It doesn't even sound like he understood what he was applying for.

I would agree with this 100%.

Maybe he just wants to bum off a free game from you?

My thought exactly!

I disagree. Suppose it's a 3D modeller who saw an interesting project about a sci-fi game, that just happens to modding, say, CounterStrike.

Just because he's interested in 3D modelling and interested in sci-fi games, doesn't mean he's interested in CounterStrike or that he owns a copy of it. What does he care about what engine that is used under the hood?

That's like saying, "I'd be worried about any level designer that doesn't already own Unity!". The level designer could just happen to be used to Source Engine and Unreal Engine and other engines.

But I do agree with, I'd be worried about any modder who's not willing to pony up $15. Ofcourse, $15 USD varies alot in cost depending on your average cost of living. $15 in California might be the equivilent of $20 in the midwestern states, and could be the equivilent of $30 or $40 in another country.

Nevertheless, I wouldn't buy him a copy unless I already know the quality of his work based on examples he's shown me, and unless I get a firm comittment from him to stay with the project for at least six months.

If he's not willing to invest $15 in the project, I can't imagine he's willing to invest much time or effort. There's also the chance he's just trying to get you to buy him the game before cutting out. I'd forget him and look elsewhere.

The question was answered over a month ago. I'm closing the thread so nobody else thinks it's a fresh question.