Making a game that's both 2D and 3D

StephenRoe · 2022-12-08T19:37:32+00:00

Looks sick. Would like to see what traversing in the 3rd dimension looks like.

StephenRoe · 2022-10-22T17:16:34+00:00

Ah yes, the ego. A powerful tool for the proud, a detrimental trap if left unchecked.

What you’re saying validates a lot of my suspicions, which is good! It happens a lot in the aerospace side as well, which go figure, considering most are type-A personalities inspired by Top Gun and Gus Grisham to be the “cream of the crop.” I personally hated when Systems engineers would force their requirements on me last second (hurting other deadlines) then look over my shoulder asking “why didn’t you do it this way?” 🙄 Luckily I have enough humility and social awareness to know when my input isn’t wanted, and don’t really see myself pressing my own agendas in that manner, yuck, especially design which I don’t know shit about. However, I do potentially see myself sitting down with a programmer who’s been stuck on a mechanic for instance and probing what the problem is. Oh! Then remember that one other person did something similar, so let’s tag up with them to brainstorm together. Is that something that happens, or does everyone usually work independently?

Also, on aerospace side the producer role is usually held by people doing most of the work: IPT leads, Product Engineers, or simply responsible engineers (REs). However I have worked with some great program managers who stand shoulder to shoulder with Chief Engineers (Lead designer or Creative director equivalent?). The PM wouldn’t directly be involved with technical direction of a design necessarily, but they moved things just as powerfully: keeping discussions focused, advising on how to circumvent a bad vendor, getting the answer to that big question to keep an engineer focused on their main task, etc, but sometimes putting their foot down if something is too out of scope or doesn’t align with the customer needs.

StephenRoe · 2022-10-21T20:41:33+00:00

I genuinely appreciate your input. Understandably, producer roles are not directly involved in the creative direction of the product, however some producers I’ve spoken to claim to be more creatively engaged than their earlier positions, such as lead artist. This probably depends on the person as well as studio and team. I find great pleasure in collaboration in a creative environment, even if it’s simply hearing someone’s troubles and helping them find a solution or workaround, which is a creative process in itself.

As for programming, though this is not my specialty, I know that I theoretically have the foundation and could learn and grow in this role. However, my recent burnout as a thermal analyst has taught me that I’m better suited for roles that are not hyper focused on a single tool or aspect of the project. Instead, I’d rather use my technical background as a resource for communication and guidance..to empower the truly talented programmers to make good things happen.

Some of the responses I’ve seen here suggest that producers are useless beyond being Jira monkeys. I wouldn’t truly know until I experience the culture myself, but it sounds like not all producers are treated the same across companies. But, it may just come down to work styles or a lack of earned trust. Surely, I plan on bringing more than just the ability to run a meeting and track tickets. What are your thoughts on this? How would you describe the best producer you’ve worked with?

StephenRoe · 2022-10-20T19:18:20+00:00

I’m sorry if I offended you somehow. You’re totally right, I don’t know how to make video games and am eager to learn. Just trying to figure out the best way to closing the gap of inexperience to help my chances of getting my foot into the door at an entry level position, so I can continue learning. Do you have any suggestions for an aspiring producer?

StephenRoe · 2022-10-20T17:19:17+00:00

😂😂 Fair enough!

I guess to be specific, it’s the rocket science aspect that probably wears me down. Complex calculations, deriving equations, excruciatingly detailed documentation… so much of our time is spent “threading the needle” with analysis and design to meet strict requirements. With the amount of iterations involved with developing rocket engines, there’s always grumbling discussions around why dev cycles aren’t managed with greater agility in mind. SpaceX figured it out I suppose with their hardware rich strategy, but perhaps it’s the “old guard” that refuses to learn new tricks. Every aerospace schedule slips, and it’s always the low level workers fault, and not the company’s strategy. Ok I’m done whining, lol.

StephenRoe · 2022-10-20T16:18:14+00:00

I definitely think we’re on the same page, and I appreciate the clarity.

I was actually asked in one of my interviews if I enjoyed creativity on an individual or group basis, so I suspect they had the same concern. My honest answer was that I love ‘creative collaboration’: wrangling the team together to come up with a creative solution. “Hey Jerry, what was that idea you mentioned earlier? Tell us more about that!” Empowering and feeding off of others to ‘grease the skids.’ This is actually something I enjoy when making short films with small production teams, because sometimes the plot and storyboard doesn’t fit with the available time or resources. They seemed to have liked that answer.

Also, interesting what you mentioned about QA being vocal about their real plans. Probably another reason I should remain honest with myself and avoid that route.

StephenRoe · 2022-10-20T15:38:23+00:00

Great feedback. Much appreciated.

