3 answers
Ramon
Student
Schaumburg, Illinois
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What are some jobs that will allow me to become a video game developer
I am a student at New Endeavors transition and I am interested in knowing a lot more about the video game development field and learn more about it.
#video-game-development #video-games #gaming
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Simeon Snow
Risk Assurance
1792
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Houston, Texas
Updated
Simeon’s Answer
As a video game developer, it will help to develop your own portfolio of games you've made. I'd recommend checking out game jams like the one hosted by Game Maker's Toolkit on itch.io. He has a very successful Youtube channel and has had record-breaking numbers of participants in his game jams these past years. Game jams are multi-day events where entrants compete to make games that match the theme of the jam. You don't need any prior experience to participate and you'll find people, especially on Discord, who would be excited to point you in the direction of free resources. It helps to have a focused event like this to practice using a skill. It makes it easier to practice the skill and wrap your head around which parts of the coding process are giving you issues.
Doc Frick
Career Coach and Mentor
1349
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California, CA
Updated
Doc’s Answer
Although a degree isn't always necessary for an entry-level job in this field Ramon, employers may prefer job applicants who have completed an associate's degree program. Those who graduate with an associate's degree in video game development are generally prepared for an entry-level job at a game publishing company or development team. Aspiring video game developers can choose from associate's and bachelor's degree programs in video game development. There are also different game design and development degree and certificate programs available, as well as game programmer schools. At this level, aspiring video game developers usually receive hands-on training with technology in the field, and training in programming languages. Video game developers usually work in teams to help make an idea for a video game come to life. The pre-production process usually includes creating a story, outlining designs, and creating prototypes. The video game then moves into the production process, where designers determine how the game will work, and programmers help make the game work. Post-production usually focuses on testing and correcting any issues.
Entry level video game developers often have difficulty breaking into the video game industry because most major studios require experience. Some new programmers find their first professional positions at smaller studios, making short, simple games for mobile devices and social media sites. One way to gain an advantage in the competitive job market is by networking on the blogs, forums, and websites most often visited by game developers. Sometimes the professional contacts gained through these sites will ask for portfolios or advertise available positions not found on traditional job boards. The most effective way to get noticed by these gaming studios is to create games and put them in your portfolio, a successful portfolio should include several small games that can be played to completion. The portfolio should offer the viewer links to all the installation software needed for each game to work. As a backup, there should be screenshots of crucial game scenes so the games can be evaluated even if the support software products required are not readily available at the time of the portfolio review. The portfolio should have source code for all the games. The notes should give credit to any collaborators who might have helped with elements of the game's design, programming or presentation.
Hope this is helpful Ramon
To increase the chances of finding an entry level position, get an internship first. One of the most effective ways for new programmers to gain the experience needed for an entry level position is to get an internship. Some of the companies that offer positions for interns include Volition Inc, EA Games, Insomniac Games, and LucasArts. Companies seeking interns typically require that their recruits have skills in C++, 3D graphics, artificial intelligence, and physics as well as strong problem-solving skills.
Entry level video game developers often have difficulty breaking into the video game industry because most major studios require experience. Some new programmers find their first professional positions at smaller studios, making short, simple games for mobile devices and social media sites. One way to gain an advantage in the competitive job market is by networking on the blogs, forums, and websites most often visited by game developers. Sometimes the professional contacts gained through these sites will ask for portfolios or advertise available positions not found on traditional job boards. The most effective way to get noticed by these gaming studios is to create games and put them in your portfolio, a successful portfolio should include several small games that can be played to completion. The portfolio should offer the viewer links to all the installation software needed for each game to work. As a backup, there should be screenshots of crucial game scenes so the games can be evaluated even if the support software products required are not readily available at the time of the portfolio review. The portfolio should have source code for all the games. The notes should give credit to any collaborators who might have helped with elements of the game's design, programming or presentation.
Hope this is helpful Ramon
Doc recommends the following next steps:
Lorrena Peterson
Analyst
3
Answers
Plain City, Ohio
Updated
Lorrena’s Answer
If you're interested in being a Video Game Designer, I'd recommend reaching out to some companies close to home like Graveflex, Level Ex, and GameVision Studios, to name a few. These companies, and many others, may offer internships that could allow you to build your skill sets. If internships aren't available, ask if they need game testers.
Be persistant and don't give up! Take classes in computer programming and graphic design as well as creative writing classes. Every great game has a great storyline and those storylines come from great writers!
Be persistant and don't give up! Take classes in computer programming and graphic design as well as creative writing classes. Every great game has a great storyline and those storylines come from great writers!