As technology advances and more people become interested in playing video games, there is an increasing demand for skilled and knowledgeable video game testers. These professionals are responsible for identifying and reporting on any errors or bugs in the software before it is released to the public, ensuring that the final product is of high quality and meets the expectations of players.
If you’re passionate about gaming and have a keen eye for detail, becoming a video game tester could be the perfect career for you. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore everything you need to know about how to become a video game tester, from the required skills and qualifications to the different types of testing that are involved in the process.
What is a video game tester?
A video game tester, also known as a game tester or quality assurance (QA) specialist, is a professional who tests computer games before they are released to the public. They are responsible for identifying and reporting on any errors or bugs in the software, as well as ensuring that the final product meets the expectations of players.
What skills do you need to become a video game tester?
To become a video game tester, there are several key skills that you will need to possess. These include:
- Technical knowledge: A deep understanding of computer systems and programming languages is essential for a video game tester. You should have experience with software testing tools, programming languages, and operating systems.
- Problem-solving skills: Video game testers need to be able to identify and solve problems quickly and efficiently. They must be able to think critically and logically in order to find bugs and errors in the software.
- Attention to detail: A video game tester should have a keen eye for detail, as they will need to catch even the most minor errors and issues in the software.
- Communication skills: Effective communication is essential for a video game tester, as they must be able to clearly explain any problems they find to developers and other stakeholders.
- Time management: Video game testing can be a time-consuming process, so it’s important that you have strong time management skills in order to meet deadlines and complete tasks efficiently.
- Knowledge of gaming industry: Understanding the gaming industry and its trends is essential for a video game tester. They should have knowledge about different types of games and players’ expectations.
What are the qualifications required to become a video game tester?
In addition to the skills mentioned above, there are several qualifications that you may need to possess in order to become a video game tester. These include:
- Education: A degree in computer science or a related field is often preferred for a video game tester, although it is not always required.
- Certification: Some employers may require certification from a recognized testing organization, such as the International Institute of Software Testing (ISTQB).
- Work experience: Experience in software testing, particularly in the gaming industry, can be beneficial for a video game tester.
- Portfolio: Having a portfolio of your previous work, including any bug reports or test cases you have created, can help demonstrate your skills and experience to potential employers.
- References: References from previous employers or colleagues can provide valuable insights into your work ethic and problem-solving abilities.
- Soft skills: Good communication, teamwork, and adaptability are also important qualities for a video game tester.
How do you become a video game tester?
Becoming a video game tester typically involves the following steps:
- Education: If you don’t have a degree in computer science or a related field, consider enrolling in an online course or program to learn more about software testing and the gaming industry.
- Gain experience: Look for internships or entry-level positions at game development studios or software testing companies. This will give you hands-on experience in the field and help you build a portfolio of your work.
- Build your skills: Continuously improve your technical knowledge, problem-solving skills, and communication abilities by taking online courses, attending workshops, and participating in industry events.
- Network: Connect with other professionals in the gaming and software testing industries by attending networking events, joining online communities, or reaching out to potential employers on LinkedIn.
- Apply for jobs: Once you have gained experience and built your skills, start applying for video game tester positions at game development studios and software testing companies. Be sure to highlight your relevant experience, education, and certifications in your resume and cover letter.
- Prepare for interviews: Research the company and the role you are applying for, prepare examples of bugs or errors you have found and how you have resolved them, and be ready to answer questions about your problem-solving skills and experience.
- Continuously learn: As a video game tester, you will need to constantly update your knowledge and skills in order to keep up with the latest developments in the gaming and software testing industries.
Types of video game testing
As we mentioned earlier, there are several different types of video game testing that are involved in the process. These include:
- Functional testing: This type of testing is designed to ensure that the game is working as intended, and that all of its features are functioning properly.
- Performance testing: This type of testing is designed to identify any performance issues with the game, such as slow loading times or frame rate drops.
- Usability testing: This type of testing is designed to evaluate how easy and intuitive it is for players to use the game. It includes tasks such as finding information, completing objectives, and navigating the game world.
- Security testing: This type of testing is designed to identify any potential security vulnerabilities in the game, such as hacking or cheating.
- Compatibility testing: This type of testing is done when the game is being localized for a new audience, it involves checking the translation, cultural adaptations and functionalities of the game.
- Localization testing: This type of testing is designed to ensure that the game is compatible with different hardware and software configurations.
Real-life examples of video game testers
To give you a better understanding of what a career as a video game tester might entail, let’s take a look at some real-life examples:
- QA specialist at Ubisoft: As a QA specialist at Ubisoft, you would be responsible for testing the company’s games, such as Assassin’s Creed and Far Cry, to ensure that they are free of bugs and errors. You would also work closely with game developers to identify any issues and provide feedback on how to improve the game.
- Game tester at Electronic Arts: As a game tester at Electronic Arts, you would be responsible for testing the company’s games, such as FIFA and Madden NFL, to ensure that they are free of bugs and errors. You would also work closely with game developers to identify any issues and provide feedback on how to improve the game.
- Senior QA Engineer at Activision: As a senior QA engineer at Activision, you would be responsible for overseeing the testing process for the company’s games, such as Call of Duty and World of Warcraft. You would work closely with game developers to ensure that their games are free of bugs and errors before release.
- Quality Assurance Analyst at Nintendo: As a quality assurance analyst at Nintendo, you would be responsible for testing the company’s games, such as Super Mario Odyssey and The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. You would work closely with game developers to identify any issues and provide feedback on how to improve the game.
- Test Engineer at Rockstar Games: As a test engineer at Rockstar Games, you would be responsible for testing the company’s games, such as Grand Theft Auto and Red Dead Redemption. You would work closely with game developers to identify any issues and provide feedback on how to improve the game.
Conclusion
Becoming a video game tester can be a rewarding career for those who have a passion for gaming and a keen eye for detail. With the right skills, qualifications, and experience, you can become an essential part of the game development process and help ensure that games are released with minimal bugs and errors.
