Getting a job as a game artist can be tough. Many people want to work in the exciting world of video games, which means there's a lot of competition for each job. That's why it's so important to have a good cover letter when you apply.
A cover letter is a short message that goes with your resume when you apply for a job. It's your chance to show the company why you're the best person for the job. For game artists, a cover letter is extra important because it lets you explain your skills and show off your creativity.
In the game industry, employers want to see that you understand what makes games special. They also want to know that you can work well with others and come up with new ideas. A good cover letter can help you show all of these things.
When you write a cover letter for a game artist job, you should talk about your art skills, your knowledge of games, and why you want to work for that specific company. You should also mention any experience you have working on games, even if it was just for fun or school projects.
Remember, your cover letter is often the first thing a potential employer will read about you. It's your chance to make a good first impression and get them interested in looking at your portfolio and resume. By writing a clear, honest, and enthusiastic cover letter, you can increase your chances of getting noticed and landing an interview for your dream job as a game artist.
Game Artist Cover Letter Example
Dear Allan Morales,
I am writing to express my keen interest in the Game Artist position at Electronic Arts. As a passionate and creative professional with a deep love for video games and digital art, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to EA's world-renowned game development team.
Throughout my career, I have honed my skills in various aspects of game art, including character design, environment creation, and texture mapping. My proficiency in industry-standard software such as Maya, ZBrush, and Substance Painter has allowed me to bring vibrant, immersive worlds to life. I am particularly proud of my work on [mention a specific project or achievement], which showcased my ability to blend artistic vision with technical expertise.
What draws me to Electronic Arts is not only its stellar reputation in the gaming industry but also its commitment to pushing the boundaries of visual storytelling. I am especially impressed by [mention a recent EA game or technology], and I am eager to contribute my unique perspective and skills to future projects that will captivate players worldwide.
I thrive in collaborative environments and have experience working closely with game designers, programmers, and other artists to ensure cohesive and stunning game visuals. My ability to adapt to evolving project needs and meet tight deadlines makes me a reliable team player in the fast-paced world of game development.
Additionally, I am constantly expanding my skill set to stay ahead of industry trends. Recently, I have been exploring [mention a relevant new skill or technology], which I believe will be valuable in creating cutting-edge game art for EA's upcoming titles.
I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my passion for game art, technical skills, and creative vision align with Electronic Arts' goals. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of contributing to the innovative work at EA and helping to create unforgettable gaming experiences.
Sincerely,
Deann Thomas
How to Write & Format a Cover Letter Header
The header of your game artist cover letter sets the tone for your application and provides essential contact information. A well-crafted header ensures that hiring managers can easily identify your document and reach out to you if interested.
Key Components of a Cover Letter Header
- Your full name
- Professional title (e.g., "Game Artist" or "3D Character Artist")
- Phone number
- Email address
- City and state/province (optional)
- Portfolio website or LinkedIn profile (if applicable)
Formatting Tips
- Use a clean, professional font
- Align the header to the left or center of the page
- Consider using a slightly larger font size for your name
- Separate information with vertical lines or bullet points for clarity
Additional Considerations
- Match the header style to your resume for consistency
- Ensure all contact information is current and professional
- Use a personal email address rather than one associated with your current employer
- Double-check for any typos or formatting errors
By creating a polished and informative header, you'll make a strong first impression and demonstrate your attention to detail – a crucial skill for any game artist.
Greeting Your Potential Employer
After crafting a professional header for your game artist cover letter, it's time to focus on the greeting. This seemingly small detail can set the tone for your entire letter and make a strong first impression on the hiring manager.
Research the Recipient
Whenever possible, address your letter to a specific person. Take the time to research the company and identify the hiring manager or relevant department head. This personal touch demonstrates initiative and attention to detail.
Use a Professional Salutation
If you have a name, use "Dear Mr./Ms./Dr. [Last Name]." In cases where you can't find a specific name, opt for a general but professional greeting such as "Dear Hiring Manager" or "Dear [Company Name] Recruitment Team."
Avoid Outdated or Overly Casual Greetings
Steer clear of outdated salutations like "To Whom It May Concern" or overly casual greetings like "Hey there" or "Hi folks." These can come across as impersonal or unprofessional in a formal cover letter.
