Here's how you can level up from a gaming hobbyist to a professional in the industry.
Transitioning from a gaming hobbyist to a professional in the industry can seem like a daunting leap, but with the right approach and dedication, it's a journey that can be both exciting and rewarding. Whether you dream of becoming a game developer, a competitive gamer, or another key player in the gaming world, understanding the industry's landscape and honing your skills are crucial steps. This article will guide you through the process of leveling up your gaming passion into a professional career, offering actionable insights and advice to help you navigate this dynamic and ever-evolving industry.
To make a mark in the gaming industry, you need to transform your passion into tangible skills. Start by identifying your niche—be it game design, programming, or esports—and then dive deep into learning everything about it. Online courses, tutorials, and forums can be invaluable resources. Practice is key; create small projects or join online communities to test your skills in real-world scenarios. Networking with industry professionals can also provide mentorship opportunities and insights into industry standards.
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Dominion Eromosele
Building Community and Events @Carry1st
My first 3 projects were all small projects I started myself before anyone paid me for anything. The key is to find a small task that you can do to test the skills you are working towards and do it well
Experience is invaluable in the gaming industry, so seek out opportunities to practice your craft. Participate in game jams or local meetups to collaborate with others and showcase your skills. Volunteering to work on indie game projects can also be a great way to gain practical experience and build your portfolio. Remember, every project you contribute to enhances your understanding of the gaming process and serves as a testament to your dedication and ability to potential employers.
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Catherine Litvaitis
Senior Community Manager for Video Games | Community and Social Media Strategy, Marketing Production, Brand Voice Development | 3x GDC Speaker
Start a side project! Nothing will prepare you more for a game career than learning to make a game. It gives you something to discuss in interviews and helps flesh out your portfolio. If you do game jams, you'll also gain experience working with others as part of a team, which is another useful skill in this industry.
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Dominion Eromosele
Building Community and Events @Carry1st
For developers, game jams are the absolute best way! Find virtual weekend jams on platforms like itch.io. Contribute on this mini games with professionals around the world and you can have titles added to your name
A compelling portfolio is your ticket to professional recognition in the gaming industry. It should highlight your best work and reflect your unique talents and skills. Include a variety of projects that showcase your range—this can be anything from game mods you've created to levels you've designed. Make sure your portfolio is accessible online and easy to navigate, as this is often the first impression you'll make on potential employers or collaborators.
Networking is a powerful tool for career advancement in the gaming industry. Attend industry conferences, workshops, and gaming events to meet peers and professionals. Engage with the gaming community on social media platforms and forums. These connections can lead to collaborations, job opportunities, and valuable insights into industry trends and needs. Be genuine in your interactions and show enthusiasm for others' work as well as your own.
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Dominion Eromosele
Building Community and Events @Carry1st
A great networking tip is to find posts made by industry leaders you intend to connect with and always leave insightful comments to what they say. Eventually, the algorithm favors you and your content appears consistently in their timeline
The gaming industry is fast-paced, with new technologies and trends emerging constantly. Stay informed by following industry news, subscribing to relevant publications, and participating in online communities. Knowledge of the latest game engines, software updates, and market shifts can give you an edge over the competition. Being well-informed not only improves your skill set but also demonstrates your commitment to the industry.
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Dominion Eromosele
Building Community and Events @Carry1st
You can find gaming news on podcasts or checking great blogs like gamedeveloper.com, IGN and pocketgamer.biz. Developing a steady routine of checking these platforms daily puts you ahead of 70% of the industry when it comes to knowledge of the ecosystem
As you progress, consider specializing in a specific area of the gaming industry that aligns with your interests and strengths. Whether it's virtual reality, artificial intelligence in gaming, or narrative design, becoming an expert in a niche area can make you particularly valuable. Research where the demand is and what specialties might offer more opportunities. Specialization can help you stand out and can lead to more advanced positions within the industry.
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