Remember that a team of 5-10 employees in an independent studio will work completely differently than a team of over 1000 people, such as Ubisoft or EA. So think about the type of environment in which you are likely to excel. But in both cases, learning how to adapt quickly and work under pressure will help you succeed.
Ways to excel in game programming:
One effective way to excel in the competition is to understand the roles and other departments in the video game industry. This will not only enhance your programming skills, but also make you a better team member, as you will gain a strong understanding of what happens before and after your role in the game development cycle. It is helpful to consider taking a course in game design, or in virtual production and real-time 3D technology.
Best game programming software:
There are a variety of software options to choose from, but if you want to create games professionally, it is best to learn industry-standard programming languages and software used by major studios such as C++, Java, and Unreal Engine. This can reduce learning time and increase your chances of employment.
Here are 5 free programming tools to get started:
- Unreal Engine
- Unity 3D
- GameMaker Studio 2
- Construct 3
- Godot Engine
Expected salaries for game programmers:
According to ZipRecruiter, the average salary for a programmer is $86,404 annually, which is much higher than the national average of $54,132. The salary for a lead can exceed $100,000 annually.
Salaries vary based on experience, location, studio size, and can vary significantly above or below these averages. Lead/senior programmers and technical directors may exceed these salaries due to their years of experience and knowledge.
How to become a game programmer?
Do you need formal education to become a game programmer? There is no definitive answer to that. However, you need some experience or skills and a resume that includes impressive work to get a job. The industry is extremely competitive, so educational courses led by industry experts can help you gain the skills you need and stand out among applicants.
You can learn programming on your own and get a job, but you will need strong discipline and knowledge of the latest tools and technologies used by major studios. Some self-taught programmers have spent years working on their own games and have strong portfolios to show.
Educational books and lessons are great places for continuous learning, but if you want to improve your skills to a professional level, look for official courses in game programming.
When comparing courses, make sure they are taught by industry professionals who have worked on AAA games at major studios.
3 tips for getting a game programmer job:
Build a resume with strong work: Work on diverse projects and dedicate time to building your resume. Showcase your best work and demonstrate your programming skills.
Get job support.
Take advantage of workshops.
In addition to the above, here are three additional tips to help you excel:
Confidence:
You will undergo many tests and interviews. To surpass these stages, you must be confident in yourself and your skills. The way to gain that confidence is through training, working on projects, and pushing yourself out of your comfort zone. Expand your knowledge.
Research:
There are many conferences, lectures, blogs, and job postings available. Learn about what professionals are discussing and discover what companies are looking for in beginner game programmers. Familiarize yourself with the terms and trends in the industry.
Networking:
Join a forum, attend meetings, and make your name known.
Additional resources:
The following links will help you become a video game programmer:
Good reference sites:
For industry jobs:
Great conferences to build relationships:
