The following article is a community contribution from Ed Carter. Ed is a retired financial planner who runs the site: AbleFutures, where he is working on providing financial literacy for the disabled. He reached out to contribute an article and I am more than happy to help him spread the word! If you would like to contribute an article you can contact me here.
Here is a short bio on Ed:
Over the years, I’ve worked with clients of all ages, backgrounds and incomes. About 10 years into my career, I saw a need for financial planners who specialize in helping individuals and families living with disabilities. Regardless of their nature or how long they’ve affected someone, physical and mental limitations often cause stress and confusion when it comes to financial planning. Many people are unaware of just how many options they have when it comes to financial assistance and planning, so it’s an honor to offer my experience and change people’s lives for the better. Now that I’m retired, I’m committed to continuing my services, even though I work on a broader scale than when I was working 9 to 5. I now spend my free time writing financial literacy articles for people to share on their blogs, collecting resource links for people to share on their websites, and collaborating with like-minded folks who want to make a difference. If you are interested in working with me, please contact me via my contact form. All of my services are free.
Notice: The following article is contributed by Ed Carter. He is the sole author of this post. Please contact him here for any inquiries/comments about this article.
Have you ever dreamed of making a living creating the games you love? Video games continue to become more popular and lucrative, and the industry is always looking for talented and passionate individuals like yourself. Plus, it’s easier to get started than you might think! In this article we explore the skills and tools necessary to succeed as a game developer, learning opportunities worth seeking, and more.
Specific Skills Necessary for Success
There’s no one-size-fits-all list of skills needed to flourish in game development, but some traits and abilities are highly valued in the industry. First and foremost, developers must have a keen eye for detail and creativity.
It’s also essential to have excellent communication skills because game development centers on collaboration. Being well-versed in programming languages like C++ and Java can help you thrive, as can experience with game engines like Unity, Unreal, or CryEngine.
Tools to Invest In
One beautiful thing about video game development is that you don’t need access to high-end computers or software to start your journey. Some of the most popular tools are free and open-source and give users various pre-built game assets, a visual scripting system, and cross-platform support.
Harnessing a 3D modeling tool can help you create realistic, immersive game environments quickly and efficiently. Not only does this help you craft detailed and lifelike worlds with ease, but it also saves time and money since you don’t have to outsource or hire extra personnel for your development projects. And you can focus more on story and gameplay!
3D modeling tools provide greater control over the artistic elements of a game, equipping you to make precise adjustments with limited coding or programming knowledge. And using such a tool gives you an added level of realism and emotion compared to traditional 2D assets, significantly enhancing the overall gaming experience.
The Best Learning Opportunities
Video game development is a highly competitive field, and it’s crucial to stay up to date with the latest trends and technologies. Fortunately, aspiring game developers have plenty of educational resources at their disposal. Some of the most well-known online learning platforms include Coursera and Udemy, which provide courses on everything from game design to coding.
You might also explore game development boot camps and game design schools that offer a more traditional in-person educational experience. While you’re at it, be sure to follow industry news and attend local game development meetups or conferences.
An online IT degree can prepare you for a career in video games by providing the technical expertise required to design and develop complex gaming software, as well as the problem-solving and critical thinking skills necessary to innovate within the constantly evolving gaming industry. This is a good option to consider if you want flexible learning opportunities.
Putting Together an Impressive Resume
When you’ve spent countless hours developing your skills and creating games, you need to put your experience into action and create a portfolio that showcases your abilities. Your portfolio should include examples of your work, including finished games and demo projects.
It can also include experience in related fields like animation, programming, or graphic design. And remember to provide a cover letter detailing your passion for game development and why you’re the ideal candidate for the job.
Practical Tips for Landing a Job
Learning a job in the competitive video game development world can be intimidating, especially for first-timers. But there are some practical ways to stand out. For example, start by building a network of contacts within the industry, attending events, and getting your name out there as much as possible.
Offering your services as a freelance developer can also help you gain experience and make connections. Remember to tailor each resume and cover letter specifically to the company and position you’re applying for, and go into every interview well-prepared.
Conclusion
A career in game development can be a thrilling and fulfilling path to take when you love video games. You can turn your passion into a profession with the right skills, tools, and learning opportunities.
Remember to craft an outstanding portfolio and network within the industry to boost your chances of landing a job. Learn new skills through online learning opportunities. And take time to research 3D modeling tools and other technologies that can help you make your dream a reality!
Photo by Erik Mclean from Pexels