Rookies Weekly Update

Welcome to the Rookies Weekly Update, hosted by Conor Woodard. Let's dive into the latest happenings in the world of technology, gaming, art, and animation. From the highly anticipated Apple XR headset to the release of The Legend of Zelda and intriguing developments in the creative industry, we have plenty to discuss. So, let's get started!

Next month, Apple may finally unveil their highly anticipated XR headset. Palmer Luckey, founder of Oculus, has mentioned that while he hasn't seen the final version, the earlier iteration of the headset was excellent and a significant breakthrough. Luckey believes that Apple's strategy of making virtual reality desirable before making it affordable is a smart move. As VR enthusiasts, we can't help but be excited about the potential of this upcoming release.

The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom has taken the gaming world by storm. Nintendo's most anticipated release in decades has received phenomenal reviews from both critics and gamers. The game's success is a testament to the enduring popularity and timeless appeal of the Zelda franchise.

Cartoon Brew recently posted an article about Sony Image Works setting up a new studio in Montreal. However, the starting salary of $22.50 per hour received significant backlash online. While this wage may be lower than expected for a junior position, it is essential to consider the lower cost of living in Montreal. Nevertheless, the controversy surrounding this issue persists.

Anatomy for Sculptors offers an incredible ArtStation page filled with a wealth of resources and references. Whether you're a beginner or a professional, this page is loaded with guides to help you master anatomy sculpting. Take advantage of this valuable resource to enhance your artistic skills.

Johannes Anderson has developed a chat GPT plugin for Maya, and the trailer looks promising. This plugin has the potential to assist with tutoring aspects and expedite the learning process in Maya. It's an exciting development for artists and enthusiasts looking to delve deeper into the world of animation.

Flipped Normals has released the ultimate 3D dictionary catered to beginners, and it's highly recommended. If you're unfamiliar with terms like UDIM or texel density, this resource will help you understand the vocabulary commonly used across different departments in the industry. Expand your knowledge and strengthen your foundation with this comprehensive dictionary.

Must-Follow Artists: Stephen Silver, an artist recruiter at Disney TVA, and character designer, offers valuable tips for artists at all stages of their careers. His posts on various platforms are worth following. Similarly, Paul Johnson's LinkedIn page is a treasure trove for animation enthusiasts. His breakdowns of classic and iconic animated television series are insightful and educational.

Hitmarker has posted a trailer for a creatively unique game called 'The Voidness' that utilizes a Lidar scanner. The gameplay showcased in the trailer is unlike anything seen before, making it truly captivating. The game's innovative use of technology promises an immersive experience that stands out from the crowd.

CG Spectrum is offering new courses on 3D architectural visualization, mentored by experts like Nicklas Byriel and other architectural visualization masters. The skills gained from these courses are highly applicable across the industry, making them a valuable asset for aspiring professionals.

See Conor's full Weekly Update here: