Principal Gameplay Animator for Competitive MP & Equity

Bonfire Studios; California (MO); On-site; USD 197,000 - 247,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Equity

Full benefits package

Extra perks

Job summary

Bonfire Studios seeks a Senior/Principal Animator to define the animation language for Arkheron, a fast-paced competitive PvP title. On a small team, you will shape how every ability, encounter, and moment of impact feels, from concept to final implementation.

You will own end-to-end animation features, collaborate with designers, engineers, and tech artists, and help push the boundaries of gameplay readability and responsiveness.

Qualifications

• Proven track record delivering high-quality gameplay animation for multiplayer games.
• Strong understanding of how animation drives responsive combat and readability.
• Experience shaping animation systems and tools in evolving engines.
• Ability to own features from concept to final implementation.

Responsibilities

• Create high-quality in-game character animations for combat and movement.
• Collaborate with designers, engineers, and tech artists to ensure responsive gameplay.
• Shape rigs, tools, and animation systems to improve workflows.
• Own animation features end-to-end from early exploration to polish.
• Align with the team on style and quality while contributing ideas.
• Iterate based on playtests to improve feel and gameplay impact.
• Balance fidelity with performance and readability.
• Wear multiple hats on a small team.
• Contribute to building a new IP.

Skills

Gameplay animation

Independent ownership

Cross-disciplinary collaboration

Shipped titles

Job description

Bonfire Studios seeks a Senior/Principal Animator to define the animation language for Arkheron, a fast-paced competitive PvP title. On a small team, you will shape how every ability, encounter, and moment of impact feels, from concept to final implementation.

You will own end-to-end animation features, collaborate with designers, engineers, and tech artists, and help push the boundaries of gameplay readability and responsiveness.