The video game industry has blown up over the past decades into a multibillion-dollar industry that employs millions of designers, programmers, and other creative fields.
On the surface, the beauty of the graphics is what draws you in, but without game programmers, these games would never even see the light of day.
But how do you start a career as a game programmer? Let’s take a look at some key information.
WHAT is a Game Programmer?
A game programmer is a person who writes the code and is sure that it works so that the game works properly when played. As a game programmer, you will take the designs made by developers and engineers and turn them into code that acts as instructions that are followed by the computer.
Programmers also help create apps and programs to make sure that the end result is what was expected when the project was begun. If there are any problems in the running of the software, they will also diagnose and fix the errors in code.
Game Programmer RESPONSIBILITIES
With a career as a game programmer, you will find your self executing the following duties.
- Using multiple different computer languages to write programs (C++, Java, SQL, and others)
- Upgrading programs
- Testing programs for problems and fixing the code responsible
- Test and create code
- Simplify writing by the use of code libraries
As a programmer, you will work with developers and may even share duties with them. Being a game programmer gives you the skills to do some of the developer’s tasks as well. Some programmers design software, build models, and charts of how the code will be written and build the interface design of the game.
Programmers use IDE or an integrated development environment to execute all of the preliminary steps to ensure the code is up to the task before finalizing it in the game itself.
A new field that seems to be growing rapidly is SaaS, which is software used as a service. This uses the internet to deliver software and programs to businesses.
Game Programmer SALARY
In the US, the average salary for a game programmer is about $95,000 a year which, when broken down, comes out to about $45/hr.
With more experience, this salary moves up well over $123,000 a year. If you are just starting in the field, your salary will typically start (depending on the size of the company) somewhere between $50,000 and $70,000 a year.
Qualification & EDUCATION Needed
Most game programmers start with either an associate’s or a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field of study. While earning their associate’s or bachelor’s degree, the programmer studies and specializes in one or two coding languages.
While going to school, programmers will also gain practical experience with all the duties they will be doing once in the workforce. As a game programmer, there will need to be continuing your education in burgeoning technologies.
Some companies require certifications on top of the degree. Coding language certification is always a nice addition to the resume.
Other good skills to also have are the following.
- Analytical skills
- Detail-oriented
- Troubleshooting
- Focus & concentration
How to APPLY
Game programmers will need to have a portfolio that showcases their work. This will help prospective employers know their competency level and style.
Starting at smaller, lesser-known companies and game studios is the right option if you are a new game programmer. Many major game companies and studios require experience before even considering bringing a game programmer on board.
There are many online resources that you can use to find game programmer positions. Or you can send copies of your resume and portfolio out to studios and companies that interest you.
If you apply this way, you may want to first check out the website and the careers tab of said company for any requirements or to see if they are hiring.
If you’re looking to apply other than your portfolio, you will want a fresh, crisp resume, so if you need help drafting one, check out this link.
Summary
Game programming is a growing industry and one that can be used in multiple business models. You will need the required education, passion, and patience to find a job.
Hopefully, the information we laid out above helped you with the big hurdles of how to build a career as a game programmer.