Video Game Designer

Job Description: Video game designers develop concepts, create characters and environments, and then test and modify the games they have built. Video game designers may have roles in both the artistic aspects (how the game looks) and the technical aspects (how the game is built/how it performs.)

Salary Range: Video game designers can earn as much as $90,000 annually according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Designers with excellent programming skills will command the highest salaries.

Education: Degrees in 3D animation, software design, computer science, and even graphic design will ensure that emerging game designers have an understanding of both the artistic and technical aspects of video game design. An interest in playing video games and the ability to think critically about their functions and attributes will be extremely helpful in visualizing and improving upon existing technology.

Outlook: The US Department of Labor predicts 46% growth in the video game industry between 2002 and 2012. As 3D animation technology becomes increasingly sophisticated, the median age of video game players increases. The supply of new, tech-savvy games must be able to meet this demand.

Personality Traits: The ability to problem solve is crucial. Video games exist as a series of 3D images supported by programming language. It may seem like a highly creative career, but video game designing is actually a technology-driven industry that requires incredible skill. People who like to play video games and have an understanding of their structure will fare well in this industry.

Career Path: Game Tester > Background Artist > Video Game Designer > Creative Director