A video game designer envisions, plans, and creates multi-player games for the interactive entertainment industry. Communicate with engineers, programmers, and a team of artists to develop game features that retain players for long periods of time. They strive to extend the gaming experience by implementing score tracking methods and other ways to enhance competition among players. Video game designers usually work in an office, in a cubicle or an open office setting. They regularly use computers, specialized design software, and technologically advanced equipment.
Video game developers may work long hours to meet deadlines for clients. Work is both physical and mental, and technical ability is crucial for this career. A Bachelor’s degree in game design or a related field is preferable. However, video game designers with a proven portfolio of successful design work with high-quality products may be good candidates for some companies. Must have a strong understanding of statistics and mathematical skills to analyze data and player feedback. Effective written and verbal skills are necessary to illustrate game mechanics, features, diagrams, and prototypes in documentation.
May be hired by a large corporation, such as Electronic Arts, or a small, private company of developers. Must have a passion for playing video games and an understanding of interaction design principles and interrelated game systems. Video game designers must use their time efficiently, collaborate well with others in a team environment, and be self-motivated and detail-oriented in order to complete multiple tasks on tight deadlines. They may attend the annual Game Developers Conference, the largest meeting of video game designers in the world.
Video Game Designer Tasks
- Conceptualize and implement game mechanics, animation, characters, narrative, assets, AI behaviors, text, and sound.
- Assist in design of user interface screens, support screens, and game levels.
- Drive game design through conceptualization, presentation, implementation, tuning, and release.