Game testing refers to the act of testing video games with software for quality control purposes. The purpose of video game testing is to find and solve issues in video games in order to improve their performance and stability. Hence, a game tester is anyone who plays video games to find flaws and test game features before they are published to the public.
Most essentially, game testers play video games for more than just amusement. They typically work for video game companies, where they collaborate with programmers and game developers to improve games and get them ready for customers. This makes it easy to identify technical issues that impede a positive user experience.
What they check for:
- Areas of games that are not interesting and interactive
- Bugs and glitches, for example, when a player is trapped in a part of the game and loses control
- If a movement graphic does not work
Game testers are expected to execute particular tasks such as switching the game on and off, playing the games on multiple devices, downloading games while playing others, and replicating sequences that create glitches to pinpoint these issues. By becoming a game tester, you will have access to the most recent games before they are released. This is a rewarding career for those who enjoy playing video games.
Do you think you have the qualities of a game tester? The tips below will enhance your talent and better prepare you for that interview.
- Have a Good Knowledge of the Company and Games
The gaming industry involves consistent interactions between manufacturers, publishers, and developers. You should be familiar with every aspect of the firm you are applying to. Be familiar with the artists, producers, developers, and animators. Learn about the types of games they’ve made in the past and, most importantly, what games they have on the market right now. A good understanding of the games they are producing will also give you an advantage.
- Good Communication Skills
Communication entails the exchange of information between individuals. Good communication includes being able to speak effectively with various individuals while conveying information that is easily understood. It is the foundation of success in many fields of work.
Getting hired at an interview, on the other hand, is a complicated process. Your body language, eye contact with each interviewer, the way you walk, your sitting posture, and the messages you communicate with your body movement are all observed by an interviewer. Employees are urged to read more books to improve their verbal and nonverbal communication abilities for business. Communication may help your career in unimaginable ways, not only by reducing disputes but also by landing your dream video game tester job.
- Work on Your Gaming Practice
If you genuinely want to be a game tester, you should be a regular gamer. You should concentrate on:
- Being proficient and familiar with playing games on desktops, mobile phones, laptops, and various game consoles.
- Exploring features that will enhance your gaming experience
- Gaining experience by playing different kinds of games.
Landing a game tester role may not come easily. You might also need to undertake beta testing to learn about new games and practice your abilities. Keep track of your methods and all you learn during each test. This demonstrates that you approached a game not only as a player but also as an editor.
- Be Able to Keep Secrets
Working as a video game tester necessitates working on an unreleased game. It could be a closely guarded secret. Candidates for the role of game tester should be able to sign and honor non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) and be discreet. Infringing on the terms may result in a lawsuit or a fine. If an interviewer asks you a question about secrets, always respond appropriately.
- Demonstrate Problem Solving Skills
As a game tester, identifying bugs and problems is not enough. It is critical that you provide a solution. Experience with software development and beta testing is advantageous. If you have never worked as a beta tester, be prepared to describe how you proposed a solution to another related problem to the interviewer. Discuss how your solutions saved time, trouble, and money.
Testing video games is an excellent way to break into a profession in the gaming business. People who are interested in working in game testing need to demonstrate an affinity for the role, which goes beyond simply having spent years playing video games. Prospective employers have very particular requirements as it relates to the characteristics that should be present in a candidate, and you should make it a priority to ensure that you can meet those requirements to the best of your ability.
