3D Character Artist for Fantasy Action RPG | AI & Computer Vision (US Only)

What makes a video game character unforgettable? Sometimes it's the armor. Sometimes it's the way they move. And sometimes it's that one incredible boss fight you still remember years later. We're working on a fantasy action RPG project and looking for a talented "US-based 3D Character Artist" who loves creating characters that feel alive, expressive, and memorable. Our creative direction draws from fast-paced action RPGs, with a strong focus on distinctive character designs, dynamic combat aesthetics, and immersive fantasy environments. We're particularly interested in artists who combine traditional 3D modeling skills with curiosity about emerging technologies, including Computer Vision, AI-assisted workflows, and image-based 3D development. You don't need to be an expert in everything. We're looking for someone who takes pride in their work, enjoys solving creative challenges, and wants to contribute to something exciting. --What You'll Be Working On Your primary responsibility will be creating original, high-quality 3D characters suitable for a real-time action RPG. Depending on your experience, your work may include: 3D Character Creation - Designing and modeling fantasy heroes, warriors, enemies, and other game characters. - Creating detailed anatomy, armor, clothing, weapons, and accessories. - Developing high-resolution sculpts and optimized low-poly game meshes. - Producing clean topology suitable for rigging and animation. - Creating UV maps, PBR textures, and realistic or stylized materials. - Preparing and exporting assets for Unreal Engine or Unity. Computer Vision & AI – Bonus Experience We're also exploring how modern visual technologies might support our character development pipeline. Experience in the following areas would be especially interesting: - Computer Vision and image processing with OpenCV or similar frameworks. - AI-assisted workflows for 3D character development. - Image-based 3D reconstruction and photogrammetry. - Human pose estimation and motion tracking. - Computer Vision techniques for motion capture or animation reference. - Python-based tools for automating portions of the character creation pipeline. These capabilities are a bonus rather than a requirement for the initial modeling work. --What We're Looking For We're hoping to connect with someone who has: - Demonstrated experience creating 3D characters for games or interactive applications. - Strong knowledge of Blender, Maya, ZBrush, or comparable software. - An understanding of character anatomy, proportions, topology, and visual design. - Experience with UV mapping, texture creation, and real-time asset optimization. - Familiarity with Unreal Engine or Unity. - The ability to interpret concept art and develop ideas into polished 3D models. - Good communication skills and a collaborative approach to feedback. Knowledge of Computer Vision, Python, OpenCV, photogrammetry, or AI-assisted content creation is a welcome advantage. We're more interested in your actual work and problem-solving approach than in formal qualifications. --Initial Project Deliverables Our first milestone will focus on producing one original, game-ready fantasy character. Expected deliverables: 1. Initial character blockout based on approved visual references. 2. Final high-quality 3D character model. 3. Optimized, animation-friendly topology. 4. UV mapping and PBR texture sets. 5. Character accessories or equipment agreed upon in the scope. 6. Game-engine-compatible FBX files and editable source files. 7. Presentation renders showing the completed character. Rigging, animation, and Computer Vision implementation may be considered as separate milestones depending on the freelancer's experience and the project's needs. --Why Work With Us? We believe the best creative work happens when artists have room to contribute their own ideas. We want someone who doesn't just follow instructions but also thinks about what could make a character more memorable, expressive, or visually interesting. You'll have the opportunity to: - Help shape the visual identity of original fantasy game characters. - Share creative ideas and experiment with artistic approaches. - Work remotely with a flexible schedule and clear milestones. - Explore modern tools and techniques where they add practical value. - Potentially collaborate on additional characters and game assets after the initial project. We appreciate creativity, reliability, attention to detail, and friendly, straightforward communication. --Project Details - Location: United States only - Project type: Freelance / Remote - Experience level: Intermediate to Expert - Budget: $35–$60 per hour, depending on skills and portfolio - Initial commitment: Approximately 10–25 hours per week - Estimated duration: 1–3 months - Initial scope: One original fantasy action RPG character - Future work: Possible additional character assets and technical milestones --How to Apply We'd love to learn about the person behind the portfolio! Please include a few examples of your best 3D character work and a short introduction about your experience. We're especially interested in hearing from artists who enjoy action RPGs, fantasy character design, and creative technology. Please answer the screening questions included with this posting. You don't need to send us a lengthy, formal cover letter. We'd much rather see what you've built, learn how you approach your work, and hear what gets you excited about character creation. -One fun question before you go: If you could design a completely original boss character for a fantasy action RPG, what would make players remember that encounter? Whether it's an unforgettable silhouette, an unusual weapon, or a creative combat mechanic, we'd love to hear your idea. If creating amazing game characters is your passion, we'd love to connect!