If you’re fascinated with video games and dream of creating your own, then a career in game development may be ideal for you. But what does a video game developer do, exactly, and what degree do you need to be a game developer? We dive into this and more below so you can get a better feel for this career path.
What Is Game Development?
Game development refers to the process of designing, developing, and releasing a video game from start to finish. There are many different components to creating a new video game, and the finished result is always a blend of art, storytelling, and technical programming. Ultimately, game developers are the creative minds responsible for transforming concepts and ideas into reality.
What Do Game Developers Do?
A game developer’s exact roles and responsibilities vary from one project to the next. However, some of the most common job duties game developers may carry out daily include:
- Conceptualization and design – Idea generation and game design
- Programming and development – Coding, game engines, and tool development
- Art and design – Art production, animation, and audio design
- Testing and quality assurance – Game testing, feedback, and integration
- Release and post-release activities – Deployment and post-release support
Roles in Game Development
Game development combines creativity, technology, and storytelling—which can involve a variety of specialized roles that work together to bring a game from concept to launch. Examples of specific roles in game development include:
- Game designer – Focuses mainly on the game’s function as well as creating systems and rules related to the game
- Game programmer – Develops the specific software needed to create a video game, including game development tools and codebases
- Artist – Creates two- and three-dimensional art that is used to build a video game
- Sound designer – Creates and edits sound effects, music, and ambient noise to be used in a video game
- Narrative designer – Responsible for the game’s overarching story or narrative plot
- Quality assurance tester (QA tester) – Plays video games that are currently under development to check for errors, bugs, or glitches
- Producer – Leads teams, manages schedules, and ensures video games are completed on schedule and on budget
- Level designer – Designs and creates specific levels and maps within a video game
- Community manager – Works to build, grow, and support communities that grow around a game
- Technical artist – Responsible for integrating visual content from other artists or animators into a game
Is Game Development a Good Career?
Contemplating whether jobs in game development are right for you? Only you can answer that question based on your own career goals and aspirations, but there are a number of benefits to consider that come along with working in game development.
First, game development is passion-driven work. Creating games is a dream job for many, and they can combine a personal interest in video games with a rewarding career. This line of work also allows for immense creative expression, whether you build characters, craft exciting narratives, or design worlds or levels.
In addition, game development offers a lot of room for technological innovation. The gaming industry works with all kinds of cutting-edge technology, and developers can contribute to the next significant advancement in gaming themselves.
Thanks to such diverse career opportunities in this field, working in game development also means you can find a niche that matches your unique skills and interests. From programming and art to sound design and writing, there is a vast range of roles to explore.
Video game development is an expanding market with the potential for high earnings depending on the experience level. This industry continues to grow at an impressive rate, outpacing many other entertainment sectors.
How much do game developers make? This can vary based on numerous factors and successful games can generate significant revenue, with various monetization strategies available for game developers.
What Degree Do You Need to Be a Game Developer?
Wondering how to become a game developer? Specific hiring criteria and game developer requirements can vary from one job to the next, but having a bachelor’s degree in game development or a related field could maximize your chances of employment while helping build out your knowledge and skill set.
Although this is not an exhaustive list of all the potential degrees that could lead to a career as a game developer, it is a solid starting point to consider.
Bachelor’s Degree in Game Software Development or Design
A bachelor’s degree in game software development, such as the program offered by Baker College, is tailored to the gaming industry and will cover essential knowledge and skills you need to thrive in this field. Examples of key topics addressed in this type of program include:
- Game design principles
- Storytelling
- Level design
- Use of specific game development tools
Game Development Courses
Likewise, a game software development degree program will include specific courses in game development, such as:
- Game Design and Analysis
- Unreal Game Programming
- Unity Game Programming
Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science
A bachelor’s degree in computer science can also open the doors of opportunity to a career in game development. This type of program offers a comprehensive understanding of programming, software engineering, and computer systems that is crucial for game programmers and other technical roles within the field.
Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Graphics, Animation, or Digital Arts
Another potential gaming BS to consider is a bachelor’s in computer graphics, animation, or digital arts. This type of program may be ideal for aspiring game artists, animators, or video designers because the curriculum is more focused on creating visual elements that can be integrated into game design.
Bachelor’s Degree in Software Engineering
Similar to a computer science degree—but with a stronger focus on software development methodologies and project management—a bachelor’s degree in software engineering is another possibility for those interested in a game development career.
Business and Marketing
Last but not least, a degree in business and marketing (such as a bachelor’s in business management or a bachelor’s in marketing) can provide knowledge that is applicable to the business side of game development, including project management, marketing strategies, and monetization models.
How to Become a Game Developer: 7 Steps
Transitioning from being a gamer to a game developer is a journey fueled by a passion for games, dedication to learning, and commitment to creative and technical development. Follow these steps to launch your career in game development and maximize your chances of success.
1. Cultivate a Deep Understanding of Games
Consider expanding your own gaming experience beyond your favorite genres to include others like indie games, classics, and other genres you might not normally play. This will allow you to learn more about their mechanics, storytelling, user experience, and other elements that contribute to their playability and appeal.
2. Educate Yourself
Next, consider pursuing an actual degree in game development and explore your options. The right program can help you learn coding languages, game engines, and other essential skills for this line of work.
3. Develop Technical Skills
Additionally, you will need to develop your technical skills, starting with the languages most commonly used in the industry (like C++ for Unreal Engine or C# for Unity). By becoming familiar with these languages and their engines, you’ll be better set up for success.
4. Start Small
Consider creating mini projects by developing small games or mods, allowing you to apply what you’ve learned and start building your portfolio. Participating in “game jam” events (in which you endeavor to make video games from scratch) could help empower you to practice your skills, meet with other developers, and complete projects within tight deadlines.
5. Build a Portfolio
Be sure to compile all your completed projects in a portfolio to showcase your skills, creativity, and versatility in game development. It’s also wise to create a professional website where you can host your portfolio, network with others, and gain visibility.
6. Network and Collaborate
As you work toward a career in game development, make a point to engage with the community by participating in online forums, social media groups, and even local meetups or events such as conferences. This can be a great way to find new collaborative projects while learning new skills, sharing ideas, and understanding different aspects of game development.
7. Gain Practical Experience
Finally, explore internship options that will help you gain some real-world experience in the field. Game development studios can be a great source of internships, though taking on freelance projects can also provide you with some practical and hands-on experience to help you grow as a game developer and understand more nuances of the field.
Earn Your Game Development Degree at Baker
Ready to embark on your path to an exciting career in game development? Baker College is here to help with a wide range of degree options to kickstart your journey, including our bachelor’s degree in game software development. Get in touch to learn more today!