Working in the Gaming Industry

by Staff & Contributors on August 17, 2020

in Gaming

If you have considered working in the gaming industry, but thought the jobs would be too competitive or niche, you may be surprised. While many people would love to work in this field, if you have the talent and passion, you will likely be able to find a job. Many people think that if they don’t have a specific degree, such as design, computer programming, or something related, that they cannot find a job in the industry.

While most of these positions will want you to have an undergraduate degree, there is generally no specific specialty required. Being able to demonstrate your knowledge, passion, and skill are important factors. If you have a passion for gaming but are not interested in programming, there are still career paths to follow. Like any industry, these companies need sales, marketing, and other support staff. If you want to be more hands-on, developers need designers and artists to work alongside their programmers.

Set Yourself Up for Success

There are a variety of ways you can choose to enter the field. While you are working to break-in, there are things you can do to make the process less stressful and increase the odds of success. If you are already employed, hang on to your job. There are ways you can transition into the industry without quitting your current position.

If you are looking for a job, consider taking on a lower-level position as a tester. This gives you access to the field, and you can get a better idea of the different positions and responsibilities. Like many jobs, it can be much easier to be promoted from within. Refinancing your student loans before you start the transition process can ease the financial burden of working at a lower-paying job. Refinancing can save you money each month, freeing up cash for other expenses.

Consider an Internship

If you are a college student or a recent graduate, look for an internship in the gaming industry. An internship will give you a better idea of the many different roles available in the industry and can help you narrow down your focus. Internships are also valuable because, if the company is happy with your work, you may receive a return offer after you graduate.

Start a Gaming Blog

If you have a clear and engaging writing style, starting a blog can be a great way to move into the industry. You can work on your schedule, and provide blog updates that include game reviews, new releases, and news. Your goal is two-fold. Building up a nice following will give you exposure to others in the industry, which provides valuable networking opportunities. A well-written and engaging blog will also act as a portfolio showcasing your knowledge of the industry for interviews.

Build Your Own Games

If game development is your goal, building small games is a great way to break into the field. These indie games may never gain much traction, but they allow you to showcase your design and programming skills. Again, this is a way to build a community as well as creating something to add to your portfolio.

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