Be Mindful of Gender Assumptions
If you're unsure about the recipient's gender or preferred title, it's best to use their full name or a gender-neutral greeting to avoid any potential missteps.
By paying attention to these details in your greeting, you'll set a positive, professional tone for the rest of your game artist cover letter. This small but crucial element can help you stand out and make a memorable first impression on potential employers.
Introducing Yourself in a Cover Letter
The introduction of your game artist cover letter is your chance to make a strong first impression and capture the reader's attention. This crucial opening paragraph should be concise, engaging, and tailored to the specific job and company you're applying to.
Begin by stating the position you're applying for and where you found the job listing. This immediately shows that you've done your research and are genuinely interested in the role. Next, briefly mention your most relevant qualifications or experiences that make you an ideal candidate for the position.
Consider highlighting a specific achievement or skill that aligns with the job requirements. For example, you could mention a successful game project you contributed to or a particular artistic style you've mastered that's relevant to the company's games.
It's also effective to express your enthusiasm for the company and its games. Demonstrate your knowledge of their work and explain why you're excited about the opportunity to join their team. This shows that you're not just looking for any job, but are specifically interested in working with them.
Remember to keep your introduction concise and focused. Aim for 3-4 sentences that pack a punch and entice the reader to continue. Your goal is to create a hook that leads naturally into the main body of your cover letter, where you'll expand on your qualifications and experiences.
Strong Example
Dear Hiring Manager,
As a passionate game artist with over 5 years of experience in creating immersive digital worlds, I was thrilled to see the opening for a Senior Game Artist at Pixelcraft Studios. Your recent release, 'Neon Odyssey,' showcased the kind of innovative visual storytelling that I've always strived to achieve in my work. I am eager to bring my expertise in 3D modeling, texturing, and environmental design to contribute to your studio's next groundbreaking project.
Why is this a strong example?
This is a strong introduction for several reasons. First, it immediately establishes the applicant's relevant experience and passion for the field. The mention of '5 years of experience' quickly communicates their level of expertise. Second, it demonstrates knowledge of the company by referencing a specific game they've produced, showing that the applicant has done their research. Third, it expresses enthusiasm for the company's work, creating a personal connection. Finally, it briefly highlights key skills (3D modeling, texturing, environmental design) that are likely crucial for the position, while also expressing a forward-looking attitude about contributing to future projects. This introduction is concise yet informative, tailored to the specific company, and sets a professional tone that would encourage the reader to continue reviewing the application.
Weak Example
Hi there, I'm writing this letter because I saw your job posting for a Game Artist position. I've always loved playing video games, so I thought I'd apply. I'm not sure if I have all the qualifications you're looking for, but I'm a fast learner and I'm really passionate about games. I hope you'll consider me for the role.
Why is this a weak example?
This introduction is weak for several reasons. First, it lacks professionalism and formality expected in a cover letter. The casual tone ('Hi there') is inappropriate for a job application. Second, it shows a lack of confidence and preparation, with phrases like 'I'm not sure if I have all the qualifications' and 'I thought I'd apply.' This doesn't inspire confidence in the hiring manager. Third, it fails to showcase any specific skills, experiences, or achievements relevant to game art. Instead, it relies on generic statements about loving games and being a fast learner, which don't set the applicant apart. Lastly, it doesn't demonstrate any research into the company or enthusiasm for this specific opportunity, which are crucial elements in a strong cover letter introduction.
Writing the Body of Your Cover Letter
The body of your game artist cover letter is where you showcase your skills, experience, and passion for the industry. This section should be concise yet impactful, highlighting your most relevant qualifications and achievements.
In the first paragraph, focus on your technical skills and software proficiency. Mention specific tools and programs you're adept at using, such as Maya, ZBrush, or Unreal Engine. Explain how these skills have contributed to your success in previous projects or roles.
The second paragraph should emphasize your artistic abilities and creative process. Discuss your style, attention to detail, and ability to work within established art directions. If possible, provide a brief example of how your artistic contributions have enhanced a game's visual appeal or player experience.
