What Is a Video Game Developer?
In short, a video game developer is someone who creates a video game, whether the game is designed for a single platform (like Microsoft’s Xbox 360 or Sony’s PlayStation 3) or multiple platforms, often including PCs. As opposed to the more narrowly focused jobs within game creation, including design and programming, the developer is responsible for the game’s overall story, content, tone, and everything else that makes up the final product. It’s analogous to being a film producer.
Video game developers often work as part of special development companies that create games, but it’s also common for developers to work in-house directly with game publishing companies in a more streamlined, silo-like production flow. Because of the variety of titles available and the skill required to make a good product, video game developers typically focus on one type of game — racing, adventure, first-person shooter, etc. — rather than spread themselves thin trying to cover all the bases.
How to Become a Video Game Developer
Anyone who wants to become a video game developer needs to focus on an education steeped in a variety of interlocking skill sets, including computer science, graphic design, and communication. Courses typically include introductory and advanced design that focuses on cutting-edge technology; basics of programming; and a variety of mass communication courses that help students learn how to get their ideas on paper and turn visions into concrete narratives.
Developers are also required to manage a variety of team-based needs and oversee production deadlines, so it’s also possible to enter the field by majoring in management and business and then marrying that with a love of video games. The job is ultimately a hybrid of many things, which is why it’s wise to seek out those who currently work in the field for advice and internship information. Nothing beats the experience of a real-world education done with real games.
Video Game Developer Career Outlook & Salary
Specific information for video game developers is often tougher to find, though the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics has plenty of breakdowns about software publishers, who work with and over developers. Thanks to a seemingly endless demand for new games and better tech, video game developers should see a significant increase in the number of salaried positions available through 2018. This is actually a step down from the insane growth seen in the 1990s, but that’s to be expected, thanks to an industry settling into a groove and a growing number of outsourced jobs.
Still, the field is a bright one for those with the right education and passion. It’s not uncommon for gross earnings to hover between $30 and $40 an hour for skilled professionals, which means the right employees can earn between $60,000 and $80,000 annually. Plus, they get to invent video games.
