Those having a flair for computer programming can look forward to the video game industry as a potential employer. More information on video programming jobs have been presented in this article.
If you’re an individual with a passion to take the video game action and entertainment industry to a new level through your programs, then you’ll be delighted to know that it is the field to be in. Computer programming is getting better every day. New frontiers are being reached by programmers and video gaming companies are leaving no stone unturned to filter out candidates having the best expertise in the deep field of computer programming.
Video Game Programmer Jobs
The video game industry is expanding faster than ever. It has penetrated deep into all markets, be it Asia, Europe, Africa, USA, UK or elsewhere. It is a favorite past-time of teenagers and youngsters all across the globe and even adults are not behind when it comes to playing video games. The popularity and growth of video gaming industry has time and again proved that it is here to stay and it will only become more innovative in the coming years. It is one of the best phases of video gaming sector and certainly, video gaming has come a very long since the days of Pac-Man and Frogger.
Video Game Programmer Job Description
Programmers in the video game industry give life to the ideas of video game designers. They write codes and make games run smoothly. Besides this, the programmers may also have to write codes for software and development tools that the programmer and his team might require in the running the video game without any errors. These programmers have to work in teams with designers and game developers to make a video game. Following positions can be held by programmers in the gaming industry;
- Game engine programmer
- Physics engine programmer
- Graphics engine programmer
- Artificial intelligence programmer
- Sound programmer
- Gameplay programmer
- Scripter
- UI programmer
- Input programmer
- Network programmer
- Game tools programmer
- Porting programmer
- Technology programmer
- Generalist
- Lead game programmer
Video game Programmer Education
Breathe computers. Breathe video games. Be crazy about video gaming and this industry is there to reward you. Indisputably, computer programming skills are the most recognized attributes in this field. It is said that an obsessive levels interest in programming is the secret to make your mark in this field. There are no shortcuts in this field and it is the talent solely that gives you recognition. Microsoft founder Bill Gates had an unusual craziness about programming during his college years and certainly, it worked for him. If you don’t have that child like curiosity and gusto to pursue, read and understand video games, don’t even think of entering it. It is a field that requires self motivated individuals who’re really passionate about their duties.
As such, there is no fixed or necessary formal education required in this field. Many successful video game programmers in the industry have no formal education in video programming. But they had one thing when they started their careers. They had deep interest and passion in computer programming and for most of them it was a great hobby, something they did for merriment and enjoyment. Nevertheless, not all of us can be like the few mavericks who have followed their heart with their intellectual prowess and hence formal education is there to help us develop the requisite skills to enter in the industry.
Regarding formal education, it is very obvious that you have got to pursue an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in computer programming, technical mathematics and similar subjects. There are some really good computer engineering colleges and don’t miss applying for them. It is good to discuss your career aspirations with your parents and prefer college counseling. During college years, give your heart and soul to programming. Do lots of internships, summer training and part-time jobs in video gaming companies to get a first hand experience of skills required. Even the University or college IT department may have some internship jobs for you.
Choose to learn and gain experience, as it always matters. Make yourself flawless in C++, JAVA and don’t forget to study the world famous gaming systems, developed by Sony, Microsoft and Nintendo. Even a master’s or doctoral in computer programming won’t hurt but if after bachelor’s degree, you get few years of work experience, it helps to scale up in the industry faster. You certainly need to have strong analytical skills and an eye for detail. In the recent years, numerous colleges have started various degree programs like Video Game Console Design, Introduction to Robotics, Graphics Programming with DirectX9, 3DS MAX, solely dedicated to video game programming. However, students go for full-fledged computer engineering degree as it has broad scope in the industry.
Video game programmer salaries average around US$50,000 and it is higher for lead programmers who have spent sufficient time in the industry. With furthest advancements in the designations and duties handled by an entry-level programmer, the salary can reach to as high as US$60,000 to US$70,000. Lastly, as we conclude this informational piece on video gaming career, it is imperative to understand that success doesn’t come easily in this field as it is full of competition and you’ve got to know your strengths really well to prove yourself!