Masters Forge Card Game [Urgent]

Freelance Digital Illustrator is needed in New Zealand.

We are developing Masters Forge, a competitive fantasy card game focused on rival guild smiths crafting legendary weapons, armour, and shields. The project aims for a heroic late 80s to 90s fantasy aesthetic, reminiscent of HeroQuest, classic dungeon crawlers, He Man, and Golden Axe, with bold centralised items and vibrant, high-contrast metal effects. We need a 2D Fantasy Illustrator with a strong sense of progression—visualising equipment from simple apprentice creations to ornate masterwork showpieces as a guild would proudly display. The project’s art must focus on bold, readable silhouettes and saturated, warm palettes with exaggerated but convincing proportions that convey the items’ forged weight and craftsmanship. Character illustration is not required, as the item itself should be the centrepiece. The visual identity of the equipment cards is the priority, and you will help define the distinct look and feel of our game’s gear.

Budget range:
2500-3000

Who are you, and what do you do?
I am a solo tabletop designer based in New Zealand, currently focused on developing Masters Forge, a competitive fantasy card game about rival guild smiths. Alongside the physical prototype I build digital tools and a simulator to stress test the rules and balance, so the project is quite structured and documented. I am now looking to collaborate with the right illustrator to define the visual identity of the game’s equipment cards.

In what capacity are you hiring?
For my company

Where are you in the hiring process?
I will possibly make a paid hire

What type of work is this?
Single job with potential follow up work

What experience level is needed?:
Beginner, Junior, Mid-level (Industry Average)