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Creating a Combat Finishing Takedown

Games Workflow in Maya with Patrick Przybyla

Description

Mastering a finishing takedown animation is made easier with a professional workflow that’s been tried and tested through years of production experience. Senior Animator Patrick Przybyla has worked on a variety of AAA action titles and is now sharing his proven techniques in over three hours of detailed training.


Best suited for intermediate-level artists, this workshop kicks off in Maya, the primary animation package that Patrick has used throughout his career in games. He shares insights into his selection process when choosing rigs and models for heroes and enemies, and explains why Kiel Figgins’ rigs — as used in this workshop — are known and trusted by so many industry professionals.


Detailing the process that he uses to create production-quality animations, Patrick’s workshop shows how to set up the selected rigs, and shares how to shoot self-reference video footage to inform the block out and key poses for the animation. The lecture details how adding breakdown poses can create more structure and flow in an animation sequence and covers how to polish up a professional-looking action animation with in-between poses.


Patrick also delves into how to create a high-quality playblast that includes set dressing, lights, and shadows to help give a more professional presentation. While this workshop is aimed at intermediate artists, beginners will also appreciate the core concepts, workflow, and fundamentals that benefit anyone with a basic knowledge of animating in Maya.


Duration: 3h 25m

Format: HD 1920x1080

Patrick Przybyla

Senior Animator

Patrick Przybyla is a Senior Freelance Animator with over 20 years of experience in the games industry. He has contributed to major AAA franchises, including Star Wars, Transformers, Destiny, and Call of Duty.


Patrick began his journey at the Academy of Art University in San Francisco, where he studied animation before launching a career spanning some of the most recognizable brands in entertainment.


A lifelong gamer, Patrick’s passion for video games informs his work as an animator, bringing energy, personality, and authenticity to every character he animates. His dedication to the craft and deep understanding of gameplay mechanics allow him to create performances that resonate with players and enhance the immersive experience of each title.