The “Big 3” in video gaming, Sony, Microsoft and Nintendo, accounted for about 30% of the $184 billion generated globally in 2022, leaving significant room for expansion among smaller companies as the industry predicts continuous revenue growth. Statista forecasts a steady climb in revenue through 2029, estimating that the sector will reach nearly $667 billion in 2029.
These industry dynamics make game development an attractive field to pursue. Some of the most in-demand gaming jobs include:
- Game designer. As a senior role in development, designers must be proficient in building game architecture, documenting workflows and scripting processes. While mastering software and coding languages is not a core competency, it is a competitive advantage.
- System designer. The role is related to game design but has distinct responsibilities. For instance, systems professionals concentrate on developing the software that powers games’ rules and interactive dynamics. In-depth scripting, software and hardware knowledge are core competencies.
- Game programmer. Key tasks for this role include software and code development. Because the position involves coding for processes ranging from overall game balance to synching audio with interactive video, proficiency in various coding languages is necessary.
In an article for TechSpot, Nick Evanson writes that a career in the video gaming industry is perfect for avid gamers or those interested in computer science (CS). According to Evanson, “For most people working in the industry, the biggest draws are the creative freedom that game development offers and the opportunity to tackle a variety of challenges. The ultimate reward is creating something that is enjoyed and loved by thousands of people worldwide.”
How Do People Get Into the Video Gaming Industry?
Earning a CS degree is an ideal way to advance a career in video game development.
Among other benefits, CS professionals have a foundational knowledge of the computer languages that make the magic of video games possible. Moreover, CS insights and understandings are diverse skill sets, opening career paths to game architecture, design, testing, quality assurance and other areas. In addition, 3D modeling is disrupting the industry. The emerging technology immerses users in an interactive digital experience in virtual and augmented realities.
3D Game Programming, a course offered by the Norfolk State University (NSU) online Master of Science (M.S.) in Computer Science program, puts graduates on the leading edge of video gaming technology. The hands-on course challenges students to design, implement and test a 3D game. The project helps future-proof careers by empowering students to deepen their skills in interactivity, animation, sound and other critical aspects of game development.
The program’s introduction to game design and development covers a wide range, beginning with the history of video games, various genres, level and user interface design and documentation.
“Game makers have always focused on applying computer science to improve user experience. Accordingly, games with sophisticated graphics and more complex features often attract many players,” Computer Careers notes, adding that CS “is the key to creating video games and perfecting the player experience in the new era.”
Practical Applications of Computer Science in Video Gaming
Video games are computers. They use internal databases to manage player profiles, game progress and other facets to maintain consistency and enable saving and loading. They run on algorithms that optimize performance. As a result, they require implementing coding best practices for version control, testing and debugging.
Norfolk State’s online M.S. Computer Science program teaches students these best practices and the skills needed to pursue successful careers in the gaming industry.
Learn more about Norfolk State University’s online Master of Science in Computer Science program.
