Leaving Animation & Game Dev Behind… And What Comes Next

This video is about a tough but important subject: what happens when animators, game developers, and VFX artists decide to leave the industry? We all start with passion and the dream of working in games, film, or animation. But the reality is that not everyone makes it in, and even if you do, staying in can be just as difficult. Reels get sent out, applications pile up, and sometimes, no matter how hard you work, the opportunities just don’t come. So what then? In this video, I’ll share real examples of animators and developers who pivoted out of the industry and built new lives and careers they’re happy with. You’ll also find resources and communities that can help you if you’re at a crossroads. ⸻ What We’ll Cover: • Why so many talented animators and game devs are leaving the industry today • Real LinkedIn stories of professionals who pivoted into new careers • Inspiring career exits collected by Salty Animator in the “Successful Exit” list • Community advice from the Animation Career subreddit • Why pivoting isn’t failure—it can actually lead to new opportunities and happiness ⸻ Resources Mentioned in the Video • Jackie’s Let’s Talk Toons Instagram:   / lets_talk_toons   • r/AnimationCareer subreddit:   / animationcareer   • Salty Animator’s Exit List (Google Sheet): https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/... ⸻ Join the Conversation Have you thought about leaving animation, games, or VFX? Or have you successfully pivoted into a new career? Share your story in the comments—I’d love to hear it. ⸻ If you want to learn and/or connect: 👉 Courses, Coaching & Workshops: https://learn.harveynewman.com/ 👉 Weekly Newsletter: https://harveynew.substack.com/ 👉 Patreon:   / harveynewman   👉 Twitter:   / rveenewman   👉 Instagram:   / rveenewman   👉 TikTok:   / harvey_newman   👉 Discord Community:   / discord   ⸻ If you found this video helpful, hit Like, drop a Comment, and Subscribe so you don’t miss my next video on game development, animation, and creative careers. ⸻ Timestamps 00:00 Intro 00:36 Industry Changes 02:22 Hard Truths 03:55 Transition Stories 05:14 Resources 06:37 Exit List 10:16 Takeaways 11:20 Closing ⸻ Learn with Me Courses, Coaching & Workshops ➡️ https://learn.harveynewman.com/ Weekly Newsletter ➡️ https://harveynew.substack.com/ ⸻ 🛠️ Business Inquiries For sponsorships, reviews, or collaborations: [email protected] ⸻ 📸 My Gear Setup Camera: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B08J2FYYY... Microphone: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B09DHXL8L... Capture Card: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07K3FN5M... Mic Arm: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B097376LK... Mouse: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07W6H4R4... Keyboard: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B084SVS59... Lights: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B082QHRZF... #AnimationCareer #GameDevLife #LeavingAnimation #CareerPivot #animation #games #industry