Side City Studios is celebrating its 10th year of production.
We are taking this opportunity to update our look with a new corporate signature and this new website.

A special section on the history of our studios highlights our major accomplishments over the past 10 years.

Enjoy!

It is now easier to contact us using the online form. Just click the Contact/How to reach us tab.

You can also send us your application for a specific job posting by filling out the online form in the Careers/Apply section.

• Production of pilots for television series and promotional videos.
• Online innovation with the virtual 3D series Manuela Gix. The media went wild!

• Production of games on CD-rom and intranet sites.
• Beginning of a longstanding partnership with Ingenio, a Loto-Québec subsidiary, and the implementation of an expertise in games of chance. Our games were marketed internationally and won several awards.

• The first virtual 3D worlds made their appearance on the Web with products related to popular television programs. Side City made full use of its expertise in this field, particularly with respect to virtual 3D characters.
• Production of video games for the Disney website.
• The partnership with Ingenio continued, with the production of CD-ROM games. We developed a new semi-3D approach for a mini-golf game using isometrics. It was a hit!

• The adventure continues with CD-ROM games: we used high-resolution photography and developed an expertise in radiosity renderings.
• Some CD-ROM games were adapted for online use and for various world markets; we implemented the production structure used to position, adapt and market the games.
• We continued to work in television production and were involved in several television advertisements.

• Launched into the world of console games: Xbox, Playstation and Game Cube.
• Namco was glad they chose Side City to produce Street Racing Syndicate, which made a big splash at the E3 (Electronic Entertainment Expo).

• Production of the highly anticipated console game Big Mutha Trucker 2 for Take II.
• Thanks to its expertise in the field of games of chance, Side City won the bid to revamp online Bingo for Loto-Québec.

• Start of production for video slot machine games, a new field of expertise.
• Our developers put the finishing touches on the Slotbuilder integration engine.
• Our online management tool, Side City Center, was launched.
• We designed and produced the FordVsChevy console game for Eutechnyx.
• We exported our online gaming expertise to Western Canada through new partnerships with other lottery corporations.

• Production projects involving slot machines broadened in scope; Side City began producing promotional teasers, bank of machines designs and architectural renderings for casinos. Our clientele extended over the border into the U.S.
• The need to create our own applications to produce special effects grew; the Side City Suite tool set was launched.
• Our virtual scenographic content was implemented in trendy bars in Old Montreal.
• Les Industries Fournier hired us to produce simulation and visualization videos for their engineering project.
• Groupe Jean Coutu selected us to develop, produce and implement a digital information and advertising signage product throughout its network and retail locations. Many other companies followed suit.

• The production of casino-type games extended into Europe; some of our products were positioned for Asia.
• We began producing high-definition motion graphics for plasma and progressive screens.
• We produced the document Grande Visite in high definition for museums.
• The City•Zen 3D character modeling software was finalized.
• Development of our expertise in digital cinema and opening of the HD postproduction room.

• Our studios doubled in size.
• Production of visuals for mechanical slot machines was added to our list of services.
• Development of our online gaming expertise for online casinos.
• We begin developing applications for the iPhone.

Artistic management and project development
Development, design and scripting
Storyboard and layout production
2D and 3D graphics production
3D virtual decor production
3D virtual character animation and production
3D Visualization and simulation
Editing and special effects
Post-production
Integration and programming

• Production of games of chance and casino products
• Video and television productions
• Digital scenography
• Digital motion graphics
• Digital signage
• Production of video games on console, PC or online
• Production of games for the iPhone
• Related online productions

Interactive console games

Slot machines
HD progressive-jackpot screens


Motion graphics for HD plasma screens

Prototyping

Architectural imaging

Bank of machines design
Casino interiors


Fittings and marketing

Slot glass and casino signage
Game-related components for printouts
Promotional brochures and catalogues


Promotional videos (teasers)


Localization of games
Clones
Adaptations for various markets
Localization

   



• Video and television productions


HD promotional, corporate and documentary videos
Television, generic and unique program intros
Video clip
Advertisements

   



• Digital scenography


Digital visual content
Interactive projection

   



• Digital cinema


Special effects
Colorization
Editing

   



• Digital signage


Content for local broadcast on PC, CD-rom, DVD or BlueRay
Content for network broadcast

   



