Gameplay Animator

Rare Castle is an independent game studio driven by a bold, transformative vision: to create games that heal. we believe games can do more than entertain — they can mend the soul, cultivate calm, and inspire hope. While horror games often thrill us with fear, we imagine something different: cinematic, story-driven experiences that guide players toward self-discovery, resilience, and emotional well-being. Our games are crafted with the same meticulous artistry as the most gripping horror titles — but instead of nightmares, we create spaces for reflection, growth, and inner peace, all brought to life with stunning, photorealistic visuals. At Rare Castle, we are redefining what games can be. Join us as we build immersive worlds that spark curiosity, soothe the spirit, and leave a lasting, positive impact. Responsibilities Create high-quality gameplay animations that feel responsive, fluid, and immersive, enhancing core mechanics and elevating the player experience. Collaborate closely with the Game Designer and Art Director to ensure animations clearly support gameplay goals and reinforce the emotional tone of the game. Implement and iterate animations directly in Unreal Engine using Animation Blueprints and real-time tools to achieve seamless integration with gameplay systems. Work with advanced character systems, including MetaHumans, to deliver expressive, believable movement that feels great to control. Contribute to the development and refinement of animation workflows, balancing artistic vision with gameplay responsiveness and technical performance. Solve gameplay animation challenges creatively to ensure smooth transitions, clear visual feedback, and strong player connection. Actively participate in playtesting and iterative design discussions, providing feedback and proposing animation improvements that strengthen moment-to-moment gameplay. Document animation processes and share best practices to support and inspire current and future team members. Requirements Strong portfolio showcasing high-quality gameplay animations with a focus on responsiveness, fluidity, and player feedback. Solid understanding of animation fundamentals — timing, weight, anticipation, and how these elements impact gameplay feel. Experience creating and implementing animations in a real-time engine (Unreal Engine experience preferred), including Animation Blueprints. Familiarity with advanced character systems such as MetaHumans and their integration into gameplay. Ability to work collaboratively with game designers, technical artists, and other team members to achieve cohesive, player-focused results. Strong problem-solving skills for addressing technical and artistic challenges in gameplay animation. Good communication skills and a willingness to give and receive feedback in a creative, iterative environment. Passion for creating story-driven, emotionally impactful experiences that connect deeply with players. Nice to have Experience working on shipped games or personal projects with a strong gameplay focus. Knowledge of procedural or dynamic animation techniques to enhance gameplay responsiveness. Interest in psychological, thriller, or narrative-focused games. What We Offer Creative Freedom : The chance to shape the visual storytelling of a unique, cinematic indie game and leave your artistic fingerprint on every scene. A Collaborative Environment : Work directly with a passionate founder and a small, dedicated team that values experimentation, curiosity, and open dialogue. Professional Growth : Build your portfolio with high-quality, real-time lighting work, and deepen your skills in a supportive, artist-driven setting. Flexible, Remote Work : Contribute from anywhere in the world on a schedule that fits your life. A Meaningful Mission : Be part of a studio redefining what games can be — creating experiences that heal, inspire, and leave a lasting emotional impact. Position Type: Volunteer Location(s): Remote #J-18808-Ljbffr Rare Castle