The job of a video game designer is not just all about creating a game. He is supposed to create detailed design and documents necessary. A design document comprises of a series of descriptions in relation to an electronic game. This includes the plot, rules, mission, sound artwork, flowcharts and various other special features. The design document that a video game designer prepares is immensely important as it is used as a blueprint by the programmers, sound designers and the graphic artists.
The job of a video game designer cannot really be held as an entry level job. Candidates do need to have a prior knowledge in video game design and development processes, a little knowledge of programming, etc.
Academic
As far as educational qualifications are concerned, candidates need to have a Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science and Design or any other related areas of application design and development. A course in computer game designing may be necessary. Candidates also need to have a sound knowledge of computer applications and various platforms and ensure at the same time that they keep updating themselves with the latest innovations in the field.
Skill Sets
His or her skills in photo shop and other interesting software's like 3D max must be at his/her finger tips. The other forms of software like: Maya and Mac is quite essential to work efficiently. The industry also needs highly skilled people in the world of Linux and Apple. Hence having skills on these operating systems are a boon. Lastly, in some way he or she who wants to become a video game designer must be artistically talented and creatively edged as well.
Training
This is an important aspect in game designing. First and foremost we must realize that careers in game designing hardly have any on job training. The company you get recruited for expects you to know the significance of the job before you get in. Thus, make sure to have a lot of training that is suited for the job. These companies are more of the objective type. They tell you what the client requires and you are assigned your work. So training is minimal.
Prior Experience
Previous work experience is essential to excel in the field of video game designing. Working in the smaller companies can help the candidates get a good amount of experience which can come in handy at the later stage of the career. And as far as this field is concerned even the small companies are sure to be paying off well.
Career Prospects
The global gaming market is booming with numerous opportunities and possibilities as the gaming Titans have brought to the forefront the latest generation gaming consoles. As more and more people around the world are choosing on this latest mode of entertainment and buying more and more of Xbox, PlayStation 3 and Nintendo consoles the demand for game designers have reached an unprecedented standard. The Video Gaming industry which is a multi-billion dollar industry is oozing with the needs for creative minds who can convey creatively even within the tightest of deadlines. Making believable virtual worlds amidst highly simulated environments is an art and a very motivating job.
Salaries
Video game designers can start by working in small start-up companies or large multimedia corporations. The median annual salaries may be anywhere from $25,000 - $75,000 per year.
This is a professional field that is immensely interesting and at the same time highly lucrative. So for all those with a creative mindset and technical know, becoming a video game designer can be just the right option for you.
