Become aGame Developer

Being a Game Developer means more than just a job – it’s about being a part of something larger than yourself. Imagine creating games that bring joy, challenge, and even education to people all around the world. Plus, in this role, your work is your play. What could be cooler than making games for a living? As technology advances, so do the possibilities in game development, ensuring this career is as exciting in the future as it is today.

• Create immersive worlds and thrilling adventures.
• Combine creativity with emerging technology.
• Shape the future of interactive entertainment.
• Collaborate with diverse, passionate teams.

A Game Developer takes the seed of a game idea and turns it into a full-fledged playable reality. From writing code and designing systems to creating art and testing interfaces, your role is pivotal in every step of the development process. You might specialise in a particular area like gameplay, graphics, or sound, or you might be a jack-of-all-trades, dabbling in every part of the game’s creation.

As a Game Developer, you master the thrilling world of gaming, blending imagination with technology to create interactive experiences. Whether you’re coding, animating, or designing, every day brings new challenges and the chance to shape how we play and interact with games. You could work on everything from heart racing action games to thought provoking stealth games, and more! It’s not just about playing games; it’s about making them, testing them, and even watching others enjoy them. Your creativity fuels this booming industry, and your technical skills bring your visions to life.

A Day in the Life of a Game Developer

Design Game Levels and Mechanics
Plan and develop the levels, characters, and core mechanics that define the game’s experience and keep players engaged.

Write and Optimise Code
Write efficient code to bring game features to life, ensuring smooth performance across various platforms.

Collaborate with Designers and Artists
Work closely with graphic designers, sound engineers, and writers to ensure the game’s vision is brought to life through visuals, audio, and storytelling.

Test Games for Bugs and Glitches
Playtest games extensively to identify bugs, glitches, or areas for improvement, and debug them to ensure a seamless player experience.

Stay Updated on Gaming Trends
Research the latest trends in gaming, from virtual reality to artificial intelligence, to ensure your game stays relevant and competitive.

Engage with the Gaming Community
Interact with gamers and online communities to gather feedback, promote your game, and build a loyal player base

While gaming is a universe of its own, Game Developers have opportunities across various industries where entertainment, education, and technology merge.

• Video Game Studios
• Educational Software Companies
• Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality Development
• Film and Animation Studios
• Advertising and Marketing Agencies
• Freelance and Independent Game Development

As a Game Developer, you’ll need a mix of technical and creative skills that let you bring game concepts to life.

• Coding
• Problem Solving
• Artistic Design
• Storytelling
• Teamwork
• Attention to Detail

Studying certain STEM subjects can give you a head start in the gaming industry by building a solid foundation of relevant skills.

Computer Science

Understand the software and coding aspects.

Mathematics

Essential for game mechanics and physics.

Graphic Design

Key to creating visually appealing elements.

English

Helps with storytelling and dialogue.

Physics

Useful for creating realistic game scenarios.

Business Studies

Offers insights into the gaming market and industry.

Create a New Character with Unique Powers
Design an innovative character with special abilities, setting the stage for exciting gameplay and adventures.

Develop a New Game Mode
Invent a fresh game mode that challenges players in new ways, like a co-op mission or a competitive battle royale.

Experiment with Virtual Reality
Develop immersive experiences for virtual reality platforms, letting players step inside the game world like never before.

Prototype a Game Idea in One Day
Quickly build and test a prototype of a new game idea to see if it has the potential to be the next big hit.

Host an Online Live Playtest
Run a live playtest session with gamers worldwide, gathering real-time feedback to make your game even better.

Collaborate with Famous Streamers
Work with popular game streamers to promote your game, increase visibility, and build excitement within the community.

Australia has produced some stellar Game Developers known globally. Take Lisy Kane, for instance, who co-founded Girl Geek Academy and was listed in Forbes 30 Under 30 in the games category. Then there’s Seon Rozenblum, the director and game designer at 3 Sprockets, known for his innovative approach. Check out these legendary women of gaming:

Leena van Deventer

 A game developer, writer, and educator, Leena co-authored “Game Changers: From Minecraft to Misogyny, the Fight for the Future of Video Games” and is a vocal advocate for diversity in gaming.

Nicole Stark

Co-founder of Disparity Games, Nicole has worked on acclaimed titles like “Ninja Pizza Girl,” a game that combines fun gameplay with social commentary on bullying and body positivity.

Rae Johnston

Although primarily known as a journalist and presenter, Rae has also made her mark in game development, especially in advocating for Indigenous representation in video games.

Kassie Simpson

A leading figure in Australia’s indie game scene, Kassie is known for her work on various creative projects and her contributions to mentoring the next generation of game developers.

To succeed as a Game Developer, certain personality traits can be as important as professional skills.

• Creative
• Patient
• Collaborative
• Adaptable
• Persistent
• Passionate

If you have University set in your sights, these might be some options for you to explore:

Bachelor of Creative Media (Game Design)

Begin with a degree in Game Design to learn the fundamentals of designing and developing video games. Murdoch University in Western Australia offers a Bachelor of Creative Media with a major in Game Art and Design, which covers game development, level design, and interactive storytelling. This programme provides hands-on experience with industry tools and software and builds a solid foundation in game mechanics, design principles, and user experience.

