Video game development is an exciting and rewarding field that combines creativity, technical skills, and passion. It involves designing, creating, testing, and maintaining video games for various platforms such as consoles, computers, smartphones, and tablets.
Introduction
Before we dive into the details of how to become a video game developer, let’s first explore the reasons why it is such a popular career choice. According to a report by Statista, the global video game market size was valued at USD 159.3 billion in 2020 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 8.7% from 2021 to 2028. This growth is due to the increasing demand for immersive gaming experiences and the proliferation of mobile devices that enable people to play games on-the-go.
Moreover, video game development offers a flexible work environment, high earning potential, and the opportunity to create something that brings joy to millions of people around the world. It also allows developers to be creative, solve complex problems, and work with cutting-edge technology.
Step 1: Determine Your Area of Expertise
Video game development is a vast field, and there are many areas of expertise within it. Some of the most popular areas include game design, programming, art and animation, sound and music, and production. Each area requires different skills and knowledge, so it’s essential to determine which area you want to specialize in.
For example, if you have a passion for creating immersive worlds and storylines, game design might be the right path for you. If you are a coding enthusiast and enjoy solving complex problems, programming could be your calling. Alternatively, if you have a talent for drawing and animating characters, art and animation could be your area of expertise.
It’s worth noting that some video game development roles require a combination of skills. For instance, game programmers often need to have some knowledge of game design and art and animation. Therefore, it can be beneficial to learn about different areas of expertise and see which ones align with your interests and strengths.
Step 2: Get the Right Education and Training
Once you have determined your area of expertise, the next step is to get the right education and training. There are many educational paths you can take to become a video game developer, including formal degrees, bootcamps, online courses, and self-study.
Formal degrees such as Bachelor’s or Master’s in Computer Science, Game Design, or a related field can provide you with a solid foundation in the technical skills and theory required for video game development. These degrees typically take four to six years to complete and include coursework on topics such as programming, mathematics, physics, and computer graphics.
Bootcamps are another option for those who want to learn video game development quickly. Bootcamps are intensive, immersive programs that typically take three to twelve months to complete. They provide hands-on training in specific areas of video game development, such as programming or art and animation. Some bootcamps also offer job placement services upon completion.
Online courses and self-study can be beneficial for those who want more flexibility in their learning. Online courses allow you to learn at your own pace and on your own schedule. Self-study involves learning through online resources such as tutorials, video lectures, and forums. While these options may not provide the same level of structure and support as formal degrees or bootcamps, they can still be a useful supplement to your education.