• Production of video games on console, PC or online


Development and design of levels
Virtual environments
Character design and animation
Cinematics
Game interfaces
Integration with the engine
Promotional videos and marketing products

   



• Production of games for the iPhone


Casual games
Animated series
Interactive and non-interactive promotional products
Applications

   



• Related online products


Online games
Promotional sites

   

• Vision
• Mission
• Methodology

Games of chance for lottery corporations and casinos
High-definition (HD) interactive video and television production
Digital scenography
Digital cinema
Digital signage
Video games on console, PC or online
Games and applications for the iPhone
Related online products

City·Zen


City•Zen, whose intellectual property is owned by Side City, is a tool used to create 3D characters and is compatible with Autodesk Maya and 3ds Studio Max applications.

There are two reasons for developing our own character-modeling tool. First, we wanted to ensure that the characters we create accurately reflect human anatomy and thus are highly realistic for HD production purposes. We also require that the basic structure of the 3D meshing respond consistently to animation deformations, regardless of the proposed design. The multiple features of this tool proved to be so effective that we recorded a significant increase in productivity.

The existing models already in inventory, which were added to the bank as the projects progressed, provide us with infinite possibilities, including quickly producing characters, from the most realistic to the most fantastic. Over 100 facial expressions and phonemes are automatically integrated into the new model to accelerate production and guarantee the viability of the work.

The module used to construct the teeth and tongue enables us to add and fully animate the inside of the mouth according to different styles, from cartoon to the most realistic.

The automatic UV maps and textures module instantly applies textures to the entire character.

With the non-symmetry module, we can adjust the facial morphology for greater realism.

The module for building the skeleton and assigning joint points applies the deformation structure to the new model. This automatically determines the right proportion and proper positioning of joints. The general distribution of points is also applied automatically.

The points-distribution correction module correctly assigns the model envelope to obtain the right deformations during joint movement.

Hair and clothing are built by unit, depending on the use (or non-use) of clothing and hair simulations, and according to the Clothes or Hair technique used. Hair and clothing are nonetheless stored in a bank for re-use.

City•Zen speeds up character motion work. Since the models are built from a similar base, the animators have the same flexibility. Whether they are intended for gaming or HD projects, our characters always have the same quality, regardless of resolution.

City Suite


City Suite consists of a variety of tools developed to meet specific needs encountered during projects. They aim to boost efficiency and most often involve applications that simplify the work of graphic artists, whether it be performing repetitive tasks or adding features to our applications or production software.

Some of these more highly advanced applications come to be considered stand-alone software when all of their features enable a production project to be carried out from beginning to end.



Simul
This mathematical simulation and statistical compilation software compiles statistics on a large number of slot machine parts.

Slotbuilder


Slotbuilder is our integration software for games and our graphic engine. Developed entirely by our engineers, it is specially designed to program casino-type games, such as slot machines, bonus and progressive screens.

With its open architecture and modular design, we can integrate our games into our clients’ platforms by integrating them into the clients’ technologies, both land-based and online. Similarly to all game engines, Slotbuilder is constantly evolving. Even though it is a complete tool in its own right, new features are constantly being added to it. It enables complex bonuses to be integrated by simply adding new principles and patents.

This software is excellent for prototyping, integrating graphics and cloning games. It offers the possibility of generating executables for demonstration purposes at any time, regardless of the project’s progress. Slotbuilder’s intelligent features are intuitive and easy to use, and provide us with the advantage of being able to program games extremely quickly.

Slotbuilder easily manages:

Multiple screen formats as well as different image resolutions;
Games on multiple screens, including progressive screens;
Changes in the number of symbols, their features and the amount of their associated winnings;
The number of winning line combinations, static and animated;
Multiple names;
The number and frame rate of animations, and symbols used;
The number of bonus levels, progressive modes and community games;
The complexity and diversity of the bonuses;
Integration of 3D characters and their synchronization with game play;
Typographies with integrated character generator;
Multiple languages, positioning and market adaptations;
Animated number counters with different resolutions;
Winnings tables and menus;
Special effects;
Image overlay mode (plug-in);
3D in real time;
Integration of music and sound;
Projects and their nomenclature;
Demo modes and real-life simulations.

Side City Center


Side City Center is our online network communications centre, created and managed internally. It includes space reserved for our clients as well as our management tools. Whether our clients’ offices are halfway around the world or they travel overseas for business, they can access the centre and monitor their project.