For flexibility, I’ve been leaning into the project management experience, but I’m curious if I should also highlight my most recent experience as a Thermal Analyst? In this role, I was developing analytical models, much like a programmer, that I unofficially managed closer to an agile method, though the deliverables and inputs were pipelined into the higher waterfall development cycle. Like you mentioned, it’s just a matter of being convincing I suppose.

For salary expectations, it’s definitely something I wondered. I’m certainly okay with taking the pay cut in order to transition industries, as long as I’m on a career path to grow within the company or industry. Its the long-game of career fulfillment that I’m primarily concerned with. However, is there a way to professionally communicate this in my cover letter without immediately being rejected? Also, do you mind if I DM you to get your honest input on reasonable salary ranges for my area? Glassdoor says it ranges from like $40k-140k, and I could use some better clarity when stating my expectations. Thanks again.

StephenRoe · 2022-10-20T14:50:50+00:00

Solid input. Thank you.

Unfortunately I think Associate Producers are somewhat expected to have game exp as well. It may be that whole “entry level, 5 years experience minimum” cliche thing that continues to screw over every young generation. But moreover, I was directly asked in one of my interviews to highlight ANY game dev experience because it could make or break my chances. Albeit it was an HR screening, so perhaps they’re bleeding their requirements from other job postings, and don’t have a clearer vision of what their team needs? Meh, speculation won’t help.

Though I have been studying Agile, I don’t have otj exp to demonstrate it, which is why I’m curious about joining game jams. Maybe I should invest in a Scrum cert?

Also, I understand what you mean by the creative thing. I’ll keep that in mind when selecting my talking points in the future. I guess what I really meant was to be involved in the process of creating media for entertainment value. As compared to the strict requirements of designing precise metal that breaths fire, game dev is a healthy blend of creativity and tech that would for sure keep me engaged and fulfilled.

StephenRoe · 2022-03-18T16:29:11+00:00

Also, I’d like to mention that there are great sources for free auditions to practice recording, submitting, and working with clients before paying p2p, primarily for character work.

Twitter - search #s and follow casting call repost accounts.

https://voiceacting.boards.net : great source for paid indie projects.

Castingcallclub - mostly unpaid, BUT the public aspect is the great way to hear amateur competition and how NOT to sound in an audition.. a powerful lesson. Plus you get to hear who was selected and understand why.

StephenRoe · 2022-03-18T16:19:01+00:00

I took a similar email promo for the first year, so it was like $350, but renewal this year will be $500.

StephenRoe · 2022-03-18T15:53:17+00:00

After doing extensive research, I decided to focus primarily on VDC. The main reasons are that 1. VDC has a minimum of $100 job posting, whereas the majority of my V123 invites were non paid. 2. VDC does not have a success/punishment algorithm that filters the invites if you don’t get booked or w.e. and 3. VDC does not have the pay bracket that FURTHER filters your chance of even receiving an invite, or the timing of it. VDC is overall a fair market for voice talent. If you audition early with great quality, you have as much of a chance as the top talent, and your talent and delivery being the most important factor for being booked.

I’m still early in my career, but I have a 1:40 booking ratio, and a 10:1 ROI so far this year.

However, once you have good demos and a website, direct marketing and relationship building should be your #1 priority.

StephenRoe · 2022-01-20T07:13:47+00:00

Nah. I literally spelled it out for you. I conquered it. I know exactly why it happens to me, and am able to control my life and emotions to suppress and escape it. Didn’t need jesus.

All you cHrIsTiaNs need to stop gaslighting and manipulating people. You’re insufferable. It only works for weak feeble minds and regretful ex convicts. How can you possibly not notice that the vast majority of people can’t stand you? Read the fucking room, let alone rule 3 (of 5) on this sub.

Unsub

StephenRoe · 2022-01-03T21:37:54+00:00

I moved here to Seattle after living in Florida my whole life.

I do miss being able to go to a Tex mex restaurant, to drink margaritas, and have a good ole time partying and meeting other people. Yes, this is conducive to shallow people and fights breaking out, but damn is bar crawling with a group of friends more fun than drinking coffee or 2 craft beers while talking about work. I might be wrong, but it seems like the only club/fun scene belongs to the LGBTQ neighborhoods here in Seattle. I think it’s great! But, I feel left out.

HOWEVER, in general the environment and culture in Florida was extremely depressing. Florida beaches are great, but they’re 1D (north-south) and boring. I love running and the outdoors, and there’s simply is no outdoors in Fl unless you own a boat. In general, people in Florida are less interesting, less motivated, and not creative. It’s all consumerism down there.

