What does a Video Game Designer do?

Video Game Designers usually work for video game production studios using their creativity to come up with a cutting-edge game. They develop the overall concept as well as all the creative details of the gameplay, characters, scripts and plot that create the immersive experience. They also work closely with other team members, including artists, writers and developers, to ensure their vision becomes a reality.

Video Game Designer skills and qualifications

Successful Video Game Designers will have various prerequisite skills and qualifications needed to fill the position, including:

• Creative vision to develop unique, engaging games
• Knowledge of what video game players want and what will go over well with consumers
• Technical skills to understand what type of things can go into a video game
• Problem-solving skills to make the game user-friendly and imaginative
• Time management to ensure the project stays on track
• Attention to detail for an end product that’s consistent, makes sense and appeals to the target audience
• Software testing skills to find bugs during the development process, so the final product is user-friendly without glitches
• Communication skills to explain their vision to other people who help with the game’s development

Video Game Designer experience requirements

Video Game Designer careers often start with a love of playing video games. Firsthand experience as a game player helps the Designer understand what players want and what makes for a positive playing experience. They often have coding or design experience, either in a professional capacity or as a hobby. Entry-level applicants with a related degree might find a job working on a small aspect of video game design, such as writing in-game narratives or developing a few characters. They often work their way up to a lead designer role with responsibility for the overall project and supervision of other Video Game Designers.

Video Game Designer education and training requirements

Most Video Game Designers have at least a bachelor’s degree in a related field, such as game design, computer programming or software engineering. Some production companies require Video Game Designers to have a master’s degree in a related program. They might need training or certification in a specific programming language to help with the development.

Job descriptions for similar positions

If you’re looking for a slightly different position, check out the following similar job description examples:

• Computer Programmer
• Graphic Designer
• UX Designer
• Web Designer

Video Game Designer job description FAQs

What is the difference between a Video Game Designer and a Video Game Developer?

A Video Game Designer typically handles the creative part of developing a new video game. They develop the overall concept and details that make the concept come to life. The Video Game Developer handles all of the technical components by coding the game to make the design elements a reality. These two crucial roles work together closely as they develop and build a new video game.

What qualities make a good Video Game Designer?

Creative vision is a key quality of a successful Video Game Designer. To stay relevant in a constantly evolving industry, the production studio needs innovative Designers to give them the edge over competitors. Tiny details are often essential to a video game’s success for both visual appeal and functionality to avoid bugs in the design. A team player is also beneficial since many people are involved in the development process.

What makes a good Video Game Designer job description?

Write a job description that captures your production studio’s branding and values to ensure you find a compatible candidate. If you develop video games for young kids, make this explicit in the job description. Likewise, if you create video games with mature content, applicants need to know this to ensure it fits their skill set and that they’re comfortable with that type of material.

What should you look for in a Video Game Designer resume?

In addition to a relevant degree and previous Video Game Designer experience, look for an applicant who shows creativity in their resume through the design or wording. Strong applicants make their passion for video game design show through in their cover letter and resume.