In a similar theme to our most recent article, we are still in a position within the Games Industry where there is a shortage of positions, and studios are doing everything they can to recruit only the top 0.1% of candidates for specialist roles. This has led to lengthier interview processes, and of course extra steps, such as Art Tests. Tests have become an essential part of interview processes for many studios, which on the surface is a fair touchpoint. By definition, if a studio is working on something new, whether it’s a new IP or an original idea, the odds of you having a perfectly matching selection of work on your portfolio is unlikely. The test can therefore serve as a great leveler for people in process who are capable of producing the work, but maybe haven’t had a chance to work on an identical project as of yet.
Given that there are now more job-hunters in the art space than ever before, the competition for new roles has never been higher, meaning that tests are an incredible opportunity to position yourself above the pack.
It therefore made sense to put together a quick list of do’s and don'ts that we know studios are keen to see from Art Test submissions, giving you the best chance
Studios expect game-ready work
There is a real mis-conception across a lot of candidates that an art test is there to show that you understand a theory, and that “with more time” you would be able to show things in more detail. Unfortunately that is not the case, and studios are looking to see game-ready work put forward in art tests. The aim is to show that you are capable of fitting into a section of their pipeline in a hands-on setting, showcasing your hands on skill to the best of your ability. Will it be difficult to find the time and commit, yes of course it will - but there are candidates that are going to find the time and they are your competition for these roles. A test is the first and often only chance you will get to impress a studio with your hands-on ability with a brief they have set, so use the opportunity wisely.
Follow the brief and always ask questions
I have genuinely lost count of the amount of tests over the last few years that have been rejected simply due to the candidate not following a brief, whether that be not delivering additional requested documentation, working to different scales & sizes or even delivering assets that weren’t ever asked for. One of the main points of a test is to understand your abilities to follow briefs, so if you aren’t sure on how to interpret something, always ask for clarification. Studios will respect this as it shows you care, and ultimately means you will deliver a test closer to the brief as they interpret it. Asking questions and clarifying is part of the day to day in an active working studio, so having the confidence to ask will go a long way.
The time is there to be used, use it all
It may sound incredibly simple, but if you are given a week’s worth of time to complete a test, use the full week. Give yourself time to plan, to build, to tweak and to review your work. Again, this testing process is designed to assess how you manage your time and how you make the most of it, as much as the final result. Delivering a test early is almost certainly going to result in aspects being missed, so use the time you are given to deliver your best possible work. The phrase “If I had more time” shouldn’t be factored into your delivery, with studios always being keen to give ample time to complete the tests.
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The three above points are the top three reasons why we see people fail art tests, so take note of the points and give yourself the best opportunity to pass this stage of an interview process!
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