Read on to find out why being a video game designer is shooting to the top of the most-wanted careers list.
1. A Casual Yet Enthusiastic Work Environment
The culture of game designers is made of individuals that are living their highest passion. Because of this, they are enthusiastic, dedicated, and creative. They are able to experience the gratification of creating something that not only they are personally passionate about, but that others are also able to enjoy. This is what helps makes the game design work environment different from any other industry.
2. A Degree Isn’t Totally Necessary—But it is a Plus
Though most video game designers obtain a college degree or certification, it isn’t absolutely required. Many colleges don’t offer a specific degree for game design, so check out game design schools to ensure that you can get a job in the field by getting involved in a great program. Many developers will hire a designer if they know that they are capable of making a game; however, having the degree will provide hands-on learning that will be valuable when seeking a job.
3. Use Analytical and Creative Thinking
Those who design games are accountable for conceptualizing many parts of a game, from the rules to the themes and structure. There are some specialized areas of work like level design, script writing, design of game play, and level mechanics, but all areas use artistic skills as well as technological knowledge. It is vital to be organized and analytical when designing video games. These qualities will determine how you solve problems, like how a character will react to an obstacle in the game, and how the player will score points in relation to missions that are completed.
4. Playing Games is Part of Your Job
One thing that leads many people into the field of game design is their love of playing games—something that is not only encouraged, but required in the field. Designers are able to get an early preview of a game that they are working on, even when they are only responsible for a portion of it. They are also able to play other designers’ games before anyone else with the sole purpose of analyzing them. The benefits are much more than just receiving a few game coupons.
5. Competitive Salary
As part of the larger career field of software development, the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the median annual salary for a software developer is about $97,990. The salary will vary based on the specialization inside of the field and other factors. Those working on the West coast may anticipate a higher salary, as it is the Mecca of game design.
6. Enter a Dynamic Industry with a Steady Career
The industry of this career is constantly changing. Those that are part of it are continually learning new things while staying in a field that is well established and provides security. Even over the last 10 years, video games have evolved into a subculture of their own, and that will not be fading anytime soon.
7. Do More Than Just Entertain
Video games provide more than just entertainment for bored preteens. They have been crafted to help with a number of real life situations, like depression, stress, and weight problems. Video games are utilized in soldier training, children’s’ schooling, and space mission preparation. What was once used solely as entertainment for children is now an essential tool that helps improve the world, as well as helping some individuals overcome various challenges.
Conclusion
Video game designers are surrounded by like-minded individuals who share the same passion for creating something out of nothing, working in an ever-evolving field that provides a way to turn ideas into reality.
