what is a game developer?

A game developer is a job in IT and tech that uses programming logic and knowledge in software development to build a game from an idea to a playable reality. Your job involves developing the game's mechanics and formulating the artificial intelligence of the characters or creatures players encounter. You create the programming features' visual elements and test the game to ensure it is ready for the market.

After game development, your job is to test the game's functionality to ensure users have a seamless and engaging experience. Your work is to ascertain that the input from the player's console connects with the actions on the screen. This ensures gamers can navigate the game with ease using the control console. You also control the internal motions in the games. For instance, you ensure the characters that cannot be manipulated by human players move and perform other actions to facilitate the game.

As a game developer, you need to design various game formats that work on multiple platforms, including wireless applications, consoles, and mobile phones. You need to understand the stages of game development, like designing, programming, audio effects or animation, production, and editing. Since you work as part of a team, you can specialize in a specific area of game development.

Would working as a game developer suit your skills? Then, read on to find out what competencies and qualifications you need to thrive in a game developer role.

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average game developer salary

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for software developers is $127,260. For software quality assurance analysts and testers, it is $99,620. Computer programmers can expect to earn $97,800. These figures suggest that game developers in the United States earn around $100,000 to $130,000 per year on average. These salary amounts do not include benefits, bonuses, and other forms of compensation. However, the salary may vary depending on various factors such as location, years of experience, and the specific company.


Wondering what you can earn as a game developer? Find out immediately with the Randstad salary checker! You can quickly and easily see what the average salary of a game developer is.

Male cheering at his desk
Male cheering at his desk
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types of game developers

As a game developer, you can specialize in the following areas of development:

  • content designers: You focus on developing design details like formulating the plot and characters of a game. You also set up the game's universe and offer insights into new features that designers can incorporate.
  • game mechanics: Your focus is on the gameplay and elements that improve its functionality within the game design. For instance, you determine the combat moves and fighting tools to add to a fighting game.
  • level designers: Your job is to create an environment for the game, where the characters will live, and the ideal themes that draw players into the game. You determine if the game requires a dark environment or a bright theme with animations to make the game enjoyable.
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working as a game developer

Game development is a gratifying career. Discover the duties, responsibilities, and work environment of a game developer.

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game developer skills and education

Some of the ways to become a game developer include:

  • bachelor's degree: A bachelor's degree in computer science or graphic design can provide you with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed in game development. These programs cover programming languages, data structures, computer graphics, and artificial intelligence. A degree in animation may also be beneficial, especially if you're interested in the artistic aspects of game development. With that, you will better understand the principles of animation, character design, and visual storytelling, which are essential in creating immersive gaming experiences.
  • college courses: Taking specific courses is a great starting point if you're not ready to commit to a four-year degree. Courses in digital design and development can introduce you to game design basics, including user interface design, game mechanics, and interactive storytelling.
  • apprenticeship: Apprenticeship programs offer another pathway into the game development industry. You'll work alongside experienced professionals, learning the ins and outs of game development while contributing to real projects. This can be an excellent way to gain practical experience and make industry connections.

skills and competencies

You need the following soft skills to be a successful game developer:

  • programming language proficiency: You need to learn coding as a game developer. Building computer and video games requires high-level coding skills, and proficiency in various programming languages can improve your work outcomes. The programming languages often depend on the games you want to create.
  • creativity: A game developer should be creative and have artistic prowess to create unique and engaging games for the market. Creative skills help you develop visually attractive games by incorporating unique themes or animations to entertain and engage players.
  • problem-solving skills: You need problem-solving skills to help you deal with various problems that arise during video game production. For example, testing and correcting bugs takes time, and without problem-solving skills, you may spend hours resolving a minor issue.
  • visual storytelling skills: You need unique and visually appealing games to encourage players to keep playing. Storytelling skills can be useful when developing the characters and incorporating the themes. Humor and suspense leave an impression on the players and immerse them in the games.
  • time management skills: Developing games takes time despite working with a large team. Sometimes, you work on multiple games with strict deadlines. Time management helps you prioritize tasks to complete the games on time.
hand navigating on a tablet screen
hand navigating on a tablet screen
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FAQs about working as a game developer

Here, you will find answers to the most frequently asked questions about game developers.

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