Becoming a Video Game Designer

Looking forward to getting a job as a video game designer? Well, there are just a couple of simple steps to follow in order to get that dream job of yours. First, it is time to reinforce your knowledge about how to land a spot in one of the most rapidly growing and exciting industries in the world today. Some need-to-know pointers below will set your mind in the right direction and make sure you follow the best course of action possible.

Video game designing is by far a gut wrenching and highly competitive career to maintain. Deadlines have to be met and the fast paced industry will never be willing to wait for you. It can be very unforgiving but at the same time rewarding. With high pay and the luxury of letting your imagination run wild in order to create a world others can explore, it's a fantasy job many aspire for.

So if you think your ready for a career that uses your unlimited imagination as its foundation, then carefully read and follow these steps below.

Information is a tool which cannot be overlooked, especially when it concerns the gaming industry. Being up-to-date with the latest tricks and tools of the trade and game developments are essential. Check out various related magazines, whether they be print or online, to get a broad view and perspective of current events. Make sure you get a wide breadth of knowledge on the different genres and multiple platforms of the industry so you are able to adapt your knowledge to this ever growing market..

Developing your skills in areas such as writing, storyboarding and computer knowledge are huge plus points for you as a video game designer. Having the know-how to do what others can't will give you an edge in any industry. So be ready to acquire more knowledge on how to enhance your skills in these different areas. Personal qualities such as leadership and management skills are also important. You can develop them on your own by participating in various independent projects with a team of professionals such as yourself. Best way to gain skills can sometimes be simple hands-on experience.

As mentioned above, experience is one of the best ways to go to land yourself a good job in the video game industry. Aside from independent projects, you can also try applying for internship in different companies that offer it. You will gain invaluable experience through this process and most importantly get to know the who's who in the industry. These contacts can boost your chances of getting hired in the future. So be prepared to work long shifts and sometimes even work for free! These are some of the sacrifices needed at times to prepare you for the real deal.

There are two proven ways to pump up your CV. By having a history of creating add-on levels for games such as Unreal Tournament and Quake or working on a MUD (multi-user dungeon). This will give you an added edge on your application. If you have ever created conversions for other games or made an entirely new game, put it in your CV. You must make them realize they are not hiring a dork, but an exceptional design artist who is willing to venture into the realm of gaming and is not afraid to use his creativity to spawn something new.

Creating a portfolio about yourself and your creative designs is a must in this industry. Try to consolidate your collection of game proposals into one impressive presentation you can showcase in front of your future employers. This will enhance your resume ten fold and make them drool over your qualities as game designer. It will prove that you are professional, intelligent and enormously talented. You can expect a job offer mid way through your presentation.

The best way to apply is to send as many applications as you can, so your chances for a interview and presentation will be greater. You can also focus on those companies you would like to work with by tailoring your portfolio and resume specifically for them. There are also many online job sites with listings for companies that urgently need game designers. They give out contact information for developers, agencies and studio's so that you may send your portfolio and resume to them.

One way to expand your network in the gaming industry is to participate in various annual trade shows. Events such as E3, ECTS and the CGDC brings all the different personalities of the industry together. Whether it be making casual acquaintances or meeting new and old friends, it is always good to mingle in the crowd. Never be afraid to approach those who can help further your career. There are also many organizations that can help you meet other professionals in your field, all you need is to seek them out and become a member.

If you have received a notice of an invitation for an interview then you have made it to where many have not! Now, compose yourself and relax those edgy nerves. You have made it to the interview and you don't want to mess up your chances of landing the job. Be confident, witty and professional in front of the interviewer. You can expect a lot of questions regarding current game-related events and the industry in general. If you have read and applied the previous steps then this should be a no brainier for you. Be as natural as you can be, more importantly...just be yourself! You did not get this far because you had nothing to show, you got this far because you are a skillful, professional and talented aspiring video game designer.

Once you are there and have the job then it is time to broaden your horizons. Secure your career in the industry by establishing yourself to be one of the experts in the field. You can undergo further specialized training in your company or gain more experience by taking on sideline projects involving related industries like television and movies. The more projects you finish then the more you can add to your portfolio as your accomplishments. You have reached the point where you can define your own limits to your success and growth for your career.


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