Game Programmer Information

Training
In order to prepare for a career
in game programming, most
students earn a degree in
computer science. Earning this
degree and succeeding as a
programmer require strong
math skills. Other degrees are
also acceptable, such as those in
cognitive science, physics and
electrical engineering.
Occasionally, a company will
accept applicants who do not
have a degree but who
demonstrate exceptional
capability with programming.
Duties
Most game programmers prefer
to work in a specialized field.
Some enjoy or are talented
working with sound while others
find themselves excelling in the
graphic arena. A game
programmer writes the
information a computer needs in
order to create an image or
sound or other interaction.
Normally, a team of experts will
work together to produce a
game and work with one
another until the project's
completion. Each member of a
programming team must
contribute to the final product.
Programmers may also work to
debug and identify problems
with a program.
Hazards
The hazards of game
programming mostly involve
the repetitive movement
required to type, click and
otherwise manipulate the code
for a specific game. Carpel tunnel
syndrome is a common
problem among careers that
involve excessive amounts of
typing. Fortunately, special
keyboards exist that provide a
more comfortable option for
those who spend much of their
day typing. These keyboards
separate half of the letters so that
the hands are placed on either
side of the keyboard rather than
close together in the center.
Salary
The salary for a game
programmer can vary
depending on experience, time
with a specific company and
location on the team. For
example, in 2009 a lead designer
could earn up to $99,198 per
year. A worker who has recently
entered the field with the title of
"game designer" earned between
$66,711 and $99,198 in 2009, as
reported by Michigan Jobs and
Career Portal.
Considerations
Game programming might
sound like a fun job, but it is not
for everyone. Game
programmers must be proficient
in C++, the language of
computers. This language is
mathematical, as is the career
path. A game programmer must
be able to think logically and be
comfortable working on a
computer as well as on a team
with other programmers. Those
who enjoy solving problems
and puzzles may enjoy a career
in game programming.
References
Michigan Jobs and Career Portal:
Game Designer: Video
Burea of Labor Statistics:
Working So Others Can Play:
Jobs in Video Game
Development
Photo Credit
video game control pad image by
Paul Hill from Fotolia.com