subject: The Gamers Dream Job - Widespread Misconceptions of Video Game Testing [print this page] Testing video games is a real professionTesting video games is a real profession. While it does not need a suit and tie, video game testers must show professionalism just like white collar jobs. Video game testing is fun if you really have a passion for playing video games. The fact is, you are playing to find bugs and problem situations in the game.
The First Myth:
Video game testers earn $200 per hour. Of course this is false information! Several people running money-making schemes would love for you to believe this myth. In reality, an entry level video game tester earns around $10 to $15 per hour. Veteran game testers are paid at about $80 an hour.
The Second Misconception:
Any kid who likes video games can be hired to test them. Again, this is totally fictitious. Game companies adhere to the same labor laws as any other industry. So, they only use the services of adults over the age of 18.
The Third Misconception:
The job consists of playing the game and offering a few comments and/or suggestions afterward. No, you have to play through the game again and again until you find some glitch or inconsistencies in the level. The game company will send instructions with each game that should be read carefully so that you can include all required information in your report.
The Fourth Myth:
A capable game tester will be a very educated person with above average computer skills. While it is vital to know some things about computers, academic education is not nearly as important.
As far as being computer savvy goes, all you really require is to be capable when using the computer. All you have to be able to do is help yourself.
No college degree is necessary for this job. Familiarity in either console or PC gaming, combined with a talent for noticing details, will be the two skills that serve you best when trying to land one of these jobs.
Video game testing is a fairly new area in the gaming community. You have as much chance to become a professional game tester as much as the other gamer. Just take things step by step, and you may find yourself advancing to the next level: professional game testing! Video game testing can be enjoyable and lucrative for passionate gamers, but beware of scams and myths surrounding the industry.
The Gamers Dream Job - Widespread Misconceptions of Video Game Testing
