There are a number of different animators working on Mafia II – what does being the lead animator of MoCap entail on a daily basis?

Most of my work lies in communication with lead animators, actors and the organization of motion capture sessions. The key thing I am responsible for is the quality of the MoCap data and that it is delivered on time.

What are you doing to make the game look different, better, more distinct than any in the past?

We use modern technology. A good example of this is the optical system VICON. It helps us to record the movements of the actors in more realistic way than ever before. In the past we used a magnetic system, which wasn’t nearly as good.

How do you capture movement so that it is realistic and diverse?

We try to build and organize scenes in the way that allows the actors to move as naturally as possible. We don’t want any artificial movements. We also have to keep the actors in the ideal capture space. That can be very difficult sometimes. We also use realistic models of utilities (such as guns) so that actors really carry things made of actual material in its actual size and weight.

What got you interested in this kind of animation?

The work is varied. I meet a lot of new people. There is always the possibility to use new and better software. And what I really appreciate is that no matter what the actor we are capturing looks like, the final look of the character is our job!

Are there any games, or other works, that give you inspiration?

I really like PIXAR animations, I also watch animated cartoons a lot and of course I sometimes play games and follow new technology. My biggest inspiration is always the final piece of my work. I am always looking for mistakes and ways to eliminate them in future projects.

Are you any of the characters? Will we see any of your personal movements in the game?

Well… I was a dead donkey once. So I didn’t actually move! I also was a jailor. I’m always some unimportant roles. We have actual actors for important roles!

Source: 2K Games