Those designers that work as independent contractors typically provide consulting and development services to other businesses. There are some designers that are self-employed and generally work in a freelance capacity, and then there are those that are employed by large gaming or media companies (we’ll get to that in a minute). When it comes to a day in the life of a video game designer, there is no one-size-fits-all scenario. Because production schedules can be very tight, video game designers are often noted for their ability to work long hours and make sure the studio’s deadline and budget are met. Character development, game mapping, gameplay, and user interface are just a few more examples of what a video game designer may be doing on a day-to-day basis while on the job.Īs a video game designer’s career evolves, many will take on more responsibility and have more input into the actual design process, moving from a bit player who simply executes directives to one of those that dreams up a game’s central idea and gameplay mechanics. Some may be involved in plot or narrative creation, while others are responsible for 3D modeling to make in-game features appear smooth and realistic. For top-shelf titles, large teams are assembled that can contain up to 300 designers and a budget that usually numbers in the millions or tens of millions of dollars.ĭuring a production schedule, each video game designer is assigned a specific job. While there are video games that are designed by a single person, the most common method for creating a modern game is more akin to a Hollywood movie production than writing a novel single-handedly. The job of a video game designer can be quite different depending on their specific role. Design major game mechanics, working with programmers to analyze the feasibility of ideas.Design user interfaces alongside programmers to create easily navigable controls.Revise designs as necessary based on leader, tester, or focus group feedback.Conduct thorough testing of game code to ensure designs are appropriately translated.Design scenes, characters, weapons, and movements for indie and major video games.Yes, you'll probably have to work at your company's booth, and perhaps sit on a panel or two, but what a way to spend your workday.The following job responsibilities are common for individuals in video game designer roles: You might get a company-paid trip to a video game or electronics convention, such as the gargantuan E3 electronics confab. You might also receive conventional benefits such as savings plans, health club discounts, and other company-specific offerings. Mostly, you'll see your company's products, but you might happen upon another manufacturer's beta version from time to time. First, you get to see new games before the makers release them to the general public. Of course, we can't forget the bennies and perks. Finally, a video game design or related degree will also increase your value to employers. Working on a crazy successful game's design team will provide you with beaucoup de brownie points. Your previous design experience, especially your proven ability to deliver quality results on time, will definitely stack the deck in your favor. Also, a large, established business is likely to pay you more than a brand-new start-up firm. You'll make more in a big city than in a small town or rural area, simply because your metro area living costs will be higher. ![]() As a creative director, which could mean you have a corner office rather than a crowded cubicle, you'll rake in around $75,000 to over a hundred grand per year.īefore you start jumping up and down with glee, remember your final salary figure will be affected by several factors. If you make it to the vaunted lead designer ranks, your annual salary jumps to $60,000 to $70,000 ( source). Now we'll get to some specifics.įirst, let's start with a junior designer position, where you'll probably earn between $40,000 and $50,000 annually. Let's start with some good news that applies to experienced designers and wet-behind-the-ears college graduates alike: The video game industry pays its designers very well. Average Salary: $62,310 Expected Lifetime Earnings: $2,601,000
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