What does a video game developer actually do all day?
There are three main types of jobs in this field: game design, game programming and art. Designers come up with ideas for games, then work as a part of a team to flesh out the details of a new game, including the theme, characters, etc.
Game programmers write code that enables the computer to play the game. Artists create and fine-tune the game’s visual style and the look of the characters and settings. Other people who play an important role in game development are audio engineers, who produce sound effects and other audio, and quality assurance testers, who help identify glitches before a game goes to market.
What kind of cash are we talking about here?
The range is wide — from roughly $50,000 to over $100,000 a year, depending on skills and level of expertise, experience and seniority. Generally, this is a well-paying field.
What do you have to do to get this job?
Most video game development positions require a college degree. Designers should have course work and/or experience in computer programming and scripting and game design. Programmers usually have a bachelor’s in computer science or a related field. Artists have typically attended art school and are well versed in computer graphics and modeling tools.
OK, tell me the bad part.
It can take years to bring a new game to market, and a company’s very survival can depend on a game’s success. So the pressure on the development team as a game nears completion is intense. Part of the development process includes endless redesign and problem solving. Video game designers have to remain on the cutting edge of technology and gamers’ demands.
What’s the upside?
A casual office environment, good pay and creative, fun work make this job a video gamer’s dream.