As we approach the end of another remarkable year, Mineloader Studios takes a moment to reflect on the milestones, challenges, and triumphs that have shaped our journey. This festive season, we’re celebrating the passion and dedication of our team, whose talent is the foundation of everything we create. Among these inspiring individuals is Xu Zhen, one of our co-founders, whose 21-year journey at Mineloader is as inspiring as it is impressive. In this exclusive interview, Xu Zhen shares insights into his career, challenges, and vision for the game art industry.
Q: What does your role entail at Mineloader Studios?
As a founder and art supervisor, I’ve been fortunate to shape the creative direction of our projects for over two decades. My focus lies in leading the game art business and occasionally supervising large-scale game art projects. It’s a rewarding role that allows me to blend leadership with my passion for visual storytelling.
Q: Can you tell us about your background before Co-Founding Mineloader Studios?
My journey began at the Academy of Fine Arts, where I majored in oil painting. After graduation, I worked at KOEI in Japan and China, diving into the world of game production. Later, I joined KONAMI’s Shanghai branch to help establish their game art production team as an art producer. It was during this time that I realized the potential of collaborative art teams, eventually leading to the founding of Mineloader.
Q: What key milestones define your time at Mineloader Studios?
There are so many moments I hold dear. My working experience in Japanese company, collaborating with Eidos Interactive on iconic titles like *Hitman*, *Tomb Raider*, and *Kane & Lynch* was a game-changer. It was a steep learning curve but also a pivotal period in redefining our production processes.
Another significant milestone was pioneering our turnkey solutions strategy. It shifted how we approached business, emphasizing collaborative partnerships. Ultimately, every day at Mineloader feels like a highlight. Each effort contributes to the company’s growth, and I aim to create “highlight” moments not just for myself but for everyone involved.
Q: What skills do you believe are vital for aspiring game artists today?
A strong foundation in art and aesthetics is indispensable. While technical skills and tools are critical, they’re relatively easier to learn. Artistic literacy—understanding and observing the world—is a lifelong journey. Artists with both technical mastery and creative depth can achieve outstanding results. For companies, blending fine arts with technical expertise has become increasingly valuable, opening opportunities for diverse talent to thrive.
Q: Looking back, is there anything you would have done differently?
Not much, to be honest. Our priority has always been creating exceptional work rather than chasing rapid growth. Many companies excel while expanding, but our focus remains rooted in quality, passion, and core values. If I could start over, I’d follow the same path—prioritizing excellence and authenticity over speed.
Q: What first drew you to the gaming industry, and has that passion evolved?
I was introduced to CG in 1993 while studying fine arts. Hollywood films like *Jurassic Park* and *Terminator* sparked my fascination with special effects and visual storytelling. Though I initially aspired to work in film, opportunities in China were scarce, leading me to the gaming industry. Over time, as game technology advanced and production techniques blurred the lines between gaming and cinema, my passion has only grown. I believe the two industries will continue to converge in the future.
Q: What advice would you give to someone aspiring to enter the game art industry?
Above all, love the industry. Passion fuels perseverance and growth, helping you overcome challenges and find fulfillment. Dedication and enthusiasm open doors to creativity and success—qualities that truly define a career in this field.
Xu Zhen’s journey encapsulates the spirit of Mineloader Studios: a blend of passion, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. As we look forward to another year filled with opportunities and innovation, we want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to our team, clients, and partners for their trust and collaboration. May this holiday season bring joy and inspiration, and may the coming year be as bright as the stories we create together. Happy holidays from all of us at Mineloader Studios!