In the third paragraph, highlight your teamwork and communication skills. Game development is a collaborative process, so emphasize your ability to work effectively with other artists, designers, and programmers. Mention any experience you have with iterative design processes or working under tight deadlines.
Finally, demonstrate your passion for the gaming industry. Discuss specific games or art styles that have inspired you, or mention any personal projects or game jams you've participated in. This shows your commitment to continuous learning and improvement in your craft.
Remember to tailor each paragraph to the specific job requirements and company culture. Use strong, action-oriented language and quantify your achievements whenever possible to make your cover letter more impactful and memorable.
Strong Example
As a passionate game artist with over five years of experience in the industry, I was thrilled to see the opening for a Senior Game Artist at Cosmic Studios. Your company's commitment to pushing the boundaries of visual storytelling in games aligns perfectly with my own artistic vision and career goals.
During my time at Pixel Perfect Games, I've had the opportunity to work on several AAA titles, including 'Neon Horizon' and 'Mythic Realms'. For 'Neon Horizon', I led the character design team, creating a diverse cast of cyberpunk characters that received critical acclaim for their unique visual style and attention to detail. My work on 'Mythic Realms' involved conceptualizing and modeling intricate fantasy environments, which contributed to the game winning 'Best Art Direction' at the Game Awards.
I'm particularly drawn to Cosmic Studios' upcoming project 'Stellar Odyssey'. The blend of sci-fi and fantasy elements in the teaser trailer resonates with my artistic strengths and interests. I believe my experience in both futuristic and fantastical art styles, combined with my proficiency in industry-standard software like Maya, ZBrush, and Substance Painter, would allow me to make significant contributions to this project and your studio as a whole.
I'm excited about the possibility of bringing my creative vision, technical skills, and collaborative spirit to your team. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my experience and passion for game art can contribute to Cosmic Studios' continued success in creating visually stunning and immersive gaming experiences.
Why is this a strong example?
This is a strong example of a cover letter body for a Game Artist position for several reasons. First, it immediately establishes the candidate's relevant experience and passion for the field, which grabs the reader's attention. The letter then specifically mentions the company (Cosmic Studios) and demonstrates knowledge of their work, showing genuine interest and research.
The candidate provides concrete examples of their work, mentioning specific game titles and achievements. This not only showcases their experience but also provides tangible evidence of their skills and impact. The mention of winning 'Best Art Direction' adds a notable accomplishment that sets them apart.
The letter then connects the candidate's experience directly to the company's needs, specifically mentioning an upcoming project ('Stellar Odyssey') and explaining how their skills align with it. This shows forethought and demonstrates how the candidate could immediately contribute to the company.
Finally, the letter mentions specific technical skills and software proficiency, which are crucial for a Game Artist role. The closing paragraph reiterates enthusiasm for the position and the company, ending on a strong, positive note.
Overall, this cover letter body is concise yet informative, balances confidence with humility, and effectively sells the candidate's skills and experience in relation to the specific job and company. It's personalized, focused, and likely to make a strong impression on the hiring manager.
Weak Example
I am writing to apply for the Game Artist position at your company. I have always loved playing video games and I think it would be cool to work on them. I can use Photoshop and have made some drawings of characters. I am a fast learner and I'm sure I can pick up any other skills you need. Please give me a chance to work for you.
Why is this a weak example?
This is a weak example for several reasons. First, it lacks specificity and fails to demonstrate a deep understanding of the game art industry. The applicant mentions generic software (Photoshop) without detailing proficiency in industry-standard tools like Maya, Zbrush, or Substance Painter. The mention of 'drawings of characters' is vague and doesn't showcase a portfolio or specific artistic achievements. The cover letter also fails to address the company's needs or show knowledge of their games or art style. The tone is informal and lacks professionalism, using phrases like 'cool to work on them.' Finally, it doesn't highlight any relevant education, experience, or passion projects that would make the applicant stand out as a game artist candidate. A stronger letter would detail specific skills, showcase relevant projects, and demonstrate knowledge of the company and industry.
How to Close Your Cover Letter
After crafting a compelling body for your game artist cover letter, it's crucial to end on a strong note with an effective closing. The closing paragraph is your final opportunity to leave a lasting impression and prompt the hiring manager to take action.
