Preparing Character Animations for DOOM: The Dark Ages
Skai Chow shared his journey and favorite animation created for the game DOOM: The Dark Ages, highlighting how his passion for the series helped him join id Software.
Early Animation Foundations
Skai began studying animation from 2014 to 2017 at Singapore Polytechnic. During 2017-2019, he served in the military and simultaneously worked on an animatronic performance for a short film titled The Mysterious Lai Teck, showcased at several international film festivals.
Further Studies and Industry Experience
From 2019 to 2020, Skai attended Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD). During a one-year break amid the COVID pandemic, he worked as a Junior Animator at Tiny Island Productions. There, he animated for TV shows such as DreamWorks’s Gabby’s Dollhouse and Doug Unplugs, where the fast-paced production taught him how to animate quickly to meet client deadlines.
Advancing Animation Skills
Skai resumed studies at SCAD in 2021 and, in 2022, earned a Summer Apprenticeship with XBOX Game Studios, interning at 343 Industries (Halo Studios). His work on Halo Infinite exposed him to motion capture technology and the standards for AAA-quality animation.
Professional Growth
After completing his studies in 2023, Skai rejoined 343 Industries as a contractor for a year, contributing to the multiplayer content of Halo Infinite.
"I started my animation foundations in 2014-2017 at Singapore Polytechnic, and served the military for two years between 2017-2019. During that time, I also worked on a side gig where I animated for an animatronic performance for a short film called 'The Mysterious Lai Teck' that was shown at a few international film festivals."
"My experiences here really taught me how to animate fast due to the quick turnover rate we had to pump those animations out for our client."
"While working on Halo Infinite, I learned more about motion capture and the requirements of high-quality AAA animations."
Author’s summary: Skai Chow’s animation career blends formal education, practical experience, and passion for gaming, leading to significant roles in high-profile projects like DOOM and Halo.