Academic experience (via group projects) can count just as much as industry experience.
For further information about Mikutech visit www.mikutech.com or twitter@MikutechTips. Apply to jobs@mikutech.com and mention this job posting in the subject. For more information about Joydrop Ltd, visit joydrop.co.
We got a lot of postings for jobs on the site right now, here is one for Frolic Labs.
Frolic Labs is looking for a part-time or freelance Community Manager / Social media promoter to join our team. The Community Manager's primary goals are to build up interest in our game, share development progress and create social media buzz.
Responsibilities
Assist in creating a social media marketing campaign to build up presence
Write and Generate PR content based on in-game media.
Find creative ideas to engage the community and generate interest
Manage the company Discord server and grow the community
Requirements
Strong, positive personality with a highly independent work ethic.
Active knowledge of Twitter, Discord, Reddit and game related communities.
At least some experience in video game community relations
Writing and content creation abilities
Experience with creating and following content schedules
This a part-time remote position in Toronto. Please apply to jobs@froliclabs.com with resume and profile links.
We have a bunch of jobs listed on the site right now - you can check them out here. Below is specifically the posting for a Video Game Business Development Specialist.
Like it when people are playing games with you? Read on! We are looking for eager, enthusiastic, and engaged individuals to continue our non-hostile take-over of the hearts and minds of the videogame industry! The Video Game Business Developer must always be on the prowl for new clientele -ready to make deals with publishers for Nintendo, Sony, and Microsoft, and bring unique and exciting projects to Joydrop, whether it be for the Switch the PlayStation (PSVR too), Xbox One, or even augmented reality for the HoloLens. The clientele you’ll befriend will be lovers of all types of video games, just like you!
Must Haves
Minimum 6 months of direct sales experience such as door-to-door sales or cold- calling in direct phone sales
Documented ability and experience in closing sales on items like insurance, vacuums, subscriptions, software, or other hard-to-sell products
A high-energy love of dealing with people; naturally open, friendly, and congenial
Communication skills, oral, verbal, and written (bonus points for a love of using your public speaking abilities)
A fondness for talking on the phone
Ability to multi-task and excel in a fast-paced environment, with a drive to get stuff done!
Familiarity with Microsoft Word and Excel or the Google Suite
Intensely and almost rudely passionate about games
Partiality to traveling
Love of video games
Nice to Have
• Game industry experience Don’t have any? Not a problem! We can teach anyone as long as they have passion for the industry. Convince us to hire you with a cover letter about your gaming passion and how:
your favourite books include The Way of the Wolf and Blood, Sweat and Pixels
your favourite YouTube documentary is “The Story of Tetris” by the Gaming Historian
industry conferences excite you to no end
you’re glued to live streams of E3, IGN, or console manufacturers for big announcements
you're curious about the experience of starting a game company, but don't have the connections, funding, and/or skills to make games yourself
Own 2+game consoles and play games whenever you get the chance
High tolerance for alcohol and bad golfers
Responsibilities
Follow up with existing leads primarily over the phone and /or email
Develop new relationships with clientele interested in creating games
Write sales proposals and project overviews
Deliver sales presentations and close new work
Represent Mikutech and Joydrop at industry conferences in California, Quebec, Germany, and other locations around the world
Required for Application
Customized cover letter
Sales-oriented resume
References
Willing to live in or commute to London, Ontario
Compensation & Hours
Full-time or part-time position
Commission + salary, based on experience
About Joydrop/Mikutech
Joydrop/Mikutech is a full-service agency specializing in video game development and production. Under the branding of Joydrop, we craft experiences for the consumer on Nintendo Switch, Sony PlayStation, Microsoft Xbox One, mobile, and PC. Mikutech is our brand for serious gaming solutions involving medical and commercial training using augmented and virtual reality. Both brands were established by Mark Mikulec, a veteran game developer on titles like Warframe and Bioshock, an architect of 3D graphics engines, who has been at the forefront of VR/AR long before its recent popularity.
Working at Joydrop/Mikutech means working elbow to elbow with respected industry professionals and up-and-comers in code, art, and design. It also means you’ll not only be given the chance to show off your expertise and finesse, but learn alongside similarly ambitious people.
Mikutechis located in London, Ontario, a city with a large game developer community and most of the amenities of much larger -- much more crowded! -- urban centers.
The job’s requirements may seem daunting, but if you’re fresh out of school, you’re in luck –we love new grads!
Academic experience (via group projects) can count just as much as industry experience.
For further information about Mikutech visit www.mikutech.com or twitter@MikutechTips. Apply to jobs@mikutech.com and mention this job posting in the subject. For more information about Joydrop Ltd, visit joydrop.co.
Mikutech is looking for a few roles (the rest you can check out right here) - but below is the UI/UX Designer role. Apply to jobs@mikutech.com and mention this job posting in the subject. Goodluck!
Good design is obvious. Great design is invisible.
Do you see life as a great app that could be improved with the right icons, buttons and flow?
Do you have a yearning for fantastic kerning?
In your opinion, if any old picture is worth a thousand words, should the perfectly created image translate to one single word?
If you've answered yes to any of these questions, then read on!
Desired Skills & Traits
Ability to understand applications from the designers perspective as well as the users.
Superior knowledge and long-time experience with the digital design software tools of your choice.
Ability to adapt to your vision to any technology platform, from web and mobile, to game consoles and desktop, to virtual and augmented realities.
Exemplary communication skills (preferably not flag semaphore).
Proficiency in design fundamentals like typography, color theory, layout and user-centered design principles.
Ability to juggle multiple projects, and balance them effectively.
A strong understanding of the latest web technologies and their capabilities
Willing to listen and learn to speak with disciplines other than your own, such as programmers, production managers, and clients.
A not-at-all-secret passion for games.
