Hi game designers,

I'm a student soon to be graduating with my BS in game development. I'd like to specialize in game design with a focus on gameplay and system design. One of my end goals would be to work on Magic: the Gathering on the design team. As I get closer to graduation I'm considering my options, but it seems very difficult to break into the industry, specifically in game design, as it's sort of an “ideas guy” type of position.

In my mind there are three paths:

1. Do independent work and try to release a small game to use as a portfolio piece.
2. Look for an entry-level position at a small company to try to gain experience.
3. Look for an internship-level position at a large company and work your way up.

Can you give your thought and comment on the benefits/drawbacks of these paths or maybe you have other options to present? What skills would you say people look for when hiring for these types of design positions?

Thanks so much for reading!
Josh

Moved to the Careers forum.

1. Go ahead and do that after graduation, if you want.
2. Yes, do that.
3. Yes, try to do that too. (Do all 3.)

Kind of old, but here's a how-to on applying for a game design job: https://sloperama.com/advice/jobapp.html​ And there are more articles on that site that apply to your question.​

yes, pursue all 3 options, and see where it leads.