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| Next Level Games is currently looking for new talent to join its Vancouver-based team. |
By Jon Scarr
Next Level Games has opened two new positions for Prop Artist/Animators at its downtown Vancouver office. We’ve seen word from the studio’s talent team that they’re looking to grow their ranks, which is a big deal for anyone following their work. While the studio's been quiet since the final updates for Mario Strikers: Battle League, these new roles suggest a project's moving deeper into the production phase.
The job involves a mix of 3D modelling, rigging, and animation using Maya. Unlike character animators who focus on heroes or enemies, these roles focus on the interactive elements of the environment. You'll see their work in how objects react to you, from breaking crates to moving machinery within a level. It's a technical role that requires a balance between artistic style and making sure everything runs well on the latest hardware, especially after the recent Nintendo Switch 2 handheld mode boost.
Context for the Next Nintendo Project
The timing of these hires is interesting because of the current software lineup for Nintendo. We’ve already seen how games like Mario Kart World have helped the console’s momentum, and now the focus is shifting to what’s next. While there haven't been specific leaks tied to these job postings, there's been plenty of talk regarding what’s coming next for the Nintendo Switch 2. With The Super Mario Galaxy Movie set to launch on April 1, 2026, and Fox McCloud confirmed to appear, there’s been significant chatter regarding a potential Star Fox revival.
Next Level Games has a 20-year history of handling major Nintendo franchises. They've built an incredible pedigree with titles like Super Mario Strikers, Mario Strikers Charged, Punch-Out!!, and Luigi’s Mansion: Dark Moon. You might also remember their work on Metroid Prime: Federation Force and Luigi’s Mansion 3.
Because the studio's a wholly owned subsidiary, their resources are dedicated entirely to first-party development. This aligns with the strategy the Nintendo President discussed regarding software support for the new hardware. Seeing them add specific environment-focused talent suggests they’re building a world that requires a high level of interactivity, which has been a staple of their work in the past. It’s a trend we’ve seen recently in the Nintendo Switch 2 edition of Super Mario Bros. Wonder, where the environment is just as much a character as Mario and Luigi are.
Next Level Games Preparing for Future Nintendo Releases
Hiring for "Prop Artist/Animators" usually happens when a game's layout and core routines are already established. At this stage, developers are often focused on filling the world with the assets you interact with during gameplay. By adding two people to this specific department, the studio's ensuring that the environmental style matches the high standards of their previous Nintendo releases.
We haven't heard an official announcement from the Vancouver team in quite some time, but staffing up in the art department's a sign that things are progressing behind the scenes. Whether they're returning to the Luigi’s Mansion franchise or taking on a different Nintendo property, the quality of their environmental work's always been an important part of the experience.
We'll be watching for any official reveals as the industry prepares for the next wave of titles on the Nintendo Switch 2, especially as Nintendo continues to map out its first-party lineup through 2026.
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