Experience
2+ years of experience designing user interfaces for games and websites.
Responsibilities
Translate user stories into wireframes, workflow diagrams, interactive mockups and prototypes.
Gather and evaluate user requirements, especially the ones they don't know they want.
Design and create UI elements for websites, apps, and traditional, VR and AR games.
Explain design choices and provide rationale.
Collaborating with dev team to implement and integrate the designs.
Take notes and critiques with a collaborative, team based approach.
Follow, maintain, and expand visual pattern libraries and style guides.
Identify opportunities to improve products.
Before You Hit Send
Make sure you provide us with a:
Cover Letter
Resume
References
Portfolio
About Joydrop/Mikutech
Joydrop/Mikutech is a full-service agency specializing in video game development and production. Under the branding of Joydrop, we craft experiences for the consumer on Nintendo Switch, Sony PlayStation, Microsoft Xbox One, mobile, and PC. Mikutech is our brand for serious gaming solutions involving medical and commercial training using augmented and virtual reality. Both brands were established by Mark Mikulec, a veteran game developer on titles like Warframe and Bioshock, an architect of 3D graphics engines, who has been at the forefront of VR/AR long before its recent popularity.
Working at Joydrop/Mikutech means working elbow to elbow with respected industry professionals and up-and-comers in code, art, and design. It also means you’ll not only be given the chance to show off your expertise and finesse, but learn alongside similarly ambitious people.
Mikutechis located in London, Ontario, a city with a large game developer community and most of the amenities of much larger -- much more crowded! -- urban centers.
The job’s requirements may seem daunting, but if you’re fresh out of school, you’re in luck –we love new grads!
Academic experience (via group projects) can count just as much as industry experience.
For further information about Mikutech visit www.mikutech.com or twitter@MikutechTips. Apply to jobs@mikutech.com and mention this job posting in the subject. For more information about Joydrop Ltd, visit joydrop.co.
Here are the top stories from the site this last month.
Way of the Passive Fist was announced and then released for Switch.
Block Droppin Blitz released on iOS.
Terrorarium Hits Early Access.
Google’s upcoming streaming service, Stadia has a Canadian connection.
Blazing Bit Games Reveals New Retro Shooter Nightmare Reaper.
Pitfall Planet is out on Switch.
Amateurs by Sleepy Tom Released as a Retro-Style arcade skateboarding game.
Assassin’s Creed Odyssey’s next DLC is out now.
Multiplayer tower offense Radio Violence out on Steam.
Rogue Star Rescue is also out now on Steam.
Golf Bitz releases world-wide on iOS and Android.
Crimson Moon DLC for Starlink: Batle for Atlas is out now
We also had some job postings!
We break down Baldur Gate 3's unprecedented success & the knock-on effects it'll have on the industry and how we make games moving forward. We also speak to Ontario-based indie game devs Twinolli about their upcoming action-puzzler Highlighters which just got a (Dad Deck-verified) Steam demo!
We speak to Québécois game dev Dragon Slumber, creator of Tech Support, Aethernaut and other games.
We reveal the winners of our ‘23 Community Awards poll and discuss Drinkbox’s latest teaser for their next project- and more!
This week thousands more game developers join Stephan in the "terminated by evil, stupid people" camp as layoffs hit tons of studios all over Canada and the world. We discuss Sonic as well. Sonic supports Unionizing your Workplace!
Stephan got terminated but that’s okay he just has more time to cover Canadian games now.
After a (ginormous) hiatus, Steve and Stephan are BACK to discuss some Canadian Games Industry news from the past few months but just catch up and talk about games and big game thoughts, man… and launch our end of 2023 Community Awards Polls! Nominate now!!
KEIGH THREEEEEE! New Compulsion Games’ game, Thunder Lotus goes multiplayer, age-old game development questions pondered and Zelda hierarchy debated.
In Stephan's last recorded and produced episode in Halifax, NS, we dive into a bunch of Canadian games from Fire Station to Super Animal Royale to Project Dark. We also talk new Canadian Nindies announcements and more news!
In case you haven’t checked it out yet, there are A BUNCH of jobs being posted on the site right now. Specifically the postings are from the National Film Board of Canada’s Ontario Studio. The below jobs link to their full posting.
National Film Board of Canada’s Ontario Studio
Autumn with the Shiba Inu, the next project from Toronto-based visual novel powerhouse Quill Studios, is coming to Kickstarter this week.
Canadian indie game studio Red Meat Games have released their episodic, narrative-driven audio game Project Dark on Steam and Nintendo Switch.
Achimostawinan Games have released their Indigenous cybernoir detective narrative adventure game Hill Agency: PURITYdecay for Steam and itch.io.
Vancouver-based Red Hook Studios have released the last update to their roguelike sequel Darkest Dungeon II before it leaves Early Access in May.
Toronto-based Komi Games partnered with Limited Run Games to release a physical edition of their 2021 arena fighter Mighty Fight Federation for PS4 and PS5.
Montréal-based game dev Johan Vinet has partnered with Limited Run Games to release physical copies of his upcoming 2D cinematic platformer LUNARK for PlayStation 4, 5 and Nintendo Switch- set to release later this week.
Montréal-based Lucid Dreams, creators of Legends of Ethernal, is launching a Kickstarter for BIOMORPH which they describe as “a dark Metroidvania that still has plenty of surprises...”
Vancouver-based indie game developer Nikko Nikko has announced their upcoming “genre-melting Rhythm RPG” INFINITE GUITARS will release in March for Steam, Xbox and Nintendo Switch.
Vancouver, BC-based developer of The Long Dark Hinterland Studios is hiring for a new, unannounced sci-fi game codenamed “Project Hummingbird.”
For questions related to advertisements, email us at ads [@] canadiangamedevs [.] com.
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