Video game design is a unique career direction that offers the chance to bring imaginative worlds to life, create engaging stories and characters, and influence how players experience games. But is game design a good career overall? Like any other profession, game design comes with its own set of challenges and rewards. Before you commit to studying game design and working towards a job in the field, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons of the industry.
Benefits of Being a Video Game Designer
It’s a Creative Job
Being a video game designer means getting to use your imagination and creativity every single day to bring worlds, characters, and stories to life. Best of all, the work you do is made for the purpose of sharing with others and providing people with an experience they’re meant to enjoy.
You’ll Work With a Lot of Talented People
While it’s possible to work as an independent video game designer, most people in the industry work for studios as a member of a team. Besides other artists and designers, individuals in this field work closely with programmers, writers, sound designers, and other talented creatives. Working with a range of people with unique skills fosters a dynamic, engaging work environment where you’re always learning something new and contributing to the success of your team.
The Industry is Growing
The video game industry is massive. By 2027, the market value is projected to exceed $291 billion. While game designers are already in demand, that need will only continue to increase in the coming years. More than 32,000 job vacancies are expected to be filled through 2029, marking a 2% increase annually.
There’s No Single Path Into Game Design
The skills you learn in a game design degree program provide you with opportunities across the gaming industry. Even if you’re passionate about having a career in game design specifically, roles including level design, lead design, and game animation are available. This variety allows you to develop and capitalize on niche skills that suit your interests.
You Can Turn Your Hobby Into a Job
Many video game industry employees got their start simply from a love for gaming. Chances are high that if you’re considering a degree in game design, you share those same passions. Working in game design means you get to do what you love every day and continue to innovate within the industry for future gamers to enjoy.
Challenges for Game Designers (And How to Overcome Them)
Working Long Hours
The video game industry is known for long working hours, especially during “crunch time.” This is the period of time leading up to a project’s deadline. Over time, this can lead to burnout.
How to overcome
It’s important to set boundaries and focus on good time management. Prioritize tasks and communicate openly with other members of your team. You can also research company policies before accepting jobs, as some studios are starting to move away from the crunch time culture and emphasizing a greater work-life balance for employees.
The Hiring Pool is Very Competitive
Even though there are growing opportunities in game design, there are a lot of talented individuals vying for the same positions.
How to overcome
Expand your skillset, take up a new specialization, continue building your resume, and maintain a strong network within the industry. Internships and side projects are especially important, and you should take full advantage of the experience and connections these opportunities provide.
There May Be Creative Differences
Working in any collaborative environment is bound to lead to creative differences at some point. You may feel very strongly about your ideas and want to see them turn into something real.
How to overcome
Improve your communication skills and learn to be open to compromise. Accept feedback and be willing to adapt your ideas in a way that can resolve conflicts and maintain a positive work environment.
Study Game Design at Villa
Did you know Villa Maria College has WNY’s only game design program? Our program is jam-packed with opportunities for students who are passionate about video games and using their creativity to bring unique ideas to life. Get in touch today to learn more about our program and facilities.