Access to our highly secure network must be preauthorized and requires the use of security codes. Permissions are assigned to all users in order to block or enable access to certain features.

The interactive environment available to our clients enables them to not only exchange files, but also manage the graphics in production, whether they are images, image sequences or animation. Each element in production can be monitored in real time, from its development to its final state. Designs, storyboards, scenarios, technical edits, references, 3D models, animations, renderings and all other components are organized to enable full tracking.

Side City Center is a powerful validation tool that simplifies project monitoring, since it tracks approvals, change requests and technical specifications, versions, history and archives.

Our management and planning tools have been integrated into Side City Center to enable us to enter and process the following data:

All information related to projects and their production, such as their technical specifications:
Deadlines and priorities;
Allocation of resources;
Job description and assignment;
Time attributed to resources per project and activity sector;
Performance and progress reports;
Technical guidelines related to production processes.

Side City is looking for exemplary professionals without outstanding technical knowledge and artistic abilities. We select only experienced candidates who are multi-talented, passionate about their work and want to take their skills to the next level.

For creative positions, Side City will only consider candidates who have a degree in arts and solid design, illustration, sculpture and animation experience.

• remain at the top of their field;
• keep technical knowledge and artistic software skills up to date;
• constantly improve their productivity and evolve artistically with regard to their visual creations.

• 3D animator
• 3D modeller
• 3D graphic artist - compositing and 3D rendering
• 3D graphic artist - generalist
• Rigger
• Compositing and special effects artist
• Graphic designer
• Programmer - tools
• Programmer - games
• Programmer - integration
• Mathematician
• Designer - Illustrator
• Screenwriter
• Project manager
• Artistic director
• Technical director/3D production manager
• Technical/IT director

The animator brings characters and objects to life. A sense of rhythm, timing and motion is as important as striving for fluidity through mechanical and human movements. The incumbent must be proficient with 3D animation tools, have extensive experience in traditional animation and be familiar with rigging techniques. Knowledge of human anatomy is also essential.

• Discreet 3D Studio Max and/or Maya

The modeller builds complex and anatomical 3D models of characters, objects and environments. He/she is comfortable working with materials and textures, and has a natural desire to develop new techniques. The ideal 3D modeller has extensive experience in sculpture, design or architecture as well as strong observation skills and creativity, which he/she will use constantly/are used constantly in this position. Expert knowledge of modeling techniques and rigging is required. Knowledge of human anatomy is also essential.

• Discreet 3D Studio Max and/or Maya

• Z-Brush

The incumbent for 3D graphic artist is an accomplished 3D artist and will be responsible for compositing and rendering. He/she is responsible for choosing the shots and cameras. He/she has the skills required to create materials, and apply textures and lighting, and assists with special effects. Expert knowledge of compositing and Mental Ray tools is essential for this position.

• 3D Studio Max and/or Maya
• Mental Ray
• Photoshop
• After Effects and/or Combustion

• Nuke
• Final Cut Pro
• Motion
• Color
• Compressor

The 3D generalist graphic artist has expert knowledge of 3D production tools such as 3D Studio Max and Maya. He/she creates the decor elements and environments used in 3D scenes. The desired candidate has the necessary skills for modelling, creating materials, and applying textures and lighting. Extensive knowledge of 3D Studio Max plug-ins is desirable to help create special effects.

• 3D Studio Max and/or Maya

• Photoshop
• After Effects and/or Combustion

Using his/her modelling knowledge, the rigger creates the structure for 3D models, inserts skeletons, and creates deformations and facial expressions, as well as assigns envelopes. He/she is also responsible for preparing characters and objects, as well as their performance during the animation stage. The rigger works closely with the modeller and 3D animator.

• 3D Studio Max

The compositing and special effects artist has strong observation skills. He/she reproduces elements from nature, creates extremely realistic effects and adjusts lighting and renderings of different scenes. He/she assembles all the elements that make up the decor of the scene and is comfortable working with 3D software. Expert knowledge of compositing tools, camera tracking, procedural systems and particles is essential.

