3 answers
Stefan
Student
Tampa, Florida
1
Question
Asked
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What are you expected to know going into a game development related job? And do you have any resources or tips to help me learn more about coding, game dev, VFX, and anything else i’d need to know?
I’m currently in the S.T.E.M. concentration at my school and i am also on the robotics team. While being in the concentration, i have developed a passions for coding, 3D Modeling and VFX. I am not the best at it which is why i’m coming here for advice. If there’s anything i should know, need to know, or any advice you have, please let me know!
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3 answers
Harmit Singh
Game Developer
17
Answers
Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
Updated
Harmit’s Answer
Hi Stefan!
It sounds like you're already taking all the right steps to becoming successful in the game industry! Coding, VFX, and 3D Modelling will get you far, and it's awesome that you've found a passion for those skills. They'll help you create a diverse skillset that you can use to apply to many different areas of game development, whether it be at a studio or making your own game.
Since you're already at such a good start, my advice would be to just keep it up! As you practice, learn, and hone your skills, you'll only get better. Try entering some game jams, making projects and games on your own, and possibly even uploading some projects onto GitHub or itch.io. You can truly showcase your work there.
Best of luck!
It sounds like you're already taking all the right steps to becoming successful in the game industry! Coding, VFX, and 3D Modelling will get you far, and it's awesome that you've found a passion for those skills. They'll help you create a diverse skillset that you can use to apply to many different areas of game development, whether it be at a studio or making your own game.
Since you're already at such a good start, my advice would be to just keep it up! As you practice, learn, and hone your skills, you'll only get better. Try entering some game jams, making projects and games on your own, and possibly even uploading some projects onto GitHub or itch.io. You can truly showcase your work there.
Best of luck!
Jacob Taylor
Production Manager
523
Answers
Stafford, Virginia
Updated
Jacob’s Answer
It's great to hear about your interest in game development, coding, 3D modeling, and VFX! Transitioning into a game development-related job involves a blend of technical skills, creativity, and problem-solving abilities. Here are some essential things you should know and resources/tips to help you on your journey:
1. **Programming Skills**: Learning programming languages such as C++, C#, or Python is crucial for game development. Online platforms like Codecademy, Udemy, and Coursera offer courses for beginners and advanced learners.
2. **Game Engines**: Familiarize yourself with popular game engines like Unity or Unreal Engine. These are essential tools for creating games. Both have extensive documentation and tutorials available online.
3. **3D Modeling and VFX**: Consider using software like Blender, Maya, or 3ds Max for 3D modeling and tools like Adobe After Effects for VFX. YouTube and dedicated forums are excellent resources for tutorials and tips.
4. **Mathematics**: A solid understanding of math, particularly geometry and linear algebra, is beneficial for tasks like physics simulations and 3D transformations.
5. **Teamwork and Collaboration**: Game development often involves working in teams. Practice effective communication, collaboration, and project management skills. Joining a game development club or participating in group projects can be helpful.
6. **Portfolio Building**: Create a portfolio of your projects to showcase your skills. This can include games, 3D models, and VFX demos. A strong portfolio is crucial when applying for game development jobs.
7. **Networking**: Attend game development conferences, join online forums, and participate in game jams to connect with professionals in the industry. Networking can open up opportunities and provide valuable insights.
8. **Stay Informed**: The game development industry evolves rapidly. Keep up to date with industry news, trends, and emerging technologies by following websites, podcasts, and blogs related to game development.
9. **Practice and Patience**: Don't be discouraged by initial challenges. Practice regularly, take on projects that challenge you, and be patient with your progress. Learning game development is a journey that takes time.
10. **Seek Feedback**: Share your work with peers and mentors to receive constructive feedback. This will help you improve your skills and identify areas for growth.
Remember that game development is a multidisciplinary field, and it's perfectly normal not to be the best at everything right away. Continuous learning and dedication will help you progress. Keep working on your projects, building your skills, and seeking advice and guidance from experienced professionals. Your STEM background and robotics experience will also provide a solid foundation for your journey into game development. Good luck!
1. **Programming Skills**: Learning programming languages such as C++, C#, or Python is crucial for game development. Online platforms like Codecademy, Udemy, and Coursera offer courses for beginners and advanced learners.
2. **Game Engines**: Familiarize yourself with popular game engines like Unity or Unreal Engine. These are essential tools for creating games. Both have extensive documentation and tutorials available online.
3. **3D Modeling and VFX**: Consider using software like Blender, Maya, or 3ds Max for 3D modeling and tools like Adobe After Effects for VFX. YouTube and dedicated forums are excellent resources for tutorials and tips.
4. **Mathematics**: A solid understanding of math, particularly geometry and linear algebra, is beneficial for tasks like physics simulations and 3D transformations.
5. **Teamwork and Collaboration**: Game development often involves working in teams. Practice effective communication, collaboration, and project management skills. Joining a game development club or participating in group projects can be helpful.
6. **Portfolio Building**: Create a portfolio of your projects to showcase your skills. This can include games, 3D models, and VFX demos. A strong portfolio is crucial when applying for game development jobs.
7. **Networking**: Attend game development conferences, join online forums, and participate in game jams to connect with professionals in the industry. Networking can open up opportunities and provide valuable insights.
8. **Stay Informed**: The game development industry evolves rapidly. Keep up to date with industry news, trends, and emerging technologies by following websites, podcasts, and blogs related to game development.
9. **Practice and Patience**: Don't be discouraged by initial challenges. Practice regularly, take on projects that challenge you, and be patient with your progress. Learning game development is a journey that takes time.
10. **Seek Feedback**: Share your work with peers and mentors to receive constructive feedback. This will help you improve your skills and identify areas for growth.
Remember that game development is a multidisciplinary field, and it's perfectly normal not to be the best at everything right away. Continuous learning and dedication will help you progress. Keep working on your projects, building your skills, and seeking advice and guidance from experienced professionals. Your STEM background and robotics experience will also provide a solid foundation for your journey into game development. Good luck!
Michael Leibrandt, CCNA, CNS-D, VSE, CDCA
IT Project Manager, Supervisor of Audio/Visual Services, Information Technology Engineer II
13
Answers
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Updated
Michael’s Answer
Hi Stefan! Wow, thanks for an excellent question. From your question, it already sounds like you are on the road to success. I would recommend finding some job descriptions for coding and VFX and see what they require. That will also give you an idea of what is needed in a college or professional certificate program. Congrats, you are well on your way to success. Best of luck.