The video game industry continues to expand, with several titles being developed each year across devices and platforms. That is why people who love games should not limit themselves to merely playing. Nowadays, there are tons of opportunities to be part of the development process. Some can work in game animation, in narrative design, or in other areas. In line with this, the volume of games has created steady demand for quality assurance, which makes developers in need of people for game testing. It may not be as technical as other roles in the space, but it is vital to ensure games are fun, stable, and bug-free before launch.
If you want to blend your love for gaming with a legit career, read on! This article explains what game testing is, its significance, and all the necessary things one should know to take the first step into the world of game development.
Understanding Game Testing
Game testing pertains to the process of playing early builds of a video game to identify bugs, crashes, and other errors. However, this job is not just casual gaming. It is extensive and repetitive. Game testers must test all possible scenarios in the game and record every issue. Most video game testers have specific aspects to focus on. They work closely with programmers and the like and operate on tight deadlines before launch. The entire rigorous process enables seamless experiences for players.
Tips for Securing a Job in Game Testing
- Know the Basic Skills.
Learn the necessary soft and hard skills through formal education or a comprehensive quality assurance course.
- Get Experience and Master Tools.
Gain experience by joining public beta tests, volunteering in community projects, or freelancing. At the same time, familiarize yourself with the necessary tools, such as PCs, consoles, scripting languages, and software for managing projects or tracking bugs.
- Build Connections and Apply for Game Testing Roles.
After establishing the foundation, it is now time to look for and apply for jobs to gain real-world experience. It will also be the perfect way to continue improving.
Key Takeaway
Starting a career in game testing is a practical way to enter the gaming industry. With the right skills and experience, beginners can land entry-level positions, such as a beta tester, functional tester, QA tester, usability tester, and more. Aside from getting exclusive seats to play unreleased games, it is a rewarding career that gives growth opportunities. Plus, people in game testing can earn $47,000 all the way up to around $116,000. What a gaming bonus!
Note: This article draws on sources including Careerist, CG Spectrum, ELVTR, and Indeed to ensure depth, quality, and accuracy.
