How to Become a Game Developer

• Translate specifications into efficient code
• Create and maintain the engine on which the game relies
• Produce prototypes and create code to implement them
• Create a development schedule and determine milestones
• Create unit tests and quality assurance procedures
• Fix bugs and resolve other problems to maintain the game
• Animate characters and objects

Game Developers are handsomely rewarded for their services. According to Glassdoor, most Game Developers earn between $47,000 and $88,000 per year, with the national average at $56,000.

Salaries in the sector vary widely depending on the company and the location. Game Developers in San Francisco report earning an average of $70,200 per year. The same Game Developers in Seattle would earn $64,500.

Your salary will also vary depending on experience. Senior Game Developers (developers with extensive educational and/or work experience) earn an average of $110,000 per year. Keep in mind that this does not include stock options, employee benefits, or other perks offered by some tech companies.

1. Earn a university or college degree in computer science, animation or related field
2. Attend a coding bootcamp specializing in game development
3. Self-teaching using the many resources freely available on the Internet

1. Game engine:

   Game Developers need to master at least one game engine. Unity is the most popular development platform for creating multi-platform and interactive games. Other companies use other tools, such as the Unreal Engine. Game Developers need to know how to use a game engine to create, update and maintain a game.

2. Programming language:

   Game Developers need to know at least one programming language. The most popular one for platform games is C#, which is similar to Java, another language you may be expected to know. Game Developers may also need to know Python and Lua.

3. 2D/3D modeling:

   To become a Game Developer, you should be able to model 2D/3D assets using tools like Unity, Maya, Blender and RealFlow. You will also be expected to manage assets for a game, and iterate upon existing asset models.

4. Programming specialty:

   These professionals must master at least one programming specialty. For example, if you’re working on game mechanics, you need to know about animation and physics; those working on multiplayer support need to know about web services and networking.

5. Prototyping and testing:

   As a Game Developer, you should be able to produce prototypes of gameplay ideas and features, including low-fidelity and high-fidelity versions. You should also be able to write test cases and test plans as well as execute a game test effectively.

• Teamwork:

  As a Game Developer, you will most likely work in a team, so you must feel comfortable working with others. You will be expected to lend a hand to your teammates if they need help.

• Creativity:

  Making games is a very creative endeavor. Game Developers need to find creative solutions to difficult programming problems, such as designing the assets of a game, and figuring out how the player interacts with the product.

• Problem-solving:

  All positions that involve programming require a high degree of problem-solving. Game Developers must be able to think critically and break down problems into smaller components that can be tackled individually. You will be expected to anticipate the challenges that users could encounter in a game and find solutions.

1. Learn about game development by attending a bootcamp, earning a degree at a university or college, or teaching yourself using resources available online
2. Develop and practice your technical skills
3. Build your portfolio
4. Write your technical resume
5. Search for jobs