How to Become a Video Game Professional?

Buying Xbox and playing advanced video games are cool, but have you ever thought about those who have been developing them for you for ages? 

In the era where everyone aims to keep their video game collection updated by spending thousands of dollars on them, some aspire to pursue video gaming as their profession.

This is where this article is going to help! This article will enlighten you on everything you need to know, from the basics of starting video gaming as a career to becoming a video game icon. 

Video Gaming Industry Then vs Now

Video gaming is a new aspect that has targeted the markets since the 2000s. But, no, this entertainment aspect is as old as the computers. It started somewhere in the 1950s and made its way to the more complex gaming ecosystem in the early 80s.

The first video game to be invented was Tennis for Two, developed in 1958. At that time, games were not solely meant to entertain. As the developments were noticed, there were games based on instructional programs and some for research purposes.

Over the last 70-80 years, significant transformations have been noticed in the gaming industry. After the internet had impacted the globe, online gaming emerged. It connected enthusiastic gamers worldwide, which led to innovations in the field. 

Types of Video Game Professionals

Video Gaming doesn’t involve only a single sort of profession. Instead, it integrates a bunch of opportunities for Video Game professionals.

Just like the name indicates, video game designers have expanded the gaming industry by developing games one after the other. They are those who, solo or with teams, create the game's objective and theme, design characters, and identify its features. 

Game Programmers are those who turn the designs into reality. They learn and apply the language required to transform the concepts into codes. The primary programming language used in development is C or C++. Programmers primarily work on the scripts made by the designers as a guide. Code the instructions, manage all the technicalities, and ensure the smooth development of the game. 

The advancements in the cryptocurrency world have also been intertwined with the video gaming industry and are helpful for programmers. One example of this is the in-game transactions that can be done using platforms like Coingate, enabling game platforms and developers to broaden the scope of payment options. Programmers can use the option to incorporate crypto payments for the untapped market, which prefers paying in digital currency.

A gaming artist, or sometimes intermixed with the Animator, gives dimension to the characters. They add textures to the characters and deal with all the mandatory lighting and shading effects to create visuals.

With the transformation in the gaming world, 2D to 3D transformation has also been acknowledged over the years. Recent advancements are transitioning to 4D/5D, thanks to artists working to change perceptions. 

This professional category is the only one that is recognized now. QA tester deals with the website on which the game’s debut has to be made. The website’s normal functioning, upgradation, and accessibility are the responsibilities of QA testers.

They help identify the issues that cause hurdles in development. Prevent the complications and improve the scalability of the User-Experience (UI).

Essentials of Climbing Career Ladder

In 2023, the gaming industry has generated a revenue of around $187.7 billion. This exponentially increasing revenue means the sector will continue progressing for a while. To make your mark, you must know the essentials of pursuing video gaming as a career!

The main four programming languages currently in use are C++, C#, JavaScipt, and Swift. C++ has the most extensive user base and has been the best programming language until now. The reason behind this is its efficient execution of speed and memory.

C# seamlessly integrates with Visual Studio, giving access to large sets and tools needed to develop games smoothly. JavaScript is the most accessible language to learn, probably best for beginners. Then comes the Swift, which is the best for Apple projects.

Once you have started working on your projects, you need to know how the project’s advertisement has to be done. Build a strong portfolio that displays every aspect of your work. 

Know the market you will step in. Research the market’s demand, aspects to be worked on, and your competitors.

No matter how proficient you have become, you must keep updated with the latest advancements. The better you adapt to changes, the better you will grow professionally.

Learning from those who have been in the field for years and impacted the industry dramatically helps. No matter which specific aspect you want to choose, you will need guidance from experts for sure. 

Conclusion

With all that said, choosing the right path is as crucial as the expertise to pursue video gaming as a profession. Whether you aspire to create visual experiences, design what’s in your mind, or code for those designers to make their imagination come into reality, you will get endless opportunities. Just remember to embrace all the challenges efficiently and skillfully.