Discover How to Become a Game Tester and Get Paid to Play

The Allure of Game Testing

Video game testing is a coveted role among gamers. The idea of getting paid to play games is incredibly appealing, but it's not as simple as it sounds. Game testers are responsible for identifying bugs, glitches, and other issues to ensure a smooth gaming experience for the end user. This job requires a keen eye for detail, excellent analytical skills, and a deep understanding of gaming mechanics.

The Competitive Landscape

The game testing community is tight-knit and competitive. Many job openings are filled through personal networks, making it challenging for outsiders to break in. However, if you're an expert gamer with experience across various platforms, you have a good chance of landing a position. While formal education isn't a requirement, top-notch gaming skills are essential.

Steps to Become a Game Tester

Step 1: Network with Game Developers

Establishing connections with game developers is crucial. These companies rarely advertise game testing positions publicly. Instead, they often hire through internal networks. By reaching out to developers, you increase your chances of being considered for future openings.

Step 2: Craft a Polished Resume

Your resume should highlight your gaming experience and skills. Be honest about your abilities and include details about the games you play and the hours you spend gaming. Enthusiasm and commitment to improving game quality are key traits developers look for.

Step 3: Demonstrate Your Commitment

Show that you understand the role of a game tester and its importance in releasing a quality product. Mention any bugs or glitches you've identified in games you've played, demonstrating your analytical skills and attention to detail.

Step 4: Understand Technical Jargon

Familiarize yourself with the technical terms used in game testing. Knowing what bugs, glitches, and coding errors mean will set you apart from other candidates. Mention specific errors you've found in games to showcase your understanding.

Step 5: Search for Quality Assurance Jobs

Many game testing positions are listed under Quality Assurance (QA) departments. Broaden your job search to include QA roles, as these often encompass game testing responsibilities.

Step 6: Provide Specific Feedback

If you've played games developed by the company you're applying to, mention any glitches you've found. Be specific about the nature of the error and its impact on the game. This can help you establish valuable contacts within the company.

Step 7: Be Persistent

Keep sending out resumes to every game developer you can think of. Even if there are no current openings, your resume will be on file for future opportunities. Persistence is key in this competitive field.

The Importance of Professionalism

Like any job, professionalism is crucial in game testing. While gaming skills and experience are important, presenting yourself as a responsible and capable individual is equally vital. First impressions matter, so make sure yours is positive and memorable.

Interesting Stats About Game Testing

• The global video game industry is expected to reach $159.3 billion in 2020, with a significant portion of that revenue coming from game testing and quality assurance (Source: Newzoo).
• According to the International Game Developers Association (IGDA), 53% of game developers work in QA or testing roles at some point in their careers (Source: IGDA).
• The average salary for a game tester in the United States is around $55,030 per year, with experienced testers earning upwards of $70,000 (Source: Glassdoor).

Conclusion

Becoming a game tester is a dream job for many gamers, but it requires dedication, networking, and a deep understanding of the gaming industry. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can increase your chances of landing a game testing position and turning your passion for gaming into a lucrative career. Remember, persistence and professionalism are key to success in this competitive field.