Computer Games Developer
What is the work like?
Computer games developers produce games for PCs, games consoles, the internet and mobile phones. The work may involve developing new games or updating existing titles.
A game can take several months or even years to produce. The development process involves many stages that lead up to a game's release, from creating ideas and characters to programming and testing. Many different people can work on each stage in different roles, for example:
- designers decide what a game looks like and how it plays – as a designer, you might come up with your own original ideas, or work from an existing concept
- as an artist or animator, you would create the game's visual characters, objects and scenery and bring them to life – you might produce concept art and storyboards at the planning stage, or use computer modelling and animation software during the production stage
- as a programmer, you would create the code to make the game work – you could specialise in developing graphics, artificial intelligence (AI), or gameplay software
- as a quality assurance (QA) tester, you would check playability and reliability, and report any problems or bugs to the development team
- as a producer or project manager, you would oversee the whole process, and make sure that the finished game was delivered to the publisher or distributor on time.
What qualifications and experience will employers look for?
To work as a games designer, artist or programmer, you will usually need a relevant BTEC HND, foundation degree or degree.
Several colleges and universities offer courses in computer games design or development. You could also get into the industry with other relevant degree subjects like:
- computer science or software engineering
- animation, graphic design, fine art or illustration
- interactive media
- maths or physics
- multimedia design.
The most useful courses include practical skills and work placements – many people find their first job in the games industry through work placements they do as part of their degree. See Skillset’s website for a list of industry-endorsed courses. Check with colleges and universities about course content and entry requirements.
A popular way to get into the games industry is as a quality assurance (QA) tester. You do not need a degree to start at this level, but you must have plenty of experience of game playing and in-depth knowledge of game platforms and styles. It is also useful to have some knowledge of programming.
When you are looking for work in the computer games industry, employers will want to see proof of your talent and creativity. You will need to show examples of your work, which could include completed game projects, ideas for games or programmes, artwork, or a 'showreel' CD or DVD of animation work.
You can also show commitment to joining the industry by attending games festivals and events, and keeping yourself up to date with computer game magazines and websites.
What further training and development can I do?
You will usually learn on the job from experienced staff. You will start at a junior level and work under the direction of a lead designer, artist or programmer.
You should keep up to date with industry developments throughout your career. It will be useful to learn more software packages that are relevant to your job, for example:
- 3ds Max, Maya or Direct X, for artists and animators
- C, C++, Assembler and various AI tools, for programmers
- Logic Audio or Cool Edit Pro, for audio engineers.
Many other packages are available, and some companies also create software to meet their own needs. See Skillset's website to search for media courses, including a wide range of short courses for the computer games industry.
Where can I go for more information?
London
SW1E 6DR
21 Caledonian Road
London
N1 9GB
Tel: 0808 100 8094 (Scotland)
Tel: 08000 121 815 (Wales)
If you would like to discuss your career options with a learning adviser, call 0800 100 900 or use our online enquiry form
Alternatively, you can visit our website at: www.direct.gov.uk/careersadvice
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What salary and other benefits can I expect?
- Starting salaries for artists and programmers are usually around £20,000 a year.
- Experienced and skilled designers, lead programmers and producers usually earn around £35,000 to £45,000.
Many companies also offer bonuses and share schemes for successfully completing projects.
Figures are intended as a guideline only.
What are the hours and working conditions?
Working hours in the computer games industry can vary. For many jobs your standard hours will be 9am to 5pm, but you may also need to work unsocial hours and overtime to meet deadlines.
The work can be office- or studio-based, depending on your role. You will spend most of your time sitting at a computer.
What skills and knowledge will I need?
- excellent computer skills
- a wide knowledge and understanding of computer games
- creativity and imagination
- a logical approach to problem-solving
- good teamworking and communication skills
- flexibility and adaptability
- the ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines
- patience and attention to detail
- willingness to keep up with industry developments and learn new skills.
What opportunities are there?
The computer games industry is a growing and fast-moving one, with many opportunities for people with the right skills – animation, camera, lighting, mobile technology and scriptwriting skills are particularly in demand. Freelance contracts are common.
Around half of the UK games industry is based in London and the south-east of England. Other significant areas are Bristol, the north-west, the West Midlands, Sheffield, Leeds, Dundee and Edinburgh.
Jobs may be advertised on games industry websites and specialist online recruitment agencies. However, many jobs are not advertised, so you could also find work by approaching companies directly, and by developing contacts in the industry.
You may find the following useful for job vacancies and general reading (links open in a new window):
Blitz Games
Work in Games
Games Tester
Games Recruit
Games Industry.biz
Datascope
MCV
We do not accept responsibility for the content of external sites.
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