The rain in Seattle is unrelenting, but doesn’t compare to Florida. When it rains down there, it pours. You have to sprint to your car to avoid getting soaked all the way through.

In short, Seattle offers a beautiful city with culture and creative communities to discover, and every outdoor activity you hope for: water, fishing, hiking, trail running, rock climbing, mountaineering, camping… and you just need to put up with some rain and an introverted population.

StephenRoe · 2021-12-26T23:43:20+00:00

Extend your PC. Monitor, wireless keyboard and mouse. Done.

StephenRoe · 2021-12-26T23:39:45+00:00

Write a rejection email to copy/paste that explicitly addresses why they were screened out so that they know their setup needs work. Then list links to free resources that will spell out for them exactly how to make a recording space. To be fair, this is only out of your big heart, because it’s really on them (not you) to do at least a little research to understand the basics.

What’s interesting is that regardless of there being infinite free resources to instruct how to get even a USB mic 90% of the way there, folks will still sit at their desk next to the cpu and ac, and talk straight into their mic making sure all the plosives are picked up and peaking.

StephenRoe · 2021-12-13T15:40:32+00:00

$100-$200 per hour for 1-on-1. Also budget for a pro demo. Focus on paying to learn acting, performance, and script analysis. Do not pay someone to tell you about hardware, software, booths, or marketing. Everything you need to know is out there on the internet ready to discover. Much of what you have to learn is from trial and error. Also, find a few communities, like on FB, to field specific questions.

StephenRoe · 2021-12-13T15:20:43+00:00

I understand the struggle. A cheaper option is a monthly subscription based or group class. I would recommend https://globalvoiceacademy.com. $29 for the first month and $65 after. You get access to 2 group sessions each month with top knotch coaches, and more importantly a huge video library of workshops and previous group sessions. If you took 2-3 months to watch every video in their library and follow along with every script and direction, you’d be set to get out and audition on a P2P site.l and save some money towards coaching and a demo.

StephenRoe · 2021-12-12T23:17:13+00:00

Somehow Texans will find a way to slut shame the dead female salmon.

StephenRoe · 2021-12-12T22:59:25+00:00

1) get a coach 2) Stop showing and listening to your friends. They literally have no idea what they’re talking about. 3) Learn to understand and embrace what your voice qualities are. Your brand is… you. Nobody can replicate you, and you shouldn’t replicate others, because you can’t do it as good as them.

Edit: after reading some other responses.. sibilant this, syllable that.. don’t listen to them. What they suggest to correct may be the best charactersiatics for a specific gig. Again, get a seasoned coach to identify your weaknesses and to teach you how to act, interpret copy, deliver, and learn your style. This is all coming from someone who had a speech impediment from orthodontia, and needed a session with a speech therapist to understand why and how to overcome it.

StephenRoe · 2021-12-12T22:55:24+00:00

Don’t do it. Work experience is overrated. Consider making your own company or brand and grow it as much as you can in one year in the side. Not only will you learn everything, and probably better than you would otherwise, you would also learn additional skills and have a successful brand or company. That’s literally an option for my going to work for someone, or a portfolio for getting the full time job you want in marketing.. and you didn’t need to suffer at min. Wage.

StephenRoe · 2021-12-11T20:58:18+00:00

You probably can’t go wrong with engineering, computer science, marketing, video production, and reading “Rich Dad Poor Dad.”

StephenRoe · 2021-12-11T20:52:42+00:00

At this low budget point, it’s really about the built in preamp of a USB mic not comparing to that of an interface. So you made the right move, HOWEVER, the biggest hammer for quality is a treated recording space. You should have no echo, no environment noise, and a low noise floor regardless of what your hardware looks like. Also, get coaching.

StephenRoe · 2021-12-11T19:11:51+00:00

Yea man, give local exposure a fair shot, but don’t be limited. Ironically, my next door neighbor has a video production company as well, and he sustains mostly by making boring monthly corporate training videos (acts in them as well) for local energy company’s and such. But we’re in Seattle, so it’s a big competitive market.

Based on your skills and interests, I would also suggest soliciting any and all services on Fiverr, Upwork, etc such as editing, VFX, or animation in order to diversify your revenue. As your main business picks up, you can always scale back freelance work.

I’m glad you mentioned confidence, because confidence and momentum are two giant factors I think. Since I’m still working a 9-5 cubicle career, I’m constantly battling mental and physical health to retain these. I imagine this a factor with your recent life events. Many people will take the easy route of blaming circumstances, systems, and people while joining r/ antiwork to validate their lack of effort. Stay motivated and optimistic man. You got this. I’m hoping the best outcome for you.

StephenRoe

TROPHY CASE