How Do I Become a Video Game Developer?

I'm ready to die for this. Also, I know you guys want what's in my picture.

There are two paths you could follow.

1. Education path:
Get a degree in anything that will help you get the skills to become a game developer. You're looking at computer science, software or computer engineering. When you get your degree you can apply to several video game studios, and you should get a job. That would make you a game developer and get you a steady job at the same time.

2. Solo path:
Learn the skills on your own and make your own projects. That would mean going towards the indie path and hoping to be able to release your stuff. That is way more risky but this might be more the kind of stuff you're looking for.



I definitely think the first option is better, but that is up to you.

Not quite sure, its quite hard. do you even know how to develop a game?

I wanted to be a game developer also...
i will choose sofware engineering course.. next year :P

What if I do both? Overall, what should be the very first step?

These videos are so essential

http://www.escapistmagazine.com/videos/view/extra-credits/2443-So-You-Want-to-be-a-Game-Designer

http://www.escapistmagazine.com/videos/view/extra-credits/2713-Playing-Like-a-Designer-Part-1

http://www.escapistmagazine.com/videos/view/extra-credits/2738-Playing-Like-a-Designer-Part-2

there's more in the site.

Learn code.
Learn platforming programing.
Get whatever gaming programing program... which i learning Novelty and LUNA.

@Kaimax Escapist, thanks.

@Anim Which codes?

Not sure if serious.

C++, C, java, XNA. I guess it depends on what it going to be played on Xbox/ps3. psp, mobile, vn, or pc platform.

http://www.ehow.com/how_6653376_create-xbox-video-game.html

What about PC games?

Learn to program like there's no tomorrow.
Start by learning a programming language, (Java, C#, C++...). I recommend C#.
Make some simple programs using the stuff you have learned.
Then move on to learning how to make a simple game. Then do more complex things in your game.

Don't go java just because it works on multi platform. It is a bitch to work with.
A great man once said, "saying you like java because it works on all platforms is like saying you like anal sex because it works on both genders."

Of course, doing both would benefit you the most.

I recommended getting a degree, because it is the safest bet. Video game companies will hire people based on their degrees. However, there might be some exceptions if you're very good. But on most cases this will just never happen.

Then again, skills are very important, as there are technical exams when doing interviews for gaming studios.

As far as programming language as concerned, I would recommend learning C++. Memory management is very important when working on consoles with limited memory.

Do education path for programming degree and make an awesome portfolio to get hired in the industry before indie studio. I believe that to be a decent map for self success.
Debugging... lots of it.

Yes, Java is a pain. lol That was the first language I learned and got tired of it after a year. Switched to C# after complaining to the teacher how much of a pain it was.

It would definitely help you a lot if you started getting into making mods for games, a lot of people actually get jobs with game companies from being part of the modding scene. It also will look good on your resume as a game developer.

I'm not sure if you're looking at being one by creating game concepts or through actual programming. From the previous posts it looks like you wanna try all the positions. So if that's the case try grabbing a game engine and fiddling around with it.

Right now, I've decided to learn C++, then C#, then C.

Also, after watching those Escapist videos, I realized I naturally do a whole lot of what game designers do with games. I think I'd be a natural at designing games, but hm, I'm willing to be a programmer and a designer. Really, I just want all the skills I need to make this standalone game version of a map from WC3, kinda like Dota2. If other people ever decide to help me, it'd just be a plus.

Just read a lot of the comments. Let's get some things clear. Creating a profitable, professional, and high profile game will require more than one person working with different parts of the game.

*Graphics Designer, Character Artist, UI Programmer, AI Programmer, Director, Producer, Environment Programmer (If the game doesn't already run on a pre-existing engine), and etc.

Really there's a bunch of occupations tied to video game development, simply look at the credits of your favorite game and you'll see a whole list of different types of jobs required to make the game. Browse websites of gaming companies and look at what they're hiring, then act accordingly.