The video gaming industry is one of the fastest-growing tech sectors to date. According to Statista, industry revenues are expected to reach $197 billion by the end of 2022. By 2026, the market would value at $321 billion.
As new titles are introduced each year and independent developers are entering the sector with fresh ideas, there will be even more opportunities available for people wanting a dream job in gaming. Whether you are just entering college or planning a career change, it’s possible to get started on the path to becoming a successful video game professional. Here’s a guide to help you level up:
1. Learn more about the industry
Thorough research goes a long way in helping you decide if a career in the gaming industry is perfect for you. Apart from learning about average salaries, you should also know what career path you can take. There are lots to choose from, including art direction and AI development. Depending on your preferred field, make sure you know everything there is to help you plan your journey.
The best way to get started is to ask people you know who are familiar with the industry. It also helps to join online groups, forums, and communities dedicated to gamers and industry professionals. Learning through the perspectives of people close to the gaming sector will give you a clear idea of what to expect as you set foot in the industry.
2. Get formal training
Entering the gaming industry is a dream for many, but beneath the surface, it requires acquiring skills that take a long time to master. Programmers, background artists, and motion capture engineers undergo years of professional training to become employable. So, if you are planning to start a career in creative and technical fields.
Obtaining a Bachelor’s degree would be the surest way to start your professional journey. Look for a university or any degree-granting institution offering programs that align with the needs of the gaming sector. In case you want to switch careers later in life, you can sign up for diploma or certificate programs for video game specialists. Whichever the case, make sure you choose a field or discipline that matches your goals.
3. Find a mentor
Apart from professional training, you should also look for a senior in the industry who can serve as your mentor. Participating in online groups and attending industry events are great ways to build professional networks. There’s also a good chance you will find a seasoned veteran in the industry who can provide you with real-world advice about surviving in the industry.
If you are taking up a degree in game design and development, you could join an internship program that lets you work in a major game company like EA Games or Rockstar. There, you will be able to work closely with people who are experts in the field you are interested in. Whether it’s programming or designing game characters, finding a mentor will help you mature faster as a professional and build your reputation in the industry.
4. Build a gaming portfolio
Once you start your career in the gaming industry, you need to make sure you’re visible to potential employers. It’s also important to provide companies with a portfolio of the best work in your preferred field.
If you’re aiming for a job as an art director, consider gathering concept sketches of characters and backgrounds. You can come up with an online portfolio on Behance or upload videos of your concepts to YouTube. It also helps if you can create a one-shot video game you can show to employers. As you build your portfolio, take time to widen your skills by joining workshops and seminars on the latest video game design approaches and tools.
5. Know where the jobs are
Once you have a solid portfolio, you can start looking for employment. It’s a good thing that the gaming industry doesn’t lack a diverse range of jobs in tech that match your skills and field of interest. It only takes knowing which platforms offer the jobs you want. LinkedIn should be top on your list because many of the world’s biggest gaming executives have a presence there. You just need to build a compelling profile that includes samples of the work you do.
It’s also possible to find work as a freelance professional. Sites like Upwork are great if you are looking for short-term employment or project-based jobs. Finding your dream job would take patience and a need to reach out to people or companies that might need your help.
Starting a career in the gaming industry doesn’t happen overnight, but taking the right steps will take you to where you need to be.
