Computer Games Developer

Introduction

As a Computer Games Developer, you will produce games for PCs, games consoles, the internet and mobile phones. Usually you would be working within a team of developers, working on one particular aspect of the game. Also known as

Games Programmer Programmer, Computer Games Developer, Computer Games Work Activities

As a Computer Games Developer, you will program games for PCs, games consoles, the internet and mobile phones.

You'll most likely be working as a member of a team, which is normally made up of:

Designers Testers Graphic Artists Programmers

Your team will be led by a Product Manager.

You will provide the programming expertise to turn the storyboards and ideas of the Designers, Writers and other production team members, into the finished game.

You will probably be responsible for programming just one aspect of the game - maybe a particular movement, or character. You will combine your work with that of other Developers, to create the finished game.

Once the coding is complete, you might have to test the application to make sure that it works correctly and there are no faults. This can prove a time-consuming process, though most programming applications include special software tools to help in the process.

In larger companies, the testing will often be done by specialist testers.

Being able to read, write and speak Welsh may be an advantage when you’re looking for work in Wales. Personal Qualities and Skills

To become a Computer Games Developer, you'll need:

a good knowledge of, and enthusiasm for, computer games advanced programming skills, preferably in C++, C#, Java and ActionScript mathematical ability in order to program the movement of three-dimensional objects a logical, methodical approach to your work good problem solving skills Pay and Opportunities

Pay

The pay rates given below are approximate.

Your salary might include performance-related pay, profit share or company bonuses.

Hours of work

You would usually usually work 35-37 hours, Monday to Friday. However, late finishes and some weekend work are often required, especially as deadlines approach.

Where could I work?

Lots of computer games companies are based in London. However, significant computer games industry 'hubs' are growing in the following places:

Brighton Cambridge Cardiff Dundee Edinburgh Guildford Aldershot Liverpool Manchester Oxford Sheffield and Rotherham Warwick Stratford-upon-Avon

Take a look at this map to see where computer games companies are operating across the world

devmap.gamesmith.com/

This career could include working for an agency.

Self-employment

Opportunities occur for experienced Computer Games Developers to become self-employed.

Where are vacancies advertised?

Vacancies are advertised in specialist magazines/websites such as Edge and Develop, on IT job boards and employers' websites, in national newspapers, on Find a Job and at Jobcentre Plus. Entry Routes and Training

Entry routes

A degree isn't essential for this job. However, degrees in relevant subjects are available at many universities. In order to get onto a degree course you will usually need at least two A levels.

An A level in an IT based subject would be a great help.

So now is a great time to start planning your route through to university. IT based subjects at GCSE and A level would help you to stand out from the crowd.

A great way to get into this career is through an internship. Take a look at our information article 'Internships', for

Training

If you would like some training, Access Creative College offer courses that could help you enter this career. Check the website for dates and availability.

Other courses could be available in your area.

Work Experience

If you really want to become a Computer Games Developer, then you should think about getting relevant development experience in another industry first. This will give you a great advantage, when gaming opportunities do appear. And don't forget to play games! Become an expert in the latest developments within the gaming world.

Progression

Experienced Computer Games Developers could become Team Leaders and then Programming or Project Managers. Qualifications

For entry to a degree course in a relevant subject, the usual requirement is:

2/3 A levels GCSEs at grade C/4 or above in 2/3 other subjects English and maths at GCSE

You might need maths and/or another numerate science subject (for example, physics) at A level for some courses.

Alternatives to A levels relevant vocational qualifications and the International Baccalaureate Diploma.

A T level qualification in digital, production, design and development will help you to develop specialist digital skills that could help for this career (not available in Wales).

It might also be possible to enter this work without formal qualifications, if you have relevant programming skills.

Some universities accept the Welsh Baccalaureate as equivalent to 1 A level. Adult Opportunities

Age limits

It is illegal for any organisation to set age limits for entry to employment, education or training, unless they can show there is a real need to have these limits.

Courses

If you are a graduate with a non-relevant degree, taking a one-year IT postgraduate conversion course will improve your chances.

If you don't have the qualifications needed to enter your chosen degree or HND course, a college or university Access course, for example, Access to IT/Computing, could be the way in. These courses are designed for people who have not followed the usual routes into higher education. No formal qualifications are usually needed, but you should check this with individual colleges.

Another option would be an HNC in computing on a part-time basis, either evening and/or daytime.

Alternatively, taking short intensive courses in specific computing languages with private accredited IT training providers can help you to develop the portfolio of technical skills needed by employers. Such courses can be taken on a flexible, evening, weekend or day part-time basis.

Distance learning opportunities include the Open University, which offers a number of degrees and diplomas in computing, including the degree in Computing and IT. Many educational institutions offer specific qualifications on a distance/online learning basis. Further Information

Contacts

Queen's University Belfast Northern Irish enquiries Website: www.qub.ac.uk

ScreenSkills Skills for the creative industries Email: [email protected] Website: www.creativeskillset.org

Creative Choices Publisher: Creative & Cultural Skills Email: [email protected] Website: www.creative-choices.co.uk

The Tech Partnership Skills for business and information technology Address: 1 Castle Lane, London SW1E 6DR Tel: 020 7963 8920 Email: [email protected] Website: www.e-skills.com

Open University (OU) Tel: 0845 3006090 Website: www.open.ac.uk

Inside Careers Specialists in graduate careers Address: Unit 6, The Quad, 49 Atalanta Street, Fulham, London SW6 6TU Tel: 020 7565 7900 Website: www.insidecareers.co.uk

BCS: The Chartered Institute for IT Address: First Floor, Block D, North Star House, North Star Avenue, Swindon SN2 1FA Tel: 0845 3004417 Email: [email protected] Website: www.bcs.org

Capita Learning and Development Tel: 0800 0223410 Email: [email protected] Website: www.capita-ld.co.uk

Big Ambition Email: [email protected] Website: www.bigambition.co.uk

Bring IT On Irish enquiries Website: www.bringitonni.info

Blitz Games Studios

Guardian Technology Address: Kings Place, 90 York Way, London N1 9GU Tel: 020 3353 2000 Email: [email protected] Website: www.guardian.co.uk/technology

Creative & Cultural Skills Skills for craft, cultural heritage, design, literature, music, performing arts and visual arts Email: [email protected] Website: ccskills.org.uk

Northern Ireland Screen Northern Ireland Enquiries Email: [email protected] Website: www.northernirelandscreen.co.uk

People Exchange Cymru (PEC) Public sector recruitment portal for Wales Email: [email protected] Website: www.peopleexchangecymru.org.uk/home

Train2Game Website: train2game.com

Access Creative College Email: [email protected] Website: www.accesscreative.ac.uk

Careers Occupational Information Unit – Bulletin – Software Technology - Northern Ireland Website: www.economy-ni.gov.uk/articles/careers-occupational-information-unit-bulletin-software-technology Related Careers

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