Live the Dream: Get Paid to Play Video Games

The Reality of Game Testing

What Does a Game Tester Do?

Game testers, also known as quality assurance (QA) testers, play a crucial role in the development of video games. Their primary responsibility is to identify and report bugs, glitches, and other issues that could affect the gaming experience. This process involves:

• Playing the game extensively: Testers play through various levels and scenarios to uncover any potential problems.
• Repetition: They often repeat the same actions multiple times to ensure consistency and identify intermittent issues.
• Documentation: Detailed records of any bugs or issues must be maintained, including steps to reproduce the problem and its impact on gameplay.

The Challenges of Game Testing

While the idea of getting paid to play video games sounds appealing, the reality can be quite different. Game testing can be monotonous and demanding. Testers often work long hours, especially as a game's release date approaches. The repetitive nature of the job can also be mentally exhausting.

According to a survey by the International Game Developers Association (IGDA), 53% of game developers reported working more than 40 hours per week, with 17% working over 60 hours during crunch time (source).

How to Become a Game Tester

Building the Right Skills

To succeed as a game tester, you need more than just a love for video games. Key skills include:

• Attention to detail: The ability to spot even the smallest issues is crucial.
• Patience: Repeating the same actions and documenting bugs requires a high level of patience.
• Communication: Clear and concise reporting of issues is essential for developers to understand and fix problems.

Creating a Strong Resume

A well-crafted resume is your first step towards landing a game testing job. Highlight relevant skills and experience, and consider seeking help from a professional resume writer if needed. Your resume should showcase your:

• Gaming experience: Mention any games you have played extensively and any relevant achievements.
• Technical skills: Familiarity with different gaming platforms and software can be a plus.
• Attention to detail: Provide examples of tasks or projects where you demonstrated meticulous attention to detail.

Applying for Jobs

When applying for game testing positions, make sure your application reaches the right person. Research the company and tailor your resume and cover letter to the specific role. Networking can also be beneficial. Attend gaming conventions, join online forums, and connect with industry professionals on LinkedIn.

The Future of Game Testing

Career Advancement

Starting as a game tester can open doors to various career paths within the gaming industry. With experience, you could move into roles such as:

• Game Designer: Creating the concepts and mechanics of new games.
• Game Programmer: Writing the code that brings games to life.
• Game Artist: Designing the visual elements of games.

Industry Growth

The gaming industry is booming, with global revenue expected to reach $200 billion by 2023 (source). This growth means more opportunities for game testers and other gaming professionals.

Interesting Stats

• Market Size: The global gaming market was valued at $159.3 billion in 2020 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 9.3% from 2021 to 2026 (source).
• Player Demographics: Approximately 2.7 billion people worldwide play video games, with 46% of gamers being female (source).
• Job Satisfaction: Despite the challenges, 70% of game testers report being satisfied with their jobs, citing the opportunity to work on exciting projects as a major perk (source).

Conclusion

Becoming a game tester offers a unique opportunity to turn your passion for gaming into a rewarding career. While the job comes with its challenges, the potential for growth and the chance to work on cutting-edge games make it an attractive option for many. If you're detail-oriented, patient, and have a love for video games, game testing could be the perfect career for you.