Animation Magicians: Bringing creative careers to life at Games Global

The Games Global Graduate Programme allows recent graduates to embark on a transformative 12-month journey in our Cape Town and Durban office, gaining immersive, hands-on learning within the rapidly evolving gaming industry.

Beyond bringing careers to life, this comprehensive programme is all about empowering graduates with lasting tools and experiences to power long-term professional growth.

But what makes the scheme stand out all the more is that it welcomes graduates from various disciplines, from art to mathematics, and everything in between. Dive into the stories of two talented animators shaping their futures through the programme.

First up, we meet Schani Lane, 2D Animator Level 1 at Aurum Signature Studios, Games Global’s specialist bespoke game studio.

Schani completed her B.A. degree in Visual Communications majoring in Multimedia Design Studies at the Stellenbosch Academy of Design and Photography, in December 2023. Schani’s creative inspiration is drawn from multiple sources, starting with nature and branching out to her favourite 2D animator Eric Lefraure, and a small Spanish game studio, Nomada Studios. Since joining the Games Global Graduate Programme in January 2024, Schani has already landed a permanent role with the business.

Q: What have you learned so far during your time in the Games Global Graduate Programme?

A: I have learned a great deal about the iGaming industry even though it’s only been about four months. I’ve gained valuable insights about the technical aspects of game development, including software tools such as Spine and After Effects, as well as industry best practices, game optimisation and learning about the many levels and stages there are to making a game. It takes some time getting used to, but in all honesty, you quickly get into the groove of things, getting comfortable in your role and loving what you do. Furthermore, I have also developed valuable teamwork and communication skills through collaborating with other members in the team. My team, Aurum Signature Studios, is an especially feedback-friendly and supporting team, constantly communicating with, and helping each other to improve our work.

Q: In the fast-paced environment of iGaming, what are some key skills beyond animation proficiency that Games Global encourages its graduate programme participants to develop?

A: Because things happen so fast here, it’s natural that as a graduate participant you are encouraged to develop different kinds of skills in a short amount of time, such as adaptability, problem-solving, and creativity. The Graduate Programme offers a space where you quickly go from training and onboarding to taking part in live projects. You learn to become adaptable since the gaming industry is constantly evolving. As a graduate animator you are encouraged to cultivate your creativity, as innovative ideas are key to creating engaging and successful games. Each project is different from the next, which is also very stimulating for a creative mind.

Q: Have you faced any challenges as an animator transitioning from traditional animation to the dynamic world of iGaming?

A: Yes, definitely. I would say this transition mainly required changing my approach to animation. There was a learning curve for me having to learn new software, Spine 2D, and getting used to using that alongside software that I know already, such as After Effects and Photoshop. The interactive and immersive nature of games require the consideration of dynamic animations that is responsive to player input. Instead of creating motion graphics per brief, often following my own creative direction, I now have to follow a certain art direction, place myself in the player’s shoes and think about what animations would suit the game best. There is still a lot of creative licence even though there are guidelines to follow.

Q: What do you enjoy the most about your role?

A: I appreciate and enjoy the opportunity to be creative and innovative. I love bringing characters and symbols to life through my animations and then seeing how my work contributes to the overall gaming experience for the players and final look – it’s super rewarding! I also love the collaborative team environment at Games Global, where I have the chance to work closely with talented individuals from my team, all coming from different disciplines and experience levels, being able to learn from them, to share knowledge, and to grow professionally.

Next up, we caught up with Luke van Tonder, Graduate Animator in Portfolio at Games Global.

Luke joined the Graduate Programme in February 2024, having graduated with a Bachelor's in Visual Communications from Stellenbosch Academy of Design & Photography last year. Luke first learned about Games Global towards the end of his studies, when he was introduced to an animator from Aurum Signature Studios during a showcase event. Passionate about the outdoors, camping, and staying active, he finds inspiration from his surroundings, experiences, and the fellow designers he has met along the way.

Q: What have you learned so far during your time in the Games Global Graduate Programme?

A: I have developed my understanding of the animation industry as well as what the process of game production actually looks like in practice.

Q: In the fast-paced environment of iGaming, what are some key skills beyond animation proficiency that Games Global encourages its graduate programme participants to develop?

A: Since iGaming is such a fast paced industry, one of the skills I have developed is how to work on multiple projects simultaneously, planning and using my time effectively.

Q: Have you faced any challenges as an animator transitioning from traditional animation to the dynamic world of iGaming?

A: Luckily for me, many of the animation and design skills I developed prior to the Games Global Graduate Programme have carried over into iGaming animation. This has allowed me to explore new ways to create motion graphics. The ability to learn and understand how to use new programmes has also helped me learn how to work in Spine (the animation software we use for game animations).

Q: What do you enjoy the most about your role?

A: I enjoy the creative freedom my role provides. Working in collaboration with artists, developers, mathematicians, and sound designers has also allowed me to form connections outside my expertise.

Interested in joining the Games Global Graduate Programme?

Applications for 2025 will open during the second half of 2024, so keep your eyes on our social media and other online channels for more information.

Our People Team will also be attending a whole host of career fairs across South Africa this year, ready to meet prospective candidates on campus, including:

• Technology Career Xpo at the University of the Western Cape on 23 July 2024
• University of the Witwatersrand’s General Career Fair on 25 July 2024 in Johannesburg
• University of KwaZulu Natal’s General Career Fair on 31 July 2024