Games Designer

Games designers, or developers, are involved in the creation and production of computer games, handheld games, console games, arcade games, ‘Flash’ games for internet use and games for mobile phones.

The designer's role is only one of manyinvolved in games production and it is a commonly misunderstood role. 

Games designers are principally concerned with the conception or creation of a game and how it would work. They should be able to communicate ideas to artists and developers and act as a go-between. with an understanding of all the technical, artistic and budgetry constraints.

Tasks vary, depending on individual games development specialisation, but may include; developing designs and/or initial concept designs for games, which may include deciding how the game plays.

Other duties may be: generating game scripts and storyboards; creating the visual aspects of the game at the concept stage; disseminating knowledge to colleagues, clients and gamers; and working closely with team members to meet the needs of a project.

Range of typical starting salaries is from £10,000 to £25,000, with the lower salary range relating to entry-level roles such as quality assurance games tester, and the higher range relating to artists/animators, designers and programmers.

Range of typical salaries at senior level/with experience (e.g. after 10-15 years in the role): £35,000 - £45,000+, the higher range relating to lead games developers and producers and team managers.

Salary is dependent on the company, location and nature of the employer’s business. Some companies offer their employees bonuses or a profit-sharing plan.

Although this role is open to graduates in all subject areas, a relevant degree, HND or foundation degree in one of the following subjects may increase your chances: computer games development; computer games design; multimedia design; interactive media; software engineering; mathematics; physics; animation; graphic design; computer science.

Entry without a degree, HND or foundation degree is sometimes possible. One entry route into games developing is as a quality assurance tester. You do not need to have an HND or degree to enter at this level, but some programming experience is desirable, as well as extensive experience of game playing and an understanding of different styles and platforms.

A growing number of universities are offering recognised Masters degrees in games programming. A relevant postgraduate qualification, while not essential for entry to the sector, may be highly attractive to employers, especially if your first degree or HND does not involve any element of programming.

With the increasing popularity of games and advances in technology, the industry offers a wide range of opportunities but competition is intense at all levels and games developers need to demonstrate a high level of commitment and achievement.

In order to improve your chance of entry it is essential that you create a portfolio with examples of work you have created, whether it is code, design, artwork or audio. This helps to show prospective employers that you are keen and enthusiastic to get a job, and also gives a good idea of your talent and creativity.

Relevant work experience and knowledge of specific software tools is also advantageous, and a good understanding of how the industry works will help you to get on within it. As well as applying for advertised jobs, it is also recommended that you approach companies speculatively, as jobs in this field are not always advertised. You will need to tailor your application, so always research what companies have done in the past.