Manuel Torres Pineda
About Manuel Torres Pineda
Manuel Torres Pineda is a Lead AI Animator at Raven Software, specializing in creating realistic and stylized animations for video games. He has extensive experience in the gaming industry, having worked with notable companies such as Eidos-Montréal, Respawn Entertainment, and Ubisoft.
Current Role at Raven Software
Manuel Torres Pineda serves as the Lead AI Animator at Raven Software, focusing on the Call of Duty franchise. He has held this position since 2021, contributing to the development of high-performance AI and gameplay animations. His role involves close collaboration with the Motion Capture team to direct talent and ensure the quality of animations meets industry standards.
Previous Experience in Game Animation
Prior to his current role, Manuel worked at several prominent game development studios. He was a Lead Animator at Respawn Entertainment for Apex Legends from 2019 to 2021. He also served as a Senior Animator at Ubisoft Toronto for Starlink Battle for Atlas from 2012 to 2015. His experience includes roles at Eidos-Montréal, Gameloft Montreal, and Electronic Arts, where he honed his skills in creating both realistic and stylized animations.
Educational Background in Animation and Technology
Manuel holds a Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, Computer Science, and Systems from Universidad La Salle, A.C. He furthered his education in animation through various programs, including a Diploma from the Centre National D'Animation Et De Design, where he studied under Jason Ryan from Dreamworks Animation Studios. He also completed a Masterclass with Pixar Artists at the Vancouver Institute Of Media Arts.
Technical Skills and Animation Expertise
Manuel is proficient in advanced animation software, including Maya and Motion Builder, and possesses intermediate skills in 3ds Max and Unreal Engine. He specializes in game animation systems, focusing on character navigation, combat animations, and integrating body mechanics with storytelling. His expertise extends to creating both subtle, realistic animations and exaggerated, cartoony styles.
Contributions to Animation Tools and Pipelines
In addition to his animation work, Manuel contributes to the development of efficient tools and pipelines in collaboration with the technical animation team. He is dedicated to elevating the quality of animation in video games, drawing inspiration from the animation standards found in movies and television.