Texture

Term from Video Game Development industry explained for recruiters

A texture is like the 'skin' or surface appearance that makes objects in video games look realistic. Think of it as wallpaper that wraps around 3D objects in games. Just like real-world objects have different surface looks (like wood grain, metal shine, or fabric patterns), textures give game objects their visual details. Artists create these textures using image editing software like Photoshop or specialized tools. When you see realistic-looking characters, buildings, or landscapes in games, that's largely due to well-made textures.

Examples in Resumes

Created high-quality Texture work for main character models in AAA game title

Optimized Textures for mobile game platforms to improve performance

Led the Texture art team in developing realistic environmental materials

Typical job title: "Texture Artists"

Also try searching for:

3D Artist Surface Artist Material Artist Environment Artist Technical Artist Game Artist Character Artist

Where to Find Texture Artists

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you approach texture optimization for different gaming platforms?

Expected Answer: A senior texture artist should explain how they balance visual quality with performance, mentioning different resolution requirements for PC vs. mobile games, and techniques for reducing file sizes while maintaining quality.

Q: Describe your experience leading texture art teams and establishing art pipelines.

Expected Answer: Should discuss experience in creating style guides, managing multiple artists, setting quality standards, and ensuring consistent texture work across large projects.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What's your process for creating realistic textures for game environments?

Expected Answer: Should explain their workflow from reference gathering to final implementation, including how they ensure textures look natural and fit the game's style.

Q: How do you handle texture work for characters versus environments?

Expected Answer: Should describe different approaches for organic versus hard surface texturing, and how they adapt their techniques based on the subject matter.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What basic tools do you use for creating textures?

Expected Answer: Should be able to name common software like Photoshop, Substance Painter, or similar tools, and explain basic texture creation processes.

Q: How do you ensure your textures match the art style of a project?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate understanding of following style guides, referencing existing work, and getting feedback from art directors.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic texture creation
  • Understanding of color theory
  • Knowledge of common art software
  • Basic material creation

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Advanced texturing techniques
  • Efficient workflow processes
  • Multiple style adaptation
  • Performance optimization

Senior (5+ years)

  • Team leadership
  • Pipeline development
  • Technical problem-solving
  • Art direction capabilities

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No portfolio of texture work
  • Lack of knowledge about game engine requirements
  • No experience with industry-standard art software
  • Poor understanding of optimization needs

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