Becoming a video game tester revolves around having the know-how around how games work. The goal is always to break the game by figuring out any code that isn’t working. It requires a lot of expertise to become the person that identifies any loopholes in a game, in a bid to make sure that everything is as functional as it is supposed to be.
The period it takes to master the art of a video game tester finally ultimately depends on the type of games you major in, and how quick you are at figuring things out. With time not being such a major concern, how does one really become a successful video game tester?
Familiarize with all game franchise
There are millions of games available online. The excitement of being a video game player among most people is mostly due to the thought of having to play their favorite game all day long, and getting paid for it. While you may think that your expertise in one type will go a long way in determining the success of your career as a video game tester, you will be surprised at how rarely that happens.
As part of the job description, you cannot specify which games you would rather test. Most times the games that will be thrown your way are those that you are not entirely keen on, unless on a few lucky days. For someone who will be working several hours staring on a screen, you might as well get yourself acquainted with several game franchises, so you do not get disadvantaged once you start your career.
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Take some classes
Much as becoming a video game tester is a dream career for most people, it does not just happen overnight. Most video game testers have taken some courses in line with game mechanics. Some go for video game developing classes, while others opt for a programming course.
Whichever courses you resolve for, the goal is to gather a couple of insights as to how you will maneuver around different devices, including laptops, game consoles, and smartphones. The skills you need to gather are not necessarily technical, but rather basic skills like language, communication, coding, technical writing, to mention a few.
Have your own supplies
If you really are interested with being a guru in video game testing, then you cannot lie around waiting on opportunities to try out games on people’s devices, or wait until you are hired to start practicing. Organize to purchase some of your supplies that will ground you in constant practicing until you fully master the art.
For instance, you may want to look into purchasing the best router for gaming, a high graphics card PC, gaming consoles and peripherals, among others. If you are very serious about it and want to take it to the next level, raise your standards by buying a comfortable gaming chair and gaming desk, and get gaming. However, remember that some gaming supplies can be pretty expensive. Therefore, be smart in your spendings and choice of suppliers. Do not for whatever reason compromise on quality, because your goal is to be the best.
Embrace creativity
It cannot be emphasized enough the significance of creativity in this field. Ideally, a video game tester gets access to new games way early than other gamers, sometimes even before they are launched. At such stages, your level of creativity will allow you to operate much effortlessly and quicker than you would otherwise.
Sometimes, the people you are working within the industry are more learned than you are. In this case, it is your skills, combined with creativity that will push you steadily to a higher rank.
Learn from the best
You do not have to do it alone. The world of video games is full of expertise from gamers to producers of the games, all the way to the other video game testers. There is always something you can learn from other video game testers. Consider benchmarking one tester you know, watch how they do it, and borrow a couple of things so you can as well become a guru.
The good thing about video game testing as a career is not much about the playing on the pay, but more about the numerous opportunities you open yourself to when you start this career. You can consider this job choice as a stepping stone into the game industry, upon which you can rise in rank.
