Wouldn’t it be great to play video games all day and get paid for it? We often feel jealous of the live streamers and competitive gamers who get to do just that.
However, there are plenty of other careers to consider if you love video games. And with the video game industry reaching a record $188 this year, it could also be a great move professionally.
Here are just a few options to consider if you’re considering jumping into the gaming industry.
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So much so that we also included some of your quotes in our end-of-year wrap-up article. If you have some time today or later this week, we would really appreciate it if you checked it out and shared our LinkedIn post with your network, or feel free to check out the article and create your own post.
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#1: Video Game Producer
A Video Game Producer is responsible for overseeing the development and production of a video game. They work with a team of developers, designers, artists, and other professionals and manage the project from concept to completion, setting and tracking development schedules to ensure that the game is completed on time and within budget.
In addition to managing the development process, a Video Game Producer may be responsible for managing relationships with external partners and vendors, negotiating contracts, and working with marketing and public relations teams to promote the game.
Video game production can be a challenging and fast-paced job, as producers must juggle many tasks and responsibilities at once. However, it can also be a rewarding career for those with strong organization, communication, and project management skills.
#2: Video Game Designer
A Video Game Designer comes up with the games’ concepts and core gameplay mechanics. This can include designing and tuning the game controls, progression, storyline, environments, puzzles, and other elements that players interact with.
Often, Video Game Designers specialize in a certain area — such as combat mechanics, level design, or plot and characters.
Video Game Designers need to have a strong understanding of gameplay mechanics and how a wide variety of games function in order to design engaging and challenging gameplay experiences.
#3. Video Game Programmer
Video Game Programmers write and implement the code that makes a video game function and bring the vision of the video game designer to reality. This can involve designing and building the game’s systems, implementing graphics and sound, and programming AI (artificial intelligence) for non-player characters.
Video game programming can be a complex and technical field, and it often requires a strong foundation in computer science and programming languages such as C++ or Java. However, it is also one of the most highly compensated gaming careers as technical skills are highly in demand.
#4: Video Game Data Scientist
A Video Game Data Scientist uses data and analytics to improve the design and performance of video games. They work with large sets of data related to player behavior, game mechanics, and other aspects of game design, and use statistical analysis, machine learning, and other data-driven techniques to build better games.
Some examples of tasks Video Game Data Scientists perform are:
- Analyzing player behavior and game metrics to optimize the game design and balance
- Developing algorithms and models to predict player behavior
- Building and maintaining data pipelines to collect, process, and analyze data from various sources
- Communicating findings and recommendations to game designers, developers, and other stakeholders.
Video game data scientists typically have a background in data science, computer science, or a related field.
#5: Video Game Writer
A video Game Writer specializes in creating written content for video games. This can include creating character dialogue and descriptions, developing storylines and narratives, and writing scripts for cutscenes and other in-game events.
It’s the responsibility of the Video Game Writer to create an engaging story and characters, manage narrative pacing, and ensure that all written content is consistent with the game’s overall tone and style.
The role requires strong writing ability, creativity, a good understanding of storytelling techniques, and the ability to work well in a team.
#6: Video Game Tester / Quality Assurance
A video game tester tests and evaluates video games during the development process to ensure that they are of high quality and are free of bugs and other issues.
Video game testers play the game repeatedly and thoroughly, looking for any problems or issues that might affect the gameplay experience. They create reports on their findings, suggest improvements and fixes, and communicate with the development team to help resolve any issues.
Though the job can be demanding and involve long hours of gameplay, it can also be a rewarding job for those who are passionate about video games and want to be a part of the development process. And with the increasing complexity and scope of video games, there is a growing demand for video game testers.
#7: Video Game Audio Engineer
A Video Game Audio Engineer is responsible for creating and implementing the audio for video games. This includes creating sound effects, music, and dialogue, and integrating them into the game using specialized audio software.
Video Game Audio Engineers typically have a background in music and sound design and may have a degree in a related field such as audio engineering or music production. They use a variety of audio software and tools, such as Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs) and sound design software.
If you have a strong interest in music and sound design and want to apply your skills in a creative and interactive way, becoming a video game audio engineer might be a good fit for you.
#8: Video Game Artist
A Video Game Artist creates the visual elements of a video game, such as the characters, environments, and objects. They work closely with game designers and programmers to bring the game to life and create an immersive and engaging experience for players.
Video Game Artists play a crucial role in the development of a game, as they help create the look and feel of the game world and ensure that the game’s art style is consistent and visually appealing.
These professionals typically have a background in art or design and may have expertise in a variety of areas such as 3D modeling, character design, texture mapping, and animation.
