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How to become a video game tester?
Tell us everything we need to know to become a video game tester!
Note: We've seen a lot of interest in this career, so we're looking for guidance from our community of professionals.
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4 answers
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Doc’s Answer
Being a game tester can be fun and rewarding in addition to being a way to earn a living. You’ll often have access to the newest titles, and you’ll get an inside look at the gaming business. Testing video games may also appeal to your skills and interests, especially if you appreciate discovering new worlds, paying attention to detail and thinking strategically. You’ll also
get to use the most recent platforms, like PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X etc, allowing
you to enjoy the most high-end video games. Being a game tester can lead to a variety of employment prospects if your long-term goal is to work in the gaming business, including game creation, visual design, quality assurance engineering and project management. Testing video games is also challenging since, the cons include often repetitive tasks, low pay, long hours, and the need to meticulously document bugs, even in enjoyable games, which can sometimes detract from the fun of playing.
Another factor to consider when working as a freelance game tester is your income and expenses. Freelance game testers can set their own rates, negotiate their contracts, and charge for their services in different ways, such as by the hour, by the project, or by the bug. However, your income may vary depending on the demand, the competition, the quality, and the duration of your work. You may also have to deal with delayed payments, unpaid invoices, or disputes with clients. Moreover, you will have to cover your own expenses, such as taxes, insurance, equipment, software, internet, electricity, and other overhead costs. You will also have to invest in your own training, education, and certification, as well as in marketing and networking to find new clients and opportunities.
Lastly there's the aspect of working as a freelance game tester is the challenges and risks you face in your work. Freelance game testers have to deal with a lot of uncertainty, instability, and competition in the game industry. They have to constantly look for new projects and clients, as they may not have steady or long-term contracts. They also have to cope with changing requirements, deadlines, and expectations, as they may have to adjust to different phases, scopes, and goals of game development. They also have to handle a lot of pressure, responsibility, and confidentiality, as they may have to work under tight schedules, high standards, and strict NDAs. They also have to balance their work and personal life, as they may have to work long hours, irregular shifts, or weekends.
get to use the most recent platforms, like PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X etc, allowing
you to enjoy the most high-end video games. Being a game tester can lead to a variety of employment prospects if your long-term goal is to work in the gaming business, including game creation, visual design, quality assurance engineering and project management. Testing video games is also challenging since, the cons include often repetitive tasks, low pay, long hours, and the need to meticulously document bugs, even in enjoyable games, which can sometimes detract from the fun of playing.
Another factor to consider when working as a freelance game tester is your income and expenses. Freelance game testers can set their own rates, negotiate their contracts, and charge for their services in different ways, such as by the hour, by the project, or by the bug. However, your income may vary depending on the demand, the competition, the quality, and the duration of your work. You may also have to deal with delayed payments, unpaid invoices, or disputes with clients. Moreover, you will have to cover your own expenses, such as taxes, insurance, equipment, software, internet, electricity, and other overhead costs. You will also have to invest in your own training, education, and certification, as well as in marketing and networking to find new clients and opportunities.
Lastly there's the aspect of working as a freelance game tester is the challenges and risks you face in your work. Freelance game testers have to deal with a lot of uncertainty, instability, and competition in the game industry. They have to constantly look for new projects and clients, as they may not have steady or long-term contracts. They also have to cope with changing requirements, deadlines, and expectations, as they may have to adjust to different phases, scopes, and goals of game development. They also have to handle a lot of pressure, responsibility, and confidentiality, as they may have to work under tight schedules, high standards, and strict NDAs. They also have to balance their work and personal life, as they may have to work long hours, irregular shifts, or weekends.

James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian-Nutritionist & Software Developer since 1972 🡆 Optimization Of Human Performance
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Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Good Day CVOH!
How to Become a Video Game Tester
Becoming a video game tester, also known as a quality assurance (QA) tester, involves several steps that encompass education, skills development, and gaining relevant experience. Below is a detailed guide on how to pursue this career.
1. Understand the Role of a Video Game Tester
A video game tester’s primary responsibility is to identify bugs and issues in games before they are released to the public. This involves playing the game extensively, documenting any problems encountered, and providing feedback on gameplay mechanics, graphics, and overall user experience. Testers work closely with developers to ensure that the final product meets quality standards.
2. Educational Background
While formal education is not always required for becoming a video game tester, having a background in computer science, software engineering, or game design can be beneficial. Many employers prefer candidates who have at least an associate degree in these fields. Courses in programming languages (such as C++ or Java), software testing methodologies, and game development can provide valuable knowledge.
3. Develop Relevant Skills
To excel as a video game tester, you should develop several key skills:
Attention to Detail: You must be able to notice small inconsistencies or bugs that could affect gameplay.
Analytical Thinking: Being able to analyze gameplay mechanics and provide constructive feedback is crucial.
Communication Skills: Testers need to communicate effectively with developers and other team members about issues found during testing.
Technical Skills: Familiarity with various gaming platforms (PCs, consoles) and understanding of software testing tools can enhance your employability.
4. Gain Experience
Experience can be gained through various means:
Playtesting: Participate in beta tests for games; many companies offer opportunities for gamers to test their products before release.
Internships: Look for internships at gaming companies where you can gain hands-on experience in QA testing.
Freelancing: Some platforms allow you to freelance as a game tester for smaller indie games or projects.
5. Build Your Resume
When applying for positions as a video game tester, highlight any relevant experience you have gained through playtesting or internships. Include specific examples of games you have tested and detail any bugs you identified or improvements you suggested.
6. Networking
Networking within the gaming industry can open doors for job opportunities. Attend gaming conventions, join online forums related to game development and testing (such as Reddit’s r/gamedev), and connect with professionals on LinkedIn.
