Additional Information
Many video game testers work part time in the industry while still in college.
Others are college graduates with degrees in computer science or other fields
who start out as testers in order to break into the industry.
Naila Hadjas was a college student when she landed her first job as a video
game tester. She says the company wasn't concerned about her education or
work experience.
"They were more looking for people who were passionate about video games,
because at the time that was my first job, so experience-wise, I didn't have
any," says Hadjas. "They were just really looking for people who were passionate
and motivated, who just loved video games."
Although a college diploma isn't normally required for testers, having
one increases your chances of being able to build a long-term career in the
industry. Those with training in marketing, business, programming or design
can move into more senior roles later on.
"You don't need a college degree to get a job doing [testing at most places],"
says Matthew Burns. He's a senior producer at the University of Washington's
Center for Game Science and a former tester. "But it doesn't hurt to have
one, especially if you're interested in eventually doing more than testing."
You can increase your chances of being hired by getting experience as a
volunteer tester. Many game companies will advertise online for volunteer
testers. Volunteers sometimes receive a free copy of a game or some other
reward from the company in exchange for the testing.
It's important to live near the game company that you hope to work for.
"A problem that some young people run into is that they live in a city
without any game development studios in it," says Burns. "This is unfortunate,
and the only real solution is to move.
"There are usually enough local candidates for game testing jobs that relocating
someone or having them work remotely probably isn't worth it for a company,"
Burns adds. "So, if you are in pursuit of a paid, full-time testing job, it's
important to do a little independent research on the game companies in your
local area. If there aren't any, consider moving to one of the country's 'tech
hub' cities [such as] San Francisco, Boston, Seattle, Austin, etc., where
there's the chance for multiple opportunities."
Some of the larger computer game companies offer internship programs for
students who wish to pursue a career in the video game industry.
"Being a tester can definitely lead to a long-term career in the game industry,
and it has for many people," says Burns. "But, yes, it can also be very competitive.
A test team may be comprised of dozens, even hundreds, of people working on
an hourly contract basis, with only a few salaried employees acting as managers.
So, it's important to go into game testing with a clear head about what the
prospects are, and to avoid getting too demoralized if you are passed over
for a permanent position."