Top 5 Things to Consider When Picking a Game Art Outsourcing Studio

The gaming industry is growing rapidly, with a predicted 3 billion users by 2027. As the market grows, the need for high-quality game art becomes paramount.

Game art not only improves the visual look of a game, but also plays a key role in capturing the attention of players. So, how do you ensure your game stands out?

The answer is simple: outsource to the best studios the whole game art process. While at first sight, it may seem difficult to choose a quality company in a large market.

Here are 5 key considerations to guide your decision:

1. Understand Your Project’s Needs

Before you start looking for a game art studio, you need to be clear about the requirements of the project.

This includes the game genre, desired art style, level of detail, and any specific technical considerations.

Are you looking for detailed character designs, unique environments, or specific animations?

Knowing these details will help you find a studio that aligns with your vision and can bring your ideas to life.

Example: If you’re developing a match-3 game, you might need a studio skilled in creating match-3 UI, puzzles, and game icons.

Look at the game icons, that RetroStyle Games made for match-3 mobile game.

2. Evaluate the Studio’s Epertise and Experience

A studio’s past projects can tell you a lot about their skills and style. Look for the quality of their work and the range of styles they’ve tackled.  

It’s essential that their artistic approach aligns with your game’s vision. Additionally, their experience in the gaming industry, especially in genres or styles similar to your project, can be a significant advantage.

If you come across a studio that has successfully worked on several top-rated adventure games and your project is an adventure game, this studio might be a good fit. Their experience in this genre suggests they understand the nuances and challenges specific to adventure games.

3. Check for Technical Tools and Expertise

The right studio should be equipped with the latest software tools and technologies for game development. Whether you need advanced 3D modeling, high-quality texturing, or realistic animations, the studio should have the expertise and tools to deliver.

Example: If you’re developing a game that requires realistic character movements, the studio should be proficient in using software like Maya or Blender for high-quality animations.

4. Assess the Complexity of Your Game Art Requirements

For games that require detailed and eye-catching artwork, it’s essential to opt for a specialized game art studio. Such studios have the skills and experience to produce high-quality visuals, from detailed characters to rich game environments.

Example: If your game is set in a medieval era, the studio should be capable of creating characters with detailed armor, weapons, and environments like castles or villages.

5. Budget and Financial Considerations

Before starting your search for a game art studio, determine how much you’re willing to spend. This will help you narrow down options and avoid studios that are out of your price range.

If you have a budget of $10,000 for game art, focus on studios that can provide quality work within this range.

Different studios offer various services at different price points. Make sure you understand what’s included in the quoted price. This could range from initial designs, revisions, to final renders.

Example: Studio A might offer character design for $500, while Studio B offers character design with three rounds of revisions for $600. Knowing these details can help you make a more informed decision. Sometimes, initial costs might be low, but there could be additional charges for revisions or updates. It’s essential to consider the long-term costs and not just the upfront fees.

Once you’ve shortlisted studios, discuss payment terms. Some might offer payment plans or discounts for bulk work. Ensure you’re comfortable with the payment terms before signing any contract.

Wrapping Up

Choosing the right game art outsourcing studio can make all the difference in your game’s success. By considering the factors mentioned above, you can ensure that your game not only looks great but also resonates with your target audience.