Five Tips to Get Started on Your Game Development Career
Game development involves developing and programming the creative elements of video games. The term “video game developer” is often interchangeably used with the term “video game programmer.” For the most part, game developers help to build workable versions of games through computer code. The program aspects like the game’s mechanics and AI behavior and build a strong base for the game to run on. If you are interested in becoming a game developer, check out the following five helpful tips.
1. Understand the Game Development Process
Game development requires the cooperation of others. So, it is important you not only understand your role within the process but also the roles and duties of others. You should gain an excellent understanding of the game development process from concept to publishing. Furthermore, you should think about the types of games you would like to eventually develop. Game developers do not only create video games like RPGs and platform games. They also create online casino games like blackjack and video slots and work behind the scenes at online live casinos to provide real-time games like live online roulette. The more knowledge you have about every aspect of game development, the better placed you will be to pursue a career in the sector.
2. Learn Game Programming
Programming is an essential part of video game development, so it is crucial you learn the code used for developing games. The primary programming languages used are JavaScript, HTML5, C++ or C#. JavaScript and HTML5 are web languages, and the latter is best used for creating browser-based games. C++ and C# are object-oriented programming languages. They are the most commonly used programming languages for creating games.
3. Get an Education
While you can learn programming languages by yourself, if you want to get into game development more easily, it is best to go through a traditional education route where you can learn code and other elements of game development. You will find various game design-related courses at colleges and universities. And the higher qualification you have, the more you will stand out to employers. A bachelor’s degree in a subject like a computer science or software engineering can help you gain a solid foundation for pursuing a game development career. Doing internships and work experience is also highly recommended so that you can get an insider understanding of how professional game development companies work.
4. Create a Portfolio
Regardless of the route into game development that you choose, you can make sure you stand out from the crowd by building a portfolio. If you have the skill, time, and software, develop your own game or prototype game. That is one of the best ways to show potential employers your technical skills and abilities. Your portfolio should showcase your best video game programming samples.
5. Consider Your Career Progression
Armed with qualifications and a portfolio, you can apply for jobs at game studios. You will probably begin as a junior game designer. But that does not mean you have to stay put in that role. Once you have experience and knowledge of your industry, you could progress to become a lead designer on a project or a full-time senior designer. Another option is to become a freelancer. Even if your ultimate aim is to work for a top video game studio, freelancing is a good stepping stone where you get to learn your trade while also making money from your skills. Taking on freelancing jobs also allows you to build up your portfolio. Other career options include starting your own consultancy business, where you help companies with design elements or starting your very own game development studio.
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