I'm a graduating senior in 2008 and I'm considering trying to get a job in the games industry. I have a 3.3 gpa in Computer Science at UCLA and I have no internship in the games industry. On the plus side, I have a 2d fighting game that I've been working on in my spare time (the code is viewable here: http://2d-fighting-game.googlecode.com/svn/trunk/). My question is, how hard, or even possible, would it be for me to get a job as a programmer in games? I feel like because of my GPA and lack of industry experience, most companies won't even seriously look my resume. I am considering the following options: 1) I currently have a couple offers from non-games companies. Would working at one of these jobs and trying again in a couple years help? 2) If I fleshed out that game I mentioned earlier, would that help at all? How much will companies *actually* care about that versus real industry experience? 3) (this is a more general question, so feel free to ignore it...) My ultimate and not-so-secret goal is to one day work on actual game design (instead of just programming). How common is it for people to transition from game programming to some sort of design role? I'm especially interested in answers from people who've looked at a lot of resumes of people applying to a games company. Honest/straight answers are appreciated! EDIT: I should add that I think I'm smarter than my GPA. But everyone thinks that about themselves!

>> I'm considering trying to get a job in the games industry.

Perhaps you should work on that. You might eventually decide "I'm going to get a job" instead.

>> My question is, how hard, or even possible, would it be for me to get a job as a programmer in games?

Not so much more difficult than it is in other fields. How many companies have you contacted? How many people inside the industry have you asked to help you find jobs, critique your resume, and otherwise evaluate you as harshly as an HR manager? How much real effort have you put into it?

>> I feel like because of my GPA and lack of industry experience, most companies won't even seriously look my resume.

I'm sorry you feel that way. Most companies look at what you tell them you have actually done. If you aren't too comfortable with your GPA then don't bring it up unless they ask. Detail the things that you feel are your strong reasons to work there. Make friends (in the physical world) with other game developers, attend IGDA meetings, and otherwise get involved. Also, make sure your resume describes what you actually did rather than just listing a bunch of keywords with some Internet links.

>> 1) I currently have a couple offers from non-games companies. Would working at one of these jobs and trying again in a couple years help?

Maybe. Having some real work experience will broaden your world view and give you a wide range of experiences to fall back on. But not working in the industry when you graduate will also hurt when compared to other employees. Follow your passions.

Do you need a job right now? If you need a job right now and have an offer, take it. If you need money for support it is much easier to find a job while you are employed. If you are living with your parents or otherwise don't need the money, then you need to make that decision for yourself.

>> 2) If I fleshed out that game I mentioned earlier, would that help at all? How much will companies *actually* care about that versus real industry experience?

I personally care about two things: If you can do the job well, and if will you fit in. Everything else is just evidence of it.

Completing your degree is evidence you can do the job. Having already been involved in a published game is strong evidence you can do the job. A portfolio for a programmer is minor evidence that you can do the job. (This is different than for an artist or modeler.) If you can show how your skills relate to making games, you will have a much stronger case.

>> 3) (this is a more general question, so feel free to ignore it...) My ultimate and not-so-secret goal is to one day work on actual game design (instead of just programming). How common is it for people to transition from game programming to some sort of design role?

It is common enough that if you seriously want to do it, you can.

graduating senior wrote:

>I have a 2d fighting game

Only one game does not a sufficient portfolio make.

>how hard, or even possible, would it be for me to get a job as a programmer in games?

Pretty hard, with just one game in your portfolio. Don't ask "how possible," though - anything is possible, which makes possibility fairly meaningless.

>1) I currently have a couple offers from non-games companies. Would working at one of these jobs and trying again in a couple years help?

It will help you keep a roof over your head, and give you time to build a more robust portfolio.

>2) If I fleshed out that game I mentioned earlier, would that help at all? How much will companies *actually* care about that versus real industry experience?

We care what's in your portfolio a great deal.

3) ... My ultimate and not-so-secret goal is to one day work on actual game design (instead of just programming). How common is it for people to transition from game programming to some sort of design role?

It happens all the time.

>I'm especially interested in answers from people who've looked at a lot of resumes of people applying to a games company.

I receive resumes every day. I recommend you read these articles:
http://www.sloperama.com/advice/lesson27.htm
http://www.sloperama.com/advice/lesson24.htm

> I think I'm smarter than my GPA.

That's shweet that you think that, but it's irrelevant.

Quote:

Original post by cyrano741 1) I currently have a couple offers from non-games companies. Would working at one of these jobs and trying again in a couple years help? 2) If I fleshed out that game I mentioned earlier, would that help at all? How much will companies *actually* care about that versus real industry experience? 3) (this is a more general question, so feel free to ignore it...) My ultimate and not-so-secret goal is to one day work on actual game design (instead of just programming). How common is it for people to transition from game programming to some sort of design role? I'm especially interested in answers from people who've looked at a lot of resumes of people applying to a games company. Honest/straight answers are appreciated! EDIT: I should add that I think I'm smarter than my GPA. But everyone thinks that about themselves!

Answers to your questions
1. Job experience is always a plus. You'll develop communication skills and further programming knowledge through application. Trust me on this one. Communication is integral to your success. Most employers wouldn't think twice about denying a pompous, shy, lazy candidate despite his 4.0 GPA and M.S. in Computer Science.

2. Demos and examples are usually required for any game programming position. You need to have something even if it's small. If you get a non-game programming job like you said, you could present your knowledge through applications you've developed with your first company.

3. I really don't know the answer to this one. They're two separate entities, so I can assume transition would take some work on your part. I suggest you visit game company websites that are hiring and read their job requirements for game design. www.blizzard.com/jobopp has some design positions available (or posted as of now). Since they're a major player in the industry, you might want to use their requirements as a model.

Here's what I was referring to. I put the important concepts and answers to your questions in bold:

Quote:

http://www.blizzard.com/jobopp/designer-senior-game.shtml Requirements * 3+ years game design experience including Senior -or- Lead Design experience on a shipped product. * Excellent written and verbal communication skills * Absolute Passion for playing and making computer games. * Ability to work well in a team environment Pluses * Bachelors Degree or equivalent experience * Experienced in Designing, Playing Online Role Playing games * Non-design development experience (as an artist, sound designer, programmer, etc).

Tom gives great advice, and has a track record to back it up. I would take his advice to heart.

Exactly what kind of programming job are you looking for with a 2D game in your portfolio?

Well, you think you are smarter than your gpa, and maybe you are, why do you feel so embarassed by that?
I tell you something , i am graduated in electrhonics engeneering
( phd + various masters around the globe ) , i know most people who get A and they are completely clueless when they are about to solve a problem .
An high grade means that you know how to study, applying knowledge is another kettle of fish , as we use to say.