Hello, my name is David and I am looking for a pixel artist on my solo indie game project. I have 15 years AA experience in the gaming industry and am putting this together to be published and distributed on physical media. Although I've made good headway on the project on my own, it’s now time to expand the team and bring in an awesome creative pixel guru. This could be you!
This is a remote, short-term contract role suited to someone who is excited about working within the strict but creative limitations of classic handheld hardware.
What you’ll do
- Review and refine concept pixel artwork to GB platform standards, ensuring a consistent and evocative style.
- Create character sprites (side view / overworld / cutscene portraits) and environmental tilesets within Game Boy restrictions (2–4 colors per palette, 8×8 / 8×16 tiles).
- Contribute UI mockups and polish in line with retro hardware feel.
- Propose creative visual solutions to convey mood and narrative within tight resolution and memory limits.
- (Bonus) Help guide best practices for tile/palette management in GB Studio or other retro pipelines.
Project
A mystery-rich adventure spanning several timelines. Side-scrolling and sombre. Control 5 characters as you discover the secrets of a property in rural Pennsylvania.
The game is being built in GB Studio and targeted for original hardware and cartridge release, which means assets must adhere to authentic Game Boy constraints.
Skills & requirements
- Experience making pixel art for games (personal or professional — jam projects count).
- Animation experience (walk cycles, cutscene flourishes, ambient effects).
- Comfort working with limited palettes, tile sets, and retro resolution (160×144).
- Strong sense of atmosphere and ability to adapt character designs across eras.
- Clear communication and ability to iterate quickly with feedback.
Nice to have
- Familiarity with GB Studio workflows.
- An interest in narrative games, survival themes, or gothic/retro aesthetics.
Contract details
- Part-time, short-term contract (~2 months)
- Compensation: low, it’s a labour of love, but negotiable with royalties.
- Potential for future projects in the same line up.
How to apply
Please submit:
- A link to your portfolio and/or relevant pixel art projects.
- 2–3 sample pieces that showcase retro or limited-palette work, with a brief note on why you feel they fit this project.
- (Optional) Any experience with GB Studio, Game Boy development, or retro limitations you’d like to highlight.