Video games are more popular than ever, with the video game industry now rivaling Hollywood in terms of revenue generated. This popularity has led to huge demand for video game testers, specialists who play game prototypes and new titles to identify bugs and other issues before release. For gaming enthusiasts, becoming a professional video game tester can be a dream job.
What does a video game tester do?
A video game tester plays new and prototype games to identify problems and flaws. This includes:
- Looking for software bugs that cause crashes, glitches, or other errors.
- Checking for issues with game design, mechanics, and progression.
- Identifying problems with graphics, audio, and visual effects.
- Checking for integration issues when games have online/multiplayer components.
- Providing reports on all problems found and how they can be resolved.
- Regression testing patched builds to ensure fixes work.
- Writing automated tests to check for specific conditions.
- Giving feedback on gameplay and user experience.
The job involves methodically playing different game builds, documenting any issues, reproducing bugs, analyzing root causes, and confirming fixes. This provides developers the feedback needed to polish games before release.
What skills does a video game tester need?
The key skills needed to succeed as a video game tester include:
- Gaming experience – A passion for playing video games from different genres and on varied platforms.
- Technical aptitude – Ability to quickly identify and understand software issues and bugs.
- Attention to detail – Meticulously testing game elements and noting any flaws.
- Written communication – Concise bug reporting and suggested solutions.
- Collaboration – Working closely with developers to reproduce and resolve issues.
- Creativity – Approaching game testing in innovative ways to uncover uncommon bugs.
- Perseverance – Persistently regression testing and analyzing root causes.
Previous experience in a software testing or QA role is also helpful but not required for entry-level game testing positions. Some employers provide on-the-job training to develop the specialized skills needed for game testing.
What qualifications do you need?
There are no specific educational requirements, but many video game testers have:
- A high school diploma or equivalent.
- An associate or bachelor’s degree in a field like computer science, programming, engineering, or design.
- Previous QA, testing, IT, or support experience.
- Certifications in software testing or quality assurance.
Some employers may prefer candidates with relevant degrees or certifications. However, these are not strictly necessary for many entry-level game tester roles.
What is the work environment like?
Video game testers typically work in office environments at video game studios. The work involves:
- A standard 40 hours per week schedule, but overtime may be required to meet deadlines.
- Testing individually or collaboratively in small groups.
- Sitting at a computer desk playing games for extended periods.
- Comfortable indoor offices, except for occasional convention travel.
- Professional, relaxed atmospheres supportive of the creative process.
It is an ideal role for people who love playing video games and want to turn that passion into a career.
What is the career progression and future outlook?
Entry-level video game testers may have opportunities such as:
- Becoming a senior tester leading a QA team.
- Moving into specialized roles like compatibility testing or localization.
- Transitioning into game design, production, or project management roles.
- Becoming a QA manager, QA lead, or head of testing.
Experienced testers can also move into careers as:
- Video game producers – Managing development budgets, resources, schedules.
- Game designers – Creating gameplay systems and content.
- Developers – Coding and programming game logic.
The US Bureau of Labor Statistics projects strong 10% growth for gaming jobs over the next decade, much faster than the average for other occupations.
Average salaries for video game tester roles
Job Title | Average Salary |
---|---|
Entry Level Game Tester | $25,000 – $35,000 |
QA Game Tester | $35,000 – $45,000 |
Senior Game Tester | $45,000 – $70,000 |
Lead Game Tester | $65,000 – $85,000 |
QA Manager | $75,000 – $115,000 |
These salaries can vary based on factors like location, company, and level of experience.
How can you start your career as a video game tester?
To become a professional video game tester, recommended steps include:
- Learn about game testing – Research QA skills, tools, and processes used by game testers.
- Get any necessary qualifications – A relevant degree or certifications can improve prospects.
- Build a QA portfolio – Document testing projects from games, mods, or apps to showcase skills.
- Apply to video game studios – Target studios developing games you are passionate about.
- Consider apprenticeships or internships – Paid internships provide invaluable experience.
- Work your way up – Gain expertise as an entry-level tester before pursuing senior roles.
- Keep your skills sharp – Continue honing technical and communication abilities.
Staying up-to-date on the latest games and demonstrating a commitment to quality are also key for long-term success as a game tester.
Conclusion
Becoming a video game tester can be an exciting career path for those passionate about gaming. It requires a mix of technical ability, problem-solving skills, and unwavering attention to detail. While challenging, talented QA testers can thrive in this competitive yet rewarding industry. With strong work ethic and expertise, aspiring game testers can turn their hobby into a lifelong career they love.