Become Software Developer/ Video Game Programmer

[SeraphsSati]

This is in addition to my other thread on Intel.

I was thinking Software Development but the outlook is not good for programmers.

Video Games will always be there, but what classes in college would you take for that?

 

[Zim Hosein]

Underwater basket weaving

 

[yllus]

Focus on the theoretical and practical aspects of 3D graphics design. Meaning a whole lot of math (algebra in particular).

By the way, you think video game programming is a safer field than software development - by which I take it you mean software engineering? *disbelieving laugh*

 

[Ameesh]

Originally posted by: SeraphsSati
This is in addition to my other thread on Intel.

I was thinking Software Development but the outlook is not good for programmers.

Video Games will always be there, but what classes in college would you take for that?

i would suggest going to a school that has a video game program like digipen

 

[Ameesh]

Originally posted by: yllus
Focus on the theoretical and practical aspects of 3D graphics design. Meaning a whole lot of math (algebra in particular).

By the way, you think video game programming is a safer field than software development - by which I take it you mean software engineering? *disbelieving laugh*

there is no point trying to convince them of that, they are basing a lot of there opinions on heresay and supposition which is hard to combat with facts with certain types of people.

 

[DaveSimmons]

The US games industry offers long hours (sometimes insanely long), low pay, and an uncertain future since game studios and publishers / distributors are often managed by people without much business sense.

Also, as a game programmer it might be years before you actually do any game design rather than program design to make the tools and engine for the artists, scripters / level designers, and the game designer.

So, don't do it for job security or thinking you'll get to design games as soon as you're hired.

You might visit www.gamasutra.com and do some reading. If you're still set on game programming, be sure your classes include 3D graphics, AI, and a solid math background.

 

[beer]

I'd probably agree with Dave. There just doesn't appear to be much money in video games thanks partially to rampant piracy. A copy of MS Office sells for $400 and corporations pay it without asking questions, while the latest games cost $50 and people complain.

 

[Nocturnal]

Originally posted by: Elemental007
I'd probably agree with Dave. There just doesn't appear to be much money in video games thanks partially to rampant piracy. A copy of MS Office sells for $400 and corporations pay it without asking questions, while the latest games cost $50 and people complain.

Well a game can only keep your occupied for so long. MS Office helps for a lifetime. People are constantly using it, they don't get tired of it because they're using it for a job, probably. Where as a game is made to play, beat it, and then eventually forget about it.