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Game Programmer Vs App/Software Programmer

I have been in love with computers and technology all of my life and starting next year I am perusing a degree in Computer Science. One of the questions that I still have is how should I go about how to deciding whether if I should be a game programmer or a app/software programmer? The difference in pay is not a factor for me, I want to be happy in my job. I like programming because I get to see the project that I am working on work and be proud of myself or make a mistake and then learn from it. I have a few ideas for games and apps and also want to own my own business, I like to work in teams, I am a natural born leader and can work for hours if I am invested in the project. I don't know if that helps but that gives you a better idea of who I am. Thank for all of your help!
#computer-science #programming #game-programming #software-developer

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Eric’s Answer

James gave a good, balanced answer, so I'm going to give an opinionated one.


You should start by being a general (app/software) programmer. The skills are just as applicable to being a game programmer, but the range of possible jobs is much wider. You can spend time as a generalist, and possibly even write games on the side on your own time, if you like programming enough for it to be your hobby in addition to your job. Once you have a good sense of what the industry is like, if you decide that you really want to get a job writing games, you can move over to that where you will have a lot more experience to point to rather than a new grad seeking to write games (there are a lot of people like that, so you would have high competition starting out.)
Thank you comment icon Thank you for the advice it makes a lot of sense and sounds like a plan I will follow after college. Adrian
Thank you comment icon Great advice Eric! James Baker
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James’s Answer

Honestly, you should do what you love and follow your heart. Software programming is tough and when you factor in all the social politics and the large amount of overhead that comes with building something (e.g. meetings, planning, architecture, tooling, management, design, etc.), it's stressful enough as it is. If you were building applications for some sector that you just didn't jive with, your stress and dissatisfaction will be compounded.


As an engineer with a degree in CS, you won't have trouble finding a good job if your programming chops are strong. So, get out there and do what you love! Game development can be intense and has its own set of pressures, but IMO, it's all a trade-off. In the end, you'll write some great code, work with awesome technologies, and have a youthful culture among peers.


I hope that helps.
Thank you comment icon Thank you so much! This gives me more insight than I expected so thank you. If you wouldn't mind could I add you on LinkedIn so I could pick your brain more? Adrian
Thank you comment icon Sure. Feel free to send me an invite! James Baker
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Sathish’s Answer

Both for game programmer and app/software programmer, I would ask you to focus on the fundamentals and improve your critical thinking capability. And along with extreme passion and growth mindset should drive you to the next level. In my opinion, the skills should overlap for game programmer and app/software programmer. However, the work differs based on the focus area like game programmer might focus more on the game theming, response time, small chunks of data and so on.
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Adrian’s Answer

I'd say you have to have a real love of video games to give a serious consideration to it. The pay is generally worse (I know you said it wasn't a concern), but the working conditions are often worse as well (mandatory overtime frequently, uncertainty of continued employment with the completion fo a project, and others). But if it's something you are passionate about, then that can totally be worth it to you. Some people have called out working on video games as hobby, and that's a really good suggestion. The skills from the dayjob totally transfer, and you won't be beholden to another persons timelines. I can say that for me personally i still get the satisfaction fo solving a problem, and helping someone achieve a goal from doing non-video game work, but you might not. Doing the video game work in your own time will help you determine which you prefer and potentially give you a body of work that you can point to if you decide to switch to it professionaly.
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