Bachelor of Computer Science (Games Technology)

If you’re more inclined toward the technical aspects, consider a degree in Computer Science with a focus on Games Technology. The University of Western Australia (UWA) offers a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, where you can learn about programming, artificial intelligence, and graphics rendering, essential skills for developing advanced gaming engines and software.

Master’s in Digital Game Development or Interactive Media

For those seeking advanced training, a master’s degree in Digital Game Development or Interactive Media can provide deeper expertise in game production, animation, and narrative design. Curtin University offers a Master of Digital and Social Media that includes specialisation in digital content creation, interactive media, and game design.

Graduate Certificate in Game Design or Programming

Consider a Graduate Certificate in Game Design or Programming from institutions like Edith Cowan University (ECU). These short courses focus on developing specific skills, such as level design, character animation, or AI programming, and offer an accelerated route into the industry.

Imagine combining your love for storytelling with technology! Many Game Developers today blend skills from different fields to enhance their career prospects. For instance, studying computer science alongside digital arts or animation can give you an edge in game design, making you a versatile member of any development team. Interdisciplinary studies allow you to understand the technical coding aspects and the creative design process, making your game ideas more innovative and executable.

Moreover, some universities offer combined degrees, such as Computer Science and Graphic Design, which prepare you to take on roles like game programmer or UI/UX designer within the gaming industry. These programmes are designed to broaden your skill set, opening doors to various aspects of game development from the get-go.

Additionally, engaging in courses that include virtual reality and artificial intelligence can propel you into the future of game development. As gaming technology evolves, having expertise in these cutting-edge areas can significantly enhance the gameplay experience, putting you at the forefront of game innovation.

Studying game development, you’ll dive into coding languages essential for building games, like C++ and Java. You’ll learn about game engine software such as Unity and Unreal Engine, which are tools that help bring your creative visions to life. Courses also cover game art and animation, teaching you how to design characters and environments that captivate players. Plus, you’ll explore the storytelling aspect of game design, learning how to weave narratives that engage and excite users.

Gaining work experience may really help you on your way. Many courses include placement years or work integrated learning, where you can join a game studio and contribute to real projects. This experience is invaluable, helping you understand the industry’s dynamics and build a network of professional contacts.

Internships with Game Studios or Tech Companies

Gain practical experience by interning with game studios or tech companies, such as Wargaming Sydney or SMG Studio. These internships provide in person opportunities to work on game development projects, learn from experienced developers, and build your portfolio.

Collaborate on Game Jams and Community Projects

Participate in game jams, like the Global Game Jam or local events hosted by organisations like Game Dev Perth. These are excellent opportunities to collaborate with other developers, create new games in a short time, and build a network within the gaming community.

University is not always a viable path for everyone, and that’s ok too. Whatever your reasons, taking any step towards your dream career is progress! So what do some of the alternative pathways look like:

Certifications in Game Development Software (e.g., Unity, Unreal Engine)

Master industry used tools by completing courses in software like Unity or Unreal Engine through online platforms or at TAFE WA. These certifications help you gain proficiency in game development environments and 3D graphics, which are vital for modern game design.

Workshops on Virtual Reality, Augmented Reality, or Game Narratives

Attend specialised workshops or short courses on new gaming technologies or narrative design, provided by organisations like Screenwest or Australian Film Television and Radio School (AFTRS). These sessions allow you to experiment with emerging gaming trends and tools.

Join Game Development Communities and Industry Groups

Engage with professional groups like IGDA Australia (International Game Developers Association) or local meetups in Perth to stay informed about job opportunities, new technologies, and industry trends.

Attend Game Development Conferences and Festivals

Participate in events such as PAX Australia or the Melbourne International Games Week (MIGW) to learn from industry leaders, showcase your projects, and network with other passionate game developers.

Try out Microlearning Platforms

Websites like Coursera, Udemy, and Codecademy offer specific courses on game development. These platforms allow you to learn at your own pace and build a portfolio of projects.

Apprenticeships and Internships

Many gaming companies offer apprenticeship programs where you learn directly from experienced developers. This on-the-job training can be an excellent way to enter the industry without a formal degree.

Becoming a Game Developer is an exciting prospect that allows you to blend creativity with technology in creating immersive experiences – so where in the world could this career take you?

Western Australia

In Western Australia, the gaming industry is burgeoning, with opportunities in local startups and established studios in Perth focused on both educational and entertainment gaming.

Australia

Across Australia, the game development scene is vibrant, with hubs in Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. Companies range from indie studios to major firms like Ubisoft and EA, offering roles in game design, programming, and even marketing.

Rest of the World

Globally, the U.S., Japan, and the UK are leaders in game development. Companies like Nintendo, Sony, and Microsoft offer various roles from game testing to advanced game design. The industry is booming, with VR and AR transforming gaming experiences, providing endless opportunities for budding Game Developers.