How to Become a Video Game Tester

Video game companies develop and release thousands of video games every year. One of the most important, factor that helps these companies in producing the best possible game is, a tester. People are always amazed to know that a game tester is not responsible for some complicated programming or designing but, actually plays the game many times before it hits the stores.

Parents consider kids playing video games a waste of time and energy, teenagers consider it to be cool in some cases, others consider it to be geeky, and young grown ups in early twenties consider it to be childish. You may be surprised at the variety of reactions and opinions that you get about video games, but one is always left speechless by the fact that, some people play video games as a job, that earns them their daily bread and butter.

Video game testers do the job of spotting errors in video games. After the game has been designed, the video game testers take over the process and start playing it. During the course of play, they come across many different mistakes, errors and suggestion that are later integrated in the game. They also test the applicability and simplicity of the game. Video game testers also determine, how much, a common man would enjoy the game! So the question that remains is how to become a video game tester?

The first step in the process of becoming a video game tester is to start playing all possible video games many number of times. It is always advisable that one plays all the old games as well as the new ones. After the game has been mastered, start examining the graphics of the game. Some video games can also be completed by crossing the levels in different ways. Try to complete the whole game in the shortest possible time.

The second step is to understand programming and graphics design of video games. If possible, also try to purchase different types of consoles. Make a huge collection that cover all possible types of games in existence. Constantly browse the web for updates on games and try to purchase all the new versions. Start tracking records of all your actions during different levels. Help out your fellow players by constant blogging and keep giving advice to people on the web, once you master that particular game. If this is done at a high frequency and for a long span of time, it will prove to be very effective. Volunteer to write freelance articles for different sites and tell your fellow players about how to actually play and enjoy the game. Try and understand the psychology of the programmer and player.

The next step is to prepare and forward your resume. Companies do not usually advertise their need for video game testers, to avoid a mad and unnecessary rush. Hence frequently browse through the web sites of prominent video game manufacturers, for their requirements. Also constantly visit expos, sales and exhibitions of such companies and develop contacts with the employees of such companies. Do not be afraid to ask your difficulties about the programming of a game or even giving valid suggestions. Constant blogging will also make you familiar with the companies and its employees. Another very good way to become a tester is to first become a programmer or a graphics designer. This will also help you to implement your own ideas. You can also set very high scores while playing online games to display your skills and passion. Often enroll in video game competitions in your city or locality, and try to win every possible competition.

These steps are sure to help you become a video game tester. Getting started with the first job is the most difficult task in this field. The most important thing while searching for the job is that, don't forget to be passionate about playing video games. Landing with a job in such a field is difficult, due to the fact that there are no specific educational qualifications for this career, and companies usually do not advertise the need for testers. If you have really worked hard, and have played video games very seriously, your destination is not that far away.

Via : www.buzzle.com