It's probably every gamer's dream to play video games for money. Making a career out of something you love doing is great and it's a great way to become a better person as well. But becoming a beta tester isn't exactly easy. Video game beta testing has always been a pretty tricky thing to do, at least correctly. Too many times people think they'll be able to get into the field of video game testing by starting off as a pro video gamer or learning how to be a designer. While this certainly does help, there are other things you should know before you get your start.
This article will help you in simpler ways than wasting hours trying to learn C++ or some such. Here are five simple tips you can use to get into the field of video game beta testing.
1. Make friends in the industry.
Instead of trying to do everything yourself, you should try and make friends with people who are already programmers or designers. It can be hard if you have idea where to start, but the best place to start would be with companies themselves. Smaller developers would be more willing to hear you out; don't head straight to Microsoft hoping to get the hook-up!
2. Get involved in other parts of the career.
I know I said earlier you didn't have to go through programming classes, but you should start doing something else. Game competitions are a great way to further your small career while making connections with local developers.
3. Professionalize your resume.
Make sure you remember you aren't going out for just any old job- you're aiming for a career! Most game testers get paid between $9-$15 an hour, but the pay isn't what's so great, it's being able to make money playing video games! Make sure you don't come off like a teenager though with your resume; be all business.
4. Understand your craft.
Make sure you realize exactly what it is you'll be doing as a game tester, and make sure you get across that you do to potential employers. Don't assume you'll be playing the coolest levels of the next Grand Theft Auto; more than likely you'll be performing tedious tasks repeatedly on a game you've never even heard of at first. Don't let it discourage you, you will eventually be able to play the latest greatest games!
5. Pick up a book.
So with all of this information you may feel like you've got it all figured out, but even this article only covers the tip of the iceberg. If you really want information, and ways to break into the industry- like tons of industry contacts and notifications on the latest game testing jobs in your area- then check out some of the resources available at
Get Paid to Play Games.
Good luck, young grasshopper!
