If you're reading this, there's a good chance you're a gamer. And if you're a gamer, that means you spend at least some of your time online. So why not put those skills to work and find an online job that suits your interests?
Whether you're looking for something to do in your spare time or want to make a career out of gaming, there are plenty of options out there for you. While we're a bit partial to video game journalism jobs here, there are other options out there that don't involve as much writing. Keep reading to learn more about the different types of online jobs for gamers and how to get started!
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Online video game tester
If you're looking for a job in the gaming industry, online video game tester might be the perfect fit. As a video game tester, you would be responsible for playing new games and identifying any glitches or problems. This is an important job, because it helps ensure that the games released to the public are of the highest quality possible.
If you're interested in becoming a video game tester, there are a few things you can do to get started. First, research the different companies that offer this type of work. There are many different companies out there, so make sure you find one that fits your interests and skills. Next, once you've found a company you want to work for, send them your resume and cover letter. Be sure to highlight any gaming experience or skills you have.
There are plenty of pitfalls in the online video game tester world. For starters, this is an easy gig to fall into scams and less-than-ideal opportunities. Make sure you research your potential employer thoroughly before signing anything. And never, EVER pay to start at a job; this is a sure sign you're dealing with a scammer.
Online game streamer (Twitch, YouTube, etc.)
If you're a gamer, there's a good chance you've seen people streaming games online. As a video game streamer, you would stream your gameplay live to the internet. This can be a fun and exciting way to share your love of gaming with the world!
First, make sure you have the necessary equipment. You'll need a good computer and microphone, as well as software that allows you to broadcast your gameplay. This can mean an extremely powerful gaming PC along with the right console and capture equipment.
Next, focus on creating content that is interesting and engaging. Online game streaming is as much about being an entertainer or having an entertaining personality as it is about anything. Play to your audience, interact with them, and do everything you can to get them to come back.
Finally, build up a following by promoting your channel on social media and other websites. By following these tips, you can create a successful stream that entertains and engages gamers everywhere!
Game developer
Creating and developing games can be incredibly rewarding, and it's a great way to put your gaming skills to work. It’s quite a bit different than being a game journalist, tester, or streamer, as there’s a lot of preparation and potentially schooling you’ll need to complete before your career can really get going.
There are many different avenues you can explore when it comes to game development and design. A lot of people start out working with existing indie teams on small projects. This is a great way to test the waters, see if the career path is a good fit. You can then branch out and try creating your own game experiments, or pursue one of the many jobs within game development—art, level design, marketing, community management, etc.
If you do enjoy game design, keep in mind there’s no such thing as “an ideas guy.” If you’ve ever thought that your game design ideas are amazing and just want someone to make your game, go ahead and put those delusions to rest. Ideas are everywhere. What really matters is the ability to implement and refine ideas. Nobody cares that you have a good idea, and nobody is going to pay you for those ideas. Instead, take those ideas and turn them into a game. That’s what will get you some attention.
Online game reviewer / video game journalist
Would you like to become an online game reviewer? This is the easiest path for many people, as it doesn't require any special equipment, just time, a love of gaming, and the ability to write. There are plenty of articles here on VGJobs about breaking into this field (and plenty of jobs you can apply to!), so head back to the blog and browse the content for plenty of tips and tricks to get started!
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Ready to start your game journalism career? Find a job today!