Austin Bolliger
Penshurst
Summary
A lifelong passion for video games has been the driving force behind my career journey. I got my start in the workforce with a retail role at EB Games as one of the first team members at the Pitt St Mall location (Sydney's flagship store), where I built confidence and developed strong customer service skills. After years of study, I later pursued a career in game development, working in the industry for a number of years, becoming experienced with 3D tools and game engines. Eventually, I took my love for gaming to YouTube, where I began editing and producing video game reviews for 'Skill Up' - which has since become the largest game review channel in Australia and recognised globally (having now accrued over 1,000,000 subscribers). I now continue to hone my creative and technical skills - always looking for ways to further improve upon my content creation and storytelling.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
Work History
Senior Sales Associate
EB Games Sydney
06.2016 - 09.2017
- Consistently met or exceeded sales objectives.
- Analyzed sales performance data to identify opportunities and develop targeted improvement strategies.
- Enhanced client satisfaction through personalized solutions for concerns.
- Cultivated a collaborative work environment that supported individual achievement goals.
- Trained junior sales associates on effective selling techniques and relationship building practices.
3D Artist
Mode Games
02.2018 - 09.2018
- Created stylized game-ready characters and environments tailored for mobile, utilizing Maya, Substance Painter, and Photoshop.
- Worked closely with concept artist and animator to develop assets consistent with game’s artistic vision.
- Developed Unity particle effects and trails to improve gameplay visuals.
- Designed levels within Unity that elevate player engagement and enjoyment.
3D Generalist & Technical Animator
Spectre Studios
02.2019 - 03.2020
- Utilized Autodesk Maya for modelling, rigging, and animating intricate 3D assets.
- Implemented advanced rigging solutions for characters and props using custom controls.
- Integrated 3D characters and models into Unreal Engine 4.
- Interpreted concept art to design innovative virtual characters, environments, and props.
- Delivered photorealistic textures with Substance Painter and Designer for consistent asset quality.
- Facilitated feedback sessions among team members to enhance communication and project outcomes.
- Enhanced visual storytelling through strategic camera placement, composition, and animation during layout phase.
- Collaborated with artists, animators, and programmers to ensure timely project delivery.
Senior Video Producer & Game Reviewer
Skill Up Productions
02.2020 - Current
- Produced and edited engaging YouTube videos to inform audiences on new video game releases.
- Assist in writing and editing our weekly games industry news show, This Week In Videogames.
- Authored reviews and blogs for Patreon subscribers to enhance community engagement.
- Applied advanced editing techniques to improve storytelling and visual dynamics.
- Refined audio mixing processes to elevate project tone and overall quality.
- Established video branding guidelines to maintain visual consistency across platforms.
- Mentored junior team members in video production best practices to foster skill development.
- Streamlined workflows through effective project management tools, increasing productivity.
Education
Certificate II - Creative Industries (Media)
Academy of Interactive Entertainment
Certificate III - Media (Game Design)
Academy of Interactive Entertainment
Advanced Diploma - Professional Game Development (Game Art & Animation)
Academy of Interactive Entertainment
Higher School Certificate -
Freshwater Senior Campus
12.2016
Skills
- Customer service
- Sociable personality
- Extensive video game industry knowledge
- General passion for video games
- Comprehensive computer skills
- Fostering teamwork
- Critical thinking and problem-solving
- Efficient time management
Accomplishments
- Played a pivotal role in the growth of over 500,000 subscribers for the Skill Up YouTube channel since employment.
- Nominated for 'Best Game Reviewer' at Samsung's IT Journalism Awards 2025.
Referrals
- Jonathon Wong, Game Artist / Former Mentor, Phone: 0404 970 139
- Elizabeth Kollaras, EB Games Sydney Store Manager, Phone: 0401 826 283
- Rick Pearce, Spectre Studios CEO, Phone: 0406 759 767
Timeline
Senior Video Producer & Game Reviewer
Skill Up Productions
02.2020 - Current
3D Generalist & Technical Animator
Spectre Studios
02.2019 - 03.2020
3D Artist
Mode Games
02.2018 - 09.2018
Senior Sales Associate
EB Games Sydney
06.2016 - 09.2017
Certificate III - Media (Game Design)
Academy of Interactive Entertainment
Advanced Diploma - Professional Game Development (Game Art & Animation)
Academy of Interactive Entertainment
Higher School Certificate -
Freshwater Senior Campus
Certificate II - Creative Industries (Media)
Academy of Interactive Entertainment
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