You’re in luck if you want to work as a playtester! To help create games the best they can be, the gaming industry is continuously expanding and changing, therefore new viewpoints are always needed. However, what really is a playtester, and how does one go about becoming one?
Before they are made available to the general public, video games are tested by playtesters. This entails playing the game through several times and giving the development team input on any problems or potential improvements. In order to make sure the game is enjoyable, hard, and bug-free, playtesters are essential to the development process.
You don’t have need a degree in game design to work as a playtester. However, it can be advantageous to hold a degree in a similar subject like computer science, graphic design, or game development. Having a solid grasp of game mechanics and the ability to offer helpful criticism are also critical.
Participating in beta tests is one method to start out as a playtester. Beta versions of many games are made available to the public for testing and review. This is a fantastic chance to gain practical experience and network with others in the field.
Contacting game developers directly is an additional means of becoming a playtester. A lot of businesses have playtesting initiatives and are constantly looking for fresh testers. Additionally, you can look for employment openings on websites like Indeed, Glassdoor, or LinkedIn.
The pay of animators can vary based on their level of experience, where they live, and the business they work for. The median annual salary for multimedia artists and animators in 2020 was $77,700, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Last but not least, a game designer’s weekly work hours can change. The majority of game designers are full-time employees who occasionally put in extra hours when a game’s release is looming. However, a lot of gaming companies place a strong emphasis on work-life balance and provide opportunities for remote work or flexible hours.
In conclusion, working as a playtester is a fantastic way to get started in the gaming industry and get experience. Although a degree in game design is not necessary, it is essential to have a solid grasp of game mechanics and offer helpful criticism. Both participating in beta tests and getting in touch with game developers directly are excellent places to start. And keep in mind that, despite the fact that the gaming industry can be demanding, there are options for flexibility and work-life balance.