Art Lead

Play of Battle is looking for an experienced Art Lead to spearhead the artistic vision of our new IP — a modern-day Grand Strategy / RTS game with a unique tone and style. We're seeking someone with a strong creative voice, leadership ability, and a deep understanding of visual storytelling in games.
This is a rare opportunity to help shape the entire artistic direction of a major title — from early concept art to final in-game visuals.

Check out more: Game Presentation

What You'll Do:

• Define and uphold a cohesive artistic vision for the game (visual style, tone, atmosphere).
• Collaborate closely with the design, tech, and production teams to align visuals with gameplay and narrative goals.
• Lead, inspire, and mentor a multidisciplinary art team — including 2D/3D artists, concept artists, animators, and VFX specialists.
• Actively participate in the creation of key art, moodboards, visual references, and style guides.
• Supervise the full 3D art pipeline: from modeling and texturing to rigging and final engine integration.
• Set and maintain benchmarks for stylized, gritty visuals blending realism with futuristic aesthetics.
• Provide clear, actionable feedback and ensure the delivery of high-quality assets that align with the game’s vision.
• Support the recruitment, development, and growth of the art team.
• Optimize visual assets in collaboration with tech artists to meet performance requirements across platforms.

Requirements:

• Minimum 3 years as an Lead Artist in the games industry, with at least 5 years total industry experience.
• At least one AAA - title shipped.
• A portfolio demonstrating a strong artistic sense in stylized and/or realistic environments, characters, and props.
• Deep understanding of visual storytelling, worldbuilding, and mood setting.
• Expertise in 2D and 3D tools, such as Photoshop, Blender, ZBrush, Maya, Substance.
• Experience working across disciplines with design, animation, and technical art.
• Excellent visual documentation and communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Proven leadership and mentoring skills in a production environment.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to meet deadlines.
• Fluent in English, with the ability to work in a fast-paced, international environment.

Bonus Points For:

• Strong passion for strategy games, especially Grand Strategy.
• Experience with Unity engine.
• Experience in setting art direction for new IPs.
• A hands-on approach to creating high-level visual assets.

What We Offer:

• Competitive salary starting at PLN 20k + VAT
• The chance to shape the artistic identity of a bold and thought-provoking strategy game.
• A collaborative, ambitious team with deep experience in game development.
• A flexible contract model (B2B)
• The ability to directly impact how our game is seen, felt, and remembered.

*Important note: this work is onsite only! Should you be looking for hybrid or remote work, please do not apply. *