To create a powerful closing, start by reiterating your enthusiasm for the position and the company. Briefly summarize why you believe you're an excellent fit for the role, drawing on key points from your letter's body. Express your eagerness to discuss your qualifications further in an interview.
Next, include a clear call-to-action. Politely request an opportunity to meet or speak with the hiring manager to elaborate on how your skills and experience can contribute to the company's success. Provide your contact information and indicate your availability for an interview.
Conclude with a professional sign-off, such as "Sincerely" or "Best regards," followed by your full name. If submitting a physical letter, leave space for your handwritten signature above your typed name.
Remember to proofread your entire letter, paying special attention to the closing paragraph. Ensure that it flows seamlessly from the body and reinforces your suitability for the game artist position. A well-crafted closing can significantly boost your chances of securing an interview and ultimately landing your dream job in the gaming industry.
Strong Example
Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the possibility of contributing my artistic skills and passion for game development to your talented team at Stellar Studios. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my experience in 3D modeling, texturing, and environment design can help bring your next groundbreaking game to life. Please feel free to contact me at your convenience to arrange an interview. I appreciate your time and consideration.
Why is this a strong example?
This is a strong cover letter closing for several reasons. First, it expresses genuine enthusiasm for the position and the company, showing the candidate's interest in the role. It also specifically mentions key skills (3D modeling, texturing, environment design) that are relevant to a Game Artist position, reinforcing the candidate's qualifications. The closing politely requests an interview, demonstrating proactivity, and provides a clear next step for the hiring manager. The tone is professional yet personable, striking a good balance. Finally, it ends with a courteous acknowledgment of the reader's time, which is always appreciated. This closing leaves a positive final impression and encapsulates the candidate's qualifications and eagerness for the role.
Weak Example
Thank you for your time. I hope to hear from you soon. Have a nice day!
Why is this a weak example?
This closing is weak for several reasons. First, it's generic and could be used for any job application, showing no specific enthusiasm for the game artist position. It lacks any reference to the company or the role, missing an opportunity to reiterate interest. The phrase 'Have a nice day!' is too casual for a professional cover letter. Additionally, it doesn't include a call to action or express eagerness for next steps in the hiring process. A strong closing should leave a lasting impression, showcase passion for the gaming industry, and prompt the hiring manager to take action.
Cover Letter FAQs for Game Artist
What is the ideal format and length for a Game Artist cover letter?
A Game Artist cover letter should be concise, typically one page long (300-400 words). Use a professional business letter format with your contact information, the date, and the employer's details at the top. Structure it with an opening paragraph, 1-2 body paragraphs highlighting your skills and experience, and a closing paragraph. Use a clean, readable font and maintain consistent formatting throughout.
What key elements should I include in my Game Artist cover letter?
Your Game Artist cover letter should include: 1) A strong opening statement expressing your interest in the position, 2) Highlights of your relevant skills and experience in game art creation, 3) Specific examples of your work or projects that demonstrate your abilities, 4) Knowledge of the company and its games, 5) Your passion for game art and the gaming industry, and 6) A call-to-action closing statement requesting an interview.
How can I make my Game Artist cover letter stand out?
To make your cover letter stand out, personalize it for each job application, showcase your unique art style or specialization, mention specific games or projects you've worked on, demonstrate your knowledge of current game art trends and technologies, and include a link to your online portfolio. Use vivid language to describe your artistic process and how it aligns with the company's style or needs.
Should I mention software proficiencies in my Game Artist cover letter?
Yes, it's beneficial to mention your proficiency in relevant software tools in your Game Artist cover letter. Focus on industry-standard programs like Maya, 3ds Max, ZBrush, Substance Painter, or Photoshop. However, don't just list them; instead, briefly explain how you've used these tools in your work or how they've contributed to your success in previous projects.
How do I address gaps in experience in my Game Artist cover letter?
If you have gaps in your game art experience, focus on transferable skills from other artistic endeavors or related fields. Highlight personal projects, indie game collaborations, or relevant coursework. Emphasize your passion for game art and your commitment to learning and growth. Be honest about your experience level, but frame it positively by showcasing your enthusiasm and potential to contribute to the team.