What career path should I take to work in video game development?
If you're passionate about video games, you've probably dreamed of creating them. You may have even used tools like RPG Maker to make your first projects in this industry, but now that the time is approaching to choose a professional future, do you know what you should study for a career in video game development?
It doesn't matter if you're a PC gamer, a Nintendo fan or if you just love PlayStation exclusives: the possibility of creating video games is much closer than you think, and we're going to give you a little guide on how to get there!
What is video game development?
Video game development is the creative and technical process by which video games are conceived, designed and produced, from the initial idea to the creation of characters, environments, game mechanics and programming.
This is why it includes disciplines such as graphic design, programming, storytelling and music, all working together to create interactive experiences that entertain and challenge players in equal measure. It is a dynamic field that combines art and technology, making it necessary to deploy both creativity and technical skills - only then can your ideas be realised in immersive virtual worlds!
University degrees to work in video game development
If you are passionate about virtual worlds and do not know where to start to study video game development, you should know that there are several university degrees that can open the doors to this exciting industry.
- Bachelor's Degree in Design and Development of Video Games and Virtual Environments: This programme prepares you in areas such as programming, level design and interactive narrative, training you for roles such as video game designer or programmer in development studios.
- Computer Engineering: This degree provides a solid foundation in programming and software development, essential skills for the creation of game engines and tools used in the video game industry.
- Degree in Multimedia and Graphic Design: This degree offers training in artistic techniques applied to the digital environment, allowing you to work in the visual design and animation of characters and environments in video games.
Training courses and technical training in video game development
In addition to university degrees, there are higher education courses that prepare you to enter the world of video game development and make the leap to a successful career in the world of digital entertainment.
- Higher Degree in 3D Animations, Games and Interactive Environments: Learn to create 3D animations and graphics and to integrate them into video games of your own creation.
- Higher Degree in Multiplatform Application Development: Although not 100% specialised in the world of video games, the vast majority of its teachings can be applied to this sector, and you will also learn to design, create and maintain systems, programmes, mobile applications and interfaces!
- Specialisation Course in Video Game Development and Virtual Reality: Offers specific knowledge in video game programming and design, as well as in emerging technologies such as Virtual Reality, preparing you for roles such as video game programmer or VR application developer.
Skills needed to work in the games industry
Beyond your video game development career, working in this industry requires a combination of skills that facilitate collaboration and innovation, two aspects that are common to the best professionals.
- Proficiency in programming languages such as C++ and experience with game engines such as Unity or Unreal Engine.
- Ability to create engaging game environments and a smooth user experience (UX).
- Ability to develop innovative ideas and original solutions in game design and development.
- Ability to collaborate with other professionals on multidisciplinary projects - a video game requires the involvement of a large number of people!
- Be able to identify and solve technical and design problems during game development.
Career opportunities in video game development
This booming industry offers a wide range of job opportunities, including the following.
- Video game programmer, in charge of writing the code that brings the game to life and implementing mechanics and functionalities.
- Video game designer, who conceptualises and designs the gameplay, levels and narrative of the game.
- Game AI developer, who specialises in creating intelligent behaviours for characters and in-game systems.
- 3D/2D Artist, who creates all the visual elements of the game, from characters to environments and objects.
What is certain is that the unstoppable evolution of the industry guarantees a continuous demand for professionals, so choose your career in video game development at UDT and jump on the bandwagon, you'll be there in plenty of time to make your mark and succeed!