7. Apply for Jobs
Once you feel prepared with your skills and experience, start applying for entry-level QA positions at gaming companies. Tailor your resume and cover letter for each application by emphasizing your passion for gaming and your attention to detail.
8. Continuous Learning
The gaming industry is constantly evolving; therefore, staying updated on new technologies, trends in gaming design, and emerging platforms is essential. Consider taking additional courses or certifications related to software testing or game design.
By following these steps diligently, aspiring individuals can position themselves effectively within the competitive field of video game testing.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question:
1. International Game Developers Association (IGDA)
The IGDA provides resources and guidance for individuals interested in pursuing careers in the gaming industry, including insights into roles like video game testers.
2. Game Developer Magazine
This publication offers articles focused on various aspects of game development including quality assurance practices and career advice tailored specifically for those looking to enter the field of video games.
3. Gamasutra (now known as Game Developer)
Gamasutra features articles written by industry professionals that cover best practices in game development including insights into quality assurance roles such as video game testers.
Probability the answer is correct: 95%
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|==========================God Bless You, Richly!==========================|
|===========================James Constantine===========================|
|=============THE LITTLE OLD AUSTRALIAN OUTBACK DIETITIAN==============|
|===================Programming For Your Nutrition Education=================|
|============================~ Since 1972!==============================|
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
How to Become a Video Game Tester
Becoming a video game tester, also known as a quality assurance (QA) tester, involves several steps that encompass education, skills development, and gaining relevant experience. Below is a detailed guide on how to pursue this career.
1. Understand the Role of a Video Game Tester
A video game tester’s primary responsibility is to identify bugs and issues in games before they are released to the public. This involves playing the game extensively, documenting any problems encountered, and providing feedback on gameplay mechanics, graphics, and overall user experience. Testers work closely with developers to ensure that the final product meets quality standards.
2. Educational Background
While formal education is not always required for becoming a video game tester, having a background in computer science, software engineering, or game design can be beneficial. Many employers prefer candidates who have at least an associate degree in these fields. Courses in programming languages (such as C++ or Java), software testing methodologies, and game development can provide valuable knowledge.
3. Develop Relevant Skills
To excel as a video game tester, you should develop several key skills:
Attention to Detail: You must be able to notice small inconsistencies or bugs that could affect gameplay.
Analytical Thinking: Being able to analyze gameplay mechanics and provide constructive feedback is crucial.
Communication Skills: Testers need to communicate effectively with developers and other team members about issues found during testing.
Technical Skills: Familiarity with various gaming platforms (PCs, consoles) and understanding of software testing tools can enhance your employability.
4. Gain Experience
Experience can be gained through various means:
Playtesting: Participate in beta tests for games; many companies offer opportunities for gamers to test their products before release.
Internships: Look for internships at gaming companies where you can gain hands-on experience in QA testing.
Freelancing: Some platforms allow you to freelance as a game tester for smaller indie games or projects.
5. Build Your Resume
When applying for positions as a video game tester, highlight any relevant experience you have gained through playtesting or internships. Include specific examples of games you have tested and detail any bugs you identified or improvements you suggested.
6. Networking
Networking within the gaming industry can open doors for job opportunities. Attend gaming conventions, join online forums related to game development and testing (such as Reddit’s r/gamedev), and connect with professionals on LinkedIn.
7. Apply for Jobs
Once you feel prepared with your skills and experience, start applying for entry-level QA positions at gaming companies. Tailor your resume and cover letter for each application by emphasizing your passion for gaming and your attention to detail.
8. Continuous Learning
The gaming industry is constantly evolving; therefore, staying updated on new technologies, trends in gaming design, and emerging platforms is essential. Consider taking additional courses or certifications related to software testing or game design.
By following these steps diligently, aspiring individuals can position themselves effectively within the competitive field of video game testing.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question:
1. International Game Developers Association (IGDA)
The IGDA provides resources and guidance for individuals interested in pursuing careers in the gaming industry, including insights into roles like video game testers.
2. Game Developer Magazine
This publication offers articles focused on various aspects of game development including quality assurance practices and career advice tailored specifically for those looking to enter the field of video games.
3. Gamasutra (now known as Game Developer)
Gamasutra features articles written by industry professionals that cover best practices in game development including insights into quality assurance roles such as video game testers.
Probability the answer is correct: 95%
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
|==========================God Bless You, Richly!==========================|
|===========================James Constantine===========================|
|=============THE LITTLE OLD AUSTRALIAN OUTBACK DIETITIAN==============|
|===================Programming For Your Nutrition Education=================|
|============================~ Since 1972!==============================|
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
Updated
Tomas’s Answer
An easy way to do this is to follow indie game developers on social media platforms like LinkedIn, Instagram, X, etc.
I actually got my position by following and interacting with an indie game designer whose work I liked.
A lot of our playtesters come from our social media accounts too.
I have also found that many of the indie game designers I see on socials are looking for playtesters.
Many of them require Discord.
I actually got my position by following and interacting with an indie game designer whose work I liked.
A lot of our playtesters come from our social media accounts too.
I have also found that many of the indie game designers I see on socials are looking for playtesters.
Many of them require Discord.
Updated
Dana’s Answer
1. Try Playtestcloud.com
2. Participate in Esports Tournaments
3. Stream on platforms like YouTube or Twitch. With enough followers, monetization options become available through advertisements, donations and paid subscriptions.
2. Participate in Esports Tournaments
3. Stream on platforms like YouTube or Twitch. With enough followers, monetization options become available through advertisements, donations and paid subscriptions.