How do I Become a Game Programmer?

The skills you will need to become a game programmer usually depend on the employer with which you seek a job. Many employers in this field prefer to hire candidates who have the same type of background, however. In most cases, game programmer employers expect to hire individuals who have college degrees in computer science or a closely related major as well as knowledge and experience with programming languages. High math aptitude is usually a necessity for this job as well.

Before you decide to go forward with preparation to become a game programmer, you may do well to spend at least some time evaluating the qualities that make you right for this job. If you have a high level of math ability, you may do well in this career. If you struggle with math, on the other hand, this may not be the best career for you. To achieve success in this career, you will usually need experience with computers and at least basic knowledge of how game programs work as a foundation to build on in college. Additionally, you may do well to analyze whether you truly enjoy video games and have a personality that is well suited to this career.

While each employer’s requirements for game programmers may be different, many prefer job candidates who have earned college degrees in computer science or a similar major. While in college, you will likely learn programming languages that will prove critical when you need to program games. You may also take math classes that will help you to understand and write computer code.

In addition to attending college in pursuit of a degree in computer science, you may also help to prepare yourself for this career by experimenting with game creation at home. By doing so, you may build skills you can eventually use in a job. You may also learn, through trial and error, the best ways to handle programming problems or get the desired effect in a game. Even simple gaming projects are helpful for skill building as you work to become a game programmer.

Internships may also prove helpful when you want to become a game programmer. Internships that allow you build on and practice the skills you learn in college and through independent practice may provide excellent preparation for this career. Additionally, some employers are reluctant to hire inexperienced programmers, but your successful completion of an internship or two may help convince them to give you a chance.