Side City Studios is celebrating its 10th year of production.

This seemed like the perfect 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 then ever to contact us using the online form. Just click the Contact/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 3D virtual 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 emergence of a rapidly growing expertise in games of chance. Our games were marketed internationally and won several awards.

• The first 3D virtual worlds made their appearance on the Web with products spun off from popular television programs. Side City took full advantage of our expertise in this field, especially with 3D virtual characters.
• Production of online video games for Disney.
• The partnership with Ingenio continued, with the production of games on CD-ROM. We developed a new semi-3D approach for a mini-golf game using isometrics. It was a hit!

• The adventure continued with CD-ROM games: we used high-resolution photography and honed our skills in radiosity renderings.
• Some CD-ROM games were adapted for online use and for various world markets; we established the production structure used to position, adapt and market the games.
• We continued our television production work, creating several television commercials.

• Launched into the world of console games: Xbox, PlayStation and GameCube.
• Namco was proud to have chosen 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 designing 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 area of achievement.
• 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 extended 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, designs for banks of machines and architectural renderings for casinos. Our client base expanded over the border into the U.S.
• We increasingly felt the need to create our own applications for special effects and launched the City Suite tool set.
• Our virtual scenographic content was a success in trendy bars in Old Montreal.
• Les Industries Fournier engaged 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 documentary Grande Visite in high definition for museums.
• The City•Zen 3D character modeling software was finalized.
• We further developed our expertise in digital cinema and opened the HD postproduction room.

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

Site map

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

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

Interactive console games

Slot machines
HD progressive-jackpot screens


Motion graphics for HD plasma screens

Prototyping

Architectural imaging

Design of banks of machines
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 clips
Advertisements

   



• Virtual scenography


Digital visual content
Interactive projection

   



• Digital cinema


Special effects
Colorization
Editing

   



• Digital signage


Content for local broadcast on PC, CD-ROM, DVD or Blu-ray
Content for network broadcast

   



• Production of video games on console, PC and online


Concept and design of levels
Virtual environments
Character creation and animation
Kinematics
Game interfaces
Integration with the engine
Promotional videos and marketing products

   



• Production of iPhone applications


Casual games
Anime 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
Visual scenography
Digital cinema
Digital signage
Video games on console, PC and online
Games and applications for the iPhone
Related online products

City·Zen


City•Zen, the intellectual property of Side City, is a tool used to create 3D characters and is compatible with Autodesk Maya and 3ds Studio Max software.

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

The models already in inventory, which were added to the bank as 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, which accelerates production and guarantees 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.

Clothing and hair are built by unit, depending on the use (or non-use) of clothing and hair simulations, or according to the Clothes or Hair technique used. Hair and clothing are 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 always have the same latitude and flexibility. Whether they are intended for gaming or HD projects, and regardless of resolution, our characters are always of the same high quality.

City Suite


City Suite consists of a variety of tools developed to meet specific needs encountered during projects. They increase efficiency and are typically applications that simplify the work of graphic artists, whether performing repetitive tasks or adding functionalities to our applications or production software.

Some of these more highly advanced applications develop into stand-alone software when their many functionalities 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 games our integration software and our graphic engine. Developed entirely by our engineers, it was 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. As with 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 makes it possible to generate executables for demonstration purposes at any time, regardless of the project’s progress. Intuitive and easy to use, Slotbuilder’s intelligent functionalities give us the advantage of extreme speed in programming games.

Slotbuilder easily manages:

Multiple screen formats as well as different image resolutions;
Games on multiple screens, including progressives;
Changes in the number of symbols, their functionality and 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, localization 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 communications center, created and managed internally. It features 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 center anytime 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 to block or enable access to certain functions.

The interactive environment available to our clients enables them not only to exchange files, but also to manage the graphics in production, whether they are images, image sequences or animations. 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, 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 by project and activity sector;
Performance and progress reports;
Technical guidelines related to production processes.

Side City is looking for exemplary professionals with 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;
• maintain leading-edge technical knowledge and artistic software skills;
• constantly improve their productivity and evolve artistically in their visual creations.

• 3D animator
• 3D modeler
• 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
• Art 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 in mechanical and human movements. The position demands proficiency with 3D animation tools, extensive experience in traditional animation and knowledge of rigging techniques. Knowledge of human anatomy is also essential.

• 3ds Max and/or Maya

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

• 3ds Max and/or Maya

• ZBrush

This individual is a 3D artist accomplished in 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.

• 3ds 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 3ds Max and Maya. He/she creates the decor elements and environments used in 3D scenes. The successful candidate is skillful in modeling, creating materials, and applying textures and lighting. Extensive knowledge of 3ds Max plug-ins is desirable to help create special effects.

• 3ds Max and/or Maya

• Photoshop
• After Effects and/or Combustion

Using his/her modeling 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, and for their performance during the animation stage. The rigger works closely with the modeler and 3D animator.

• 3ds 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

• 3ds 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, 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. The graphic designer 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 integrate our games on 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 integrates and documents 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 communications center at Side City. He/she creates new functionalities, 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 and gambling 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 clients, he/she develops the proof of concepts and feasibility of the games. The mathematician 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 and gambling.

The designer communicates through illustration: concepts, ideas, emotions, atmospheres and feelings by creating decors, and natural, architectural and imaginary environments, as well as characters. The portfolio of this accomplished illustrator demonstrates a 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 has a reputation for attention to detail, superior writing style and impeccable written French.

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

Above all a seasoned graphic designer, the project manager works closely with the studio director and art director. He/she supervises and coordinates all stages of production. He/she organizes the teams’ work, manages staff schedules, resolves conflicts and works 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 images personally, the art director ensures the artistic quality of all the products created. He/she manages all stages of graphic element production ensures that the graphic norms he/she created are respected. The art director 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. The primary responsibility is to keep Side City on the leading edge. He/she must stay at the forefront of technical knowledge and artistic software to establish and implement work methods and processes. He/she is responsible for project shooting scripts and works closely with the studio director and art director.

• 3ds 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 technology selection. The technical director has an excellent understanding of the field of 2D and 3D production.