• Photoshop
• After Effects and/or Combustion
• Final Cut Pro
• Motion

• 3D Studio Max and/or Maya
• Nuke
• Color
• Compressor

As an accomplished illustrator, the graphic designer has extensive artistic training. He/she creates the game interfaces and menus. He/she is an expert at vectors and logo creation, and has a passion for typography. He/she creates the textures, decor elements and environments used in 3D scenes. He/she can also sometimes be asked to touch up high-resolution images for use in print or video. The ideal candidate has expert knowledge of Photoshop and Illustrator as well as a heightened sense of aesthetics.

• Photoshop
• Illustrator

• After Effects

The internal development tool programmer at Side City works closely with the graphic designers. He/she writes the code used to simulate the physical properties of objects as well as the code to generate textures, lighting, special effects and movement that is not included in traditional software.

Side City programmers work with the following languages and related tools: C#, C++, VB.NET, ASP.NET, AJAX, Java, JavaScript.

The game programmer is responsible for developing Slotbuilder, the Side City game integration software and graphics engine. He/she creates and documents the code enabling us to add our games to our clients’ platforms. He/she also writes source code to allow us to add new bonus principles to the current code while ensuring ongoing software stability.

Side City programmers work with the following languages and related tools: C#, C++, VB.NET, ASP.NET, AJAX, Java, JavaScript.

The integration programmer is responsible for creating the source code that enables us to add new bonus principles to Slotbuilder. He/she documents and integrates the code into the existing code and ensures that the software remains stable. He/she is also responsible for developing Side City Center, the online network communication centre at Side City. He/she creates new functions, optimizes the source code and ensures that the tools used by our clients and Side City artists work well and are ergonomic.

Side City programmers work with the following languages and related tools: C#, C++, VB.NET, ASP.NET, AJAX, Java, JavaScript.

The mathematician develops mathematical models for games of chance designed by Side City. He/she creates computer simulations, analyzes the mathematical models developed and ensures that they are implemented correctly. Working with programmers and the clients for whom the models are created, he/she develops the proof of concepts and feasibility. He/she participates actively in design team discussions and prototype development.

The ideal candidate holds a Bachelor’s degree in mathematics and has a thorough understanding of the probabilities related to games of chance.

The designer communicates through illustration: concepts, ideas, emotions, environments and feelings through the creation of decors, and natural, architectural and imaginary environments, as well as characters. We are looking for an accomplished illustrator whose portfolio demonstrates his/her gift for transferring proportions, perspectives, the human body and facial expressions onto paper. The ideal candidate’s classical training and realistic style are apparent in his/her images. Arts training and computer knowledge are essential for this position.

• Photoshop

• Illustrator

The screenwriter participates in all tasks related to game design and creates its structure. He/she also writes scripts for the numerous teasers created by Side City. In the field of games of chance, the screenwriter creates the concepts of the bonus sections and adapts our clients’ concepts, as needed. The screenwriter works closely with the mathematician at every step of the process of designing a new game. He/she is recognized for his/her attention to detail, writing style and impeccable written French.

Excellent knowledge of games of chance is necessary for this position.

Above all a seasoned graphic designer, the project manager works closely with the studio director and artistic director. He/she supervises and coordinates all stages of production. He/she organizes the teams’ work, manages staff schedules, resolves conflicts and aims to meet financial objectives. He/she has strong training and production skills as well as excellent knowledge of 3D animation.

• Microsoft Project
• Microsoft Excel
• Microsoft Word

In addition to creating actual images, the artistic director also ensures the artistic quality of the products created. He/she manages the stages of graphic element production and strives to comply with the graphic charter that he/she created. He/she works directly with clients to create concepts and acts as an expert advisor. He/she supervises the team of graphic designers.

The technical director/3D production manager is above all a seasoned and accomplished 3D graphic artist with extensive production experience. His/her main responsibility is to ensure that Side City stays on the top of its game. He/she must keep his/her technical knowledge and artistic software skills up to date in order to establish and implement work methods and processes. He/she is responsible for the technical shooting scripts for the projects and works closely with the studio director and artistic director.

• 3D Studio Max and/or Maya
• After Effects and/or Combustion
• Photoshop

• Final Cut Pro
• Motion
• Nuke
• Color

The technical/IT director ensures the implementation as well as the smooth operation of the computers and network. He/she maintains and continuously updates the Side City websites. He/she administers the hardware acquisition budgets and is responsible for choosing technological tools. The technical director has an excellent understanding of the field of 2D and 3D production.