d3t welcomes Matthew Bates, Associate Producer
24th Oct 2023
Tell us a bit of information about your experience/career background?
I started out undertaking an apprenticeship in 3D art, which was later followed by me attending university for a course in 3D art, where I was able to further my skill set.
During the Covid pandemic I worked on a range of freelance projects, which eventually lead me to an Assistant Producer role at the company I was finding work through. Initially I took the role as something more secure than freelance work, with the aim of returning to art. However, after a few months in the role, I noticed that I wasn’t missing the art side of the industry but was instead enjoying managing the projects much more. From there I decided to continue along that career path. I’ve now managed projects from indie games all the way to Netflix films and have loved every moment of it.
Although I realised that I really wanted to get back into what I loved managing the most, games, and d3t is the perfect opportunity for me to do that.
Why d3t?
I first heard about d3t when I was around 19 working on my apprenticeship, and after doing some more research into the studio it seemed like a great place to be.
Since then, I’ve been working on getting into the games industry, whilst also following the progress of the studio. I’ve known a few people join the studio in the meantime, and everyone who has loves it there. Primarily because of the range of projects they are working on, combined with the studio’s culture. Ultimately, from a work point of view, it seems like it can’t be beat.
Therefore, when the opportunity to apply came up, there was no chance I wasn’t going in for it!
What do you love about games?
My favourite thing about games is seeing how creative it allows people, teams, and communities to be. I recently found out about a solo dev, Pat Naoum, who has traditionally hand painted an entire game. I’d never even considered this a possibility, but he’s done it all on his own.
I also love seeing what developers and teams can come up with, whether it’s a crazy game concept or a unique approach to its development. I think this freedom makes it such an interesting and constantly entertaining hobby and industry.
What games are you currently playing, and what is your favourite game?
Currently I’ve decided I’m not stressed enough…so I’m revisiting the Soulsborne series. Mainly I’m battling with Sekiro, as I’ve not actually played this yet. In between the painful Sekiro sessions I’m mixing in a bit of Elden Ring, which I’ve had to start again because I got lost in my original run. I’m also looking forward to throwing Lies of P into the mix at some point.
As for a favourite game, it’s got to be Crash Bandicoot and that’s definitely not just for the nostalgia of it. Yes, I played the remake and either 5-year-old me was a next level gamer, or they made it harder intentionally. I’m leaning towards the latter.
Do you have any fun facts or hobbies?
Right now, I’m really into karting, running, the gym, and redecorating as much of my house as possible (not sure if that’s a hobby or a problem at this point).
I’ve also been climbing/bouldering for a couple of years now. I’ve not managed to venture to the outdoors just yet, but I definitely need to try that soon.