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how do i make a career out of gaming?

i like video games

technology video-game-design gaming
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Iryna’s Answer

Hi Mike!

Making a career in the gaming industry can be exciting and rewarding, especially if you have a passion for video games. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate various career paths within the gaming field, from development to marketing and beyond.

Steps to Build a Career in the Gaming Industry
1. Identify Your Area of Interest
The gaming industry encompasses various roles. Here are some common career paths:
Game Designer: Creators of the game mechanics, story, and overall experience.
Game Developer/Programmer: Responsible for coding and implementing the technical aspects of games.
Artist/Animator: Focuses on visual elements, including character design, environments, and animations.
Sound Designer/Musician: Creates audio effects, soundtracks, and voiceovers for games.
Quality Assurance (QA) Tester: Tests games for bugs, usability, and overall quality before release.
Game Producer: Oversees the development process, managing teams and resources.
Game Writer: Develops dialogue, narratives, and backstories for games.
Community Manager/Marketing: Engages with players, promoting games and managing online communities.

2. Gain Relevant Skills and Education
Formal Education: Depending on the career path, consider degrees in game design, computer science, graphic design, or interactive media. Some specialized schools focus on video game development.
Online Courses and Tutorials: Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, or Khan Academy offer courses related to game development, programming languages (e.g., C++, Python), and design tools (e.g., Unity, Unreal Engine).
Self-Directed Learning: There are many resources, including YouTube tutorials, forums, and books that cover game design, programming, and art.

3. Build a Portfolio
Create Projects: Work on personal projects to showcase your skills. This could include developed games, game mods, artwork, or writing samples.
Game Jams: Participate in game jams (like Global Game Jam) where you create a game in a short time frame. This can be a great way to gain experience and teamwork skills.
Collaboration: Team up with others who have complementary skills to develop complete games or game concepts for your portfolio.

4. Network with Professionals
Join Gaming Communities: Participate in online forums (like Reddit, Discord servers, and specialized game development sites) to connect with other aspiring developers and industry professionals.
Attend Game Conferences: Events like the Game Developers Conference (GDC) or PAX provide networking opportunities, workshops, and talks from industry leaders.
Social Media and LinkedIn: Use professional platforms to follow industry leaders, join groups, and share your work.

5. Gain Experience
Internships: Look for internship opportunities at game studios or companies related to gaming. This can provide valuable hands-on experience and networking opportunities.
Entry-Level Positions: Consider applying for QA testing positions or other support roles that can lead to further opportunities in game development.

6. Stay Updated
Industry Trends: Follow gaming news, attend webinars, and join forums to stay informed about emerging trends, new technologies, and market demands.
Continuous Learning: The gaming industry is constantly evolving. Pursue lifelong learning to keep up with new tools, programming languages, and design philosophies.

7. Apply for Jobs
Tailored Applications: Prepare tailored resumes and cover letters for the roles you apply for, highlighting relevant skills and experiences.
Job Boards and Company Websites: Look for job openings on gaming company websites and platforms like Indeed, Glassdoor, and dedicated game job boards (e.g., Games Jobs Direct).

Building a career in the gaming industry requires a blend of passion, skill development, and networking. By identifying your interests, pursuing relevant education or skills, creating a portfolio, and making connections within the industry, you can position yourself for success in a variety of gaming-related roles. Stay proactive, stay curious, and keep your love for games at the forefront of your career journey!
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Kevin’s Answer

The quick answer is "by being the best at something". No matter which aspect of the game industry you are interested in, there are only so many slots available and far too many applying for them. This means the people doing the hiring can afford to be picky. Whether you are looking at professional player, designer, programmer, artist -- whatever -- you have to be the very best at that or you will be passed over every time.

Think of all the kids that grow up wanting to be a professional athlete. Of that number, how many are successful on their high school team? Of that number, how many are able to continue on and play in college? Of that number, how many are good enough to get drafted by a pro team? It's very similar in the game industry.

So, if you want a career, pick one aspect of the industry and master it. Be the expert that gets approached when jobs become available.
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