Greetings,
I posted the following project summary on Gamasutra.com and received a good response however, you can never have too many applicants 
Be prepared for a long and interesting read
Enjoy… 
Quick Summary :
We are currently in search of one or more dedicated graphics artists for a virtual ecosystem simulation with advanced AI creatures that can perform simple reasoning ( but not simple when compared to a FPS/RPG etc. bot ), can learn, communicate and breed. Payment is a percentage of revenue.
General Project Information :
This simulation will consist of one large virtual world ( several kilometres square in area ) with dense, beautiful plant growth and varied terrain with water courses and a stunning sky. This virtual world will be complete with realistic, believable environment progression and evolution : trees will bend in the simulated wind, water will ripple, plants will grow in fertile soil conditions etc.
However, while this environment will be fascinating and visually beautiful - the central core of this ecosystem will be the various creatures who reside in this virtual world. These creatures will have varying degrees of artificial intelligence, ranging from average to extremely advanced. These creatures will seek to reside and survive in this virtual world.
In effect, a virtual terrarium.
The player will be responsible, to an extent, to maintain a degree of ecological balance and the well-being of the various creatures. Not an easy task
We Require :
In order to realize this vision, we require one or more graphics artists with the following characteristics and abilities :
- Solid knowledge, understanding and experience in modeling low-poly to intermediate poly 3D models ( expected polycounts of in-game models < 50 polygons to ~ 4000 polygons maximum ).
- Solid knowledge, understanding and experience in model animation. Animations will range from the swaying of trees to creature facial movement.
- Solid knowledge, understanding and experience in preferably 3D Studio Max and/or Maya - another 3D graphic package may be substituted ( i.e. Lightwave ) for Studio Max and Maya.
- Solid knowledge, understanding and experience in using Photoshop or another 2D graphics program to create textures / skins for level and models.
- Solid knowledge, understanding and experience in developing sprites for use with a Level Of Detail system i.e. creating tree sprites as “stand-ins” for 3D models of trees, at long distances.
- Must be able to formulate and develop ( in cooperation with the level designer ) in accordance with a unique " cartoony " or " semi-cartoony " visual style
- Knowledge of world creation is recommended but not necessary.
In terms of personal characteristics :
- Able to work with varying amounts of overseeing direction.
- Must posses a vivid imagination and creativity.
- Must have good communication skills.
- Must posses a strong work ethic and strong fulfillment of project tasks within time constraints.
- Are fascinated with unique simulation games and can integrate well with the team.
- Minimum of 10 hours per week availability.
- Ability to learn and use new design tools ( if necessary ).
***Please note that if you do meet most of the above characteristics or abilities but not all, we encourage you to apply, but please note those areas where you do not meet the requirements in your e-mail.
Your Task :
As an artist you will assist and cooperate with the level designer in realizing a rich graphical world.
Specifically, you will be responsible for :
- Developing 3D models, textures, sprites and/or animations ( as applicable ) for the environment i.e boulders, stumps, trees, bushes, flowers, shrubs, water meshes.
- Developing 3D models, textures, sprites and/or animations ( as applicable ) for creature items i.e basic tools. There will be ~25-30 basic items.
- Developing the 3D models, textures, and animations of 3-5 main creatures and 5-6 non-main creatures.
- General 2D graphics work including in-game panels.
Time Constraints :
The simulation is being worked on for an early November release date. Applicants must be able to work to meet this schedule.
Team Dynamics :
We are a small team consisting of myself as programmer and a level designer. Although we are small we have made significant progress ( especially in code, which has progressed to ~80% of that needed for the AI : the most complex and ambitious area of the simulation ). We have a close, informal working relationship and have been working on various other projects for approximately a year. We will cooperate through a forum, e-mail ( mostly ) and if necessary instant messenger.
Please note that while there will be oversight by myself, and harmonious cooperation between the artist(s) and the level designer, there will remain significant creative freedom - there are no concept sketches unless you want to develop it and use it.
We intend to remain as a small, talented team.
Compensation :
Unfortunately, I am unable to compensate team members up-front. Instead, every team member will receive an equal portion of royalties from the sale of the simulation.
To Apply :
We encourage you to apply, if you are interested in the project, in the position and have the necessary characteristics and abilities ( as stated above ) .
Please submit a intermediate-sized paragraph ( by PM or via e-mail ) outlining your reasons for wanting to join this project along with your resume ( and CV if applicable ) ; a point by point confirmation that you meet the required characteristics and abilities ; contact information ; a list of applicable graphics software that you own ; and of course : links to samples of your work ( your portfolio ). A portfolio of artwork directly relevant to the project requirements would be ideal i.e. images of low-poly trees.
Please note that we require samples of animation work ( in an .avi or other format so that we may view your animations ).
Thank-you for your time and consideration - and your application
