Hey, I’m trying to figure out the best way to break into the gaming industry as a programmer. Would the best way to to make games or programs, or would focusing on college be more beneficial? I understand that you can be argued both ways, but I’m trying to start a plan. I’m not talking about any specific company, Epic Games would be the best, but in general what would be a good way to make a company notice you?
For a programmer getting some certifications can help, and then after that you just need to develop some projects to showcase your skill.
It depends on what you want to do in the game’s industry. Do you want to make games or tools for games?
If the former, then you should just create games using Unreal or any engine you like. If it’s the latter, then you need to learn which specific area you want to work in, be it graphics, sound, physics, etc.
I think college is still the best even if it’s for the experience alone.
Programmers and Artists have an easier time breaking in to the industry because it’s easy to test the applicants knowledge (programming interview/test, art portfolio, etc).
For Programmers:
- Get a BS in CompSci. It’s not required but it helps get you to the initial interview as it implies a level of proficiency.
- You will be tested on your C++ knowledge. Know your data structures, good programming habits (const correctness, defensive coding, etc), and just in general “how things works” from a high level view (memory access, caching, etc).
- Don’t be a jerk. Seriously. Be humble, talk through your thought process. I will always hire a humble, slightly-weaker programmer than a toxic, know-it-all Rock Star. Talent can be taught, but behavior (especially in a team environment) is much more difficult to correct.
The ability to play well with others is way too often overlooked. All it takes is one person on the team with a terrible attitude to bring down a project.