Computer game developers are responsible for designing software for computer games to be put on the market. Working with the creative department, they must devise technological solutions that allow the vision of the game designers to be realized and then sold to gamers. Computer game developers usually specialize in one type of game, such as role-playing, but always require a high level of technical skill.
Salary
Gamasutra reported that the average salary for an individual working in the U.S. video game industry in 2009 was $75,573. Computer game developers, however, are at the top end of industry salaries with a 2009 average salary of $80,320. They may also accrue bonuses dependant upon the success of the game in question, but their basic salary is largely dependent upon experience.
Conditions
The computer game market in the United States is big business, with MSNBC reporting that in 2008 revenues for the industry exceeded $12.5 billion. While this means computer game developers achieve respectable salaries, it also entails a lot of pressure, both to remain at the forefront of technological development and to ensure games get to market on time. Leading up to a game's launch, developers will usually be working very long hours.
Employers
Most computer game developers work in the development studios of one of the large computer game corporations. Among the market leaders are Electronic Arts, Nintendo and Sony Polyphony Digital. They may also find work with independent production companies that either self-publish games (often on the Internet) or sell software to a larger producer.
Experience
Experience in the industry and a proven track record are the best way to achieve a high salary. AnimationArena.com reports that computer game developers in the $80,000-plus bracket usually have six or more years experience in the industry. For those in their first year, the average pay is $50,000 Staying up-to-date with the most cutting-edge technologies and being able to develop across different game platforms are also a bonus.
