Can You Make Side Money Testing Video Games for Companies?
Are you a gaming enthusiast looking to turn your passion into a side income? Video game testing might just be the perfect opportunity for you. Many companies are on the lookout for individuals who can help them ensure their games are bug-free and enjoyable for players. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of video game testing, exploring the various aspects of this exciting career path.
Understanding Video Game Testing
Video game testing is the process of identifying and reporting bugs, glitches, and other issues in a game before it is released to the public. Testers play the game, often for long hours, to uncover any problems that could affect the player experience. This role is crucial in the game development process, as it helps ensure that the final product is of high quality.
How to Get Started
Getting started in video game testing requires a few key steps:
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Build a portfolio: Create a portfolio showcasing your gaming skills and experience. This can include screenshots of games you’ve tested, bug reports, and any other relevant information.
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Join online communities: Engage with other gamers and game developers on platforms like Reddit, Discord, and LinkedIn. This can help you network and learn about job opportunities.
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Apply for testing positions: Look for job listings on websites like Indeed, Glassdoor, and Game Testing Jobs. Be prepared to submit your portfolio and demonstrate your skills during the interview process.
The Role of a Video Game Tester
As a video game tester, your responsibilities may include:
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Playing the game: Spend a significant amount of time playing the game to identify bugs and glitches.
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Reporting bugs: Document any issues you encounter, including steps to reproduce them, and submit detailed reports to the development team.
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Testing different aspects: Ensure that the game’s mechanics, graphics, sound, and user interface are functioning correctly.
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Collaborating with the team: Work closely with developers, designers, and other testers to resolve issues and improve the game.
What to Expect in Terms of Pay
The pay for video game testers can vary widely depending on the company, the complexity of the game, and your experience level. According to Glassdoor, the average annual salary for a video game tester in the United States is around $45,000. However, some testers may earn significantly more, especially those with specialized skills or experience.
| Experience Level | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Entry-Level | $30,000 – $40,000 |
| Mid-Level | $40,000 – $50,000 |
| Senior-Level | $50,000 – $60,000 |
Pros and Cons of Video Game Testing
Like any job, video game testing has its pros and cons:
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Pros:
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Enjoyable work: Testers get to play games for a living, which is a dream job for many.
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Flexible schedule: Many testing positions offer flexible hours, allowing you to work around your other commitments.
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Opportunity for growth: With experience, you can move up to more advanced positions, such as quality assurance manager or game designer.
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Cons:
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Long hours: Testers often have to work long hours, especially during crunch time before a game’s release.
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Stressful environment: The pressure to find and report bugs can be stressful, especially when working under tight deadlines.
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Competitive job market: The video game industry is
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