Are you looking for a fun way to work-from-home? Or maybe earn from someone else’s enjoyment? If you have a knack in programming and gaming, becoming a game developer might be for you!
What Do Game Developers Do?
Basically, game developers program and create either PC, console, or mobile games. It involves both creative arts, math, and coding to create a profitable and addictive game.
Game developers can also be hired to integrate different custom APIs for smooth-flowing gaming. They can also maintain gaming projects to ensure code quality.
Sounds fun? Definitely, worth trying! Here are 9 essential skills to become an in-demand game developer.
Storytelling
Game developers bring a new world to its users. Some games can engulf the users for hours in a world of fantasy with quests to be stronger. Some are in a setting where they need to defend their country’s honour. Most are just plain cute with candy crushing madness.
One thing in common; they all have storylines in place. As an in-demand game developer, you should also have a knack for storytelling.
What kind of plot will you include? What milestones can you incorporate to make your users crave for more? Find the right story baseline to make your game a success.
Creativity and Imagination
With storytelling comes creativity. How will you introduce your story and the characters? Will it be 2D or 3D? How about the design of your characters? What about the gameplay? How do you make it addictive?
Work with your imagination. Creativity is crucial not only in the visuals and music. It’s also needed in the storyline, gameplay, and social aspects (if the game is multiplayer).
Proficiency in Programming Languages
Every game developer should know how to code the games into (virtual) reality. The most commonly used programming languages are C#, C++, and Java. Whether it’s a PC, a console, or a mobile game, you should have the proper coding language perfect for your endeavours.
It’s good also to have familiarity with the following apps.
- Maya
- Zbrush
- Level Design
- Adobe Photoshop
- EPIC Unreal Engine
Having mastery or at least working knowledge in these graphics and 3D design apps can work well when you integrate with your programming prowess.
Analytical Skills
Game developers face coding challenges to bring life into their games. Literally, a lot of back-end processes need to work to produce one game element. Not to mention, it should be seamless in the eyes of the gamers.
In this field, you should have analytical skills with coding your games. You use this to integrate database, hardware, and gameplay smoothly.
Problem-solving Skills
The only constant thing in this world is problems. And your game development career is not an exception. You will have code not working. You will have glitches. You might even have cyber attacks on your server if you’re maintaining an online multiplayer RPG.
The question is, what will you do about it? As a sought-after game developer, you should have problem-solving skills to fix complications that may come. You should think outside the box and find solutions that can help your cause.
Time Management
Game development has many facets to consider. There is design, coding, storyline, music, and so on. And every step is challenging at its own right. Which one do you do first?
With this, you should have the time management skills to prioritize the crucial tasks first. You should know how to set timelines so that you can beat the deadline with no problem.
Communication
Most likely, you will not be alone in a project. You will be working with other people to create the best game for your clients. You need to communicate well with them. You have to convey your ideas and needs properly to avoid misunderstandings. It can also manage each other’s expectations for the project.
Collaboration
On top communication, you should also know how to collaborate with your team. We all have strengths and weaknesses. And to become the best team, you should capitalize on what you’re good at, and let your teammates take care of what you’re not.
Your ability to work as part of a team is crucial to becoming a successful game developer.
Up-to-date with the Gaming Trends
What people want changes over time; what might be a literal game-changer today might be just a fad a few months from now. You should be up-to-date with the latest in the gaming industry.
What are the latest games people raving about? Can it be improved? What concepts resonate with your target audience? Can you make a game out of it?
You should be on the lookout. Who knows, it might be the breakthrough idea you are looking for.
Conclusion
Are you ready to become a game developer? Master the skills above and watch your career grow in this field. If you’re looking for opportunities in this field, check out this link to find out more. Good luck! ¥
