What is a Computer Game Tester?

A computer game tester is basically an individual who plays a game before it is released into the market. These people are needed to ensure that a particular game is in perfect shape when it lands into the hands of gamers.

There are also some computer game development firms hiring individuals to test computer games previously released in the market. These individuals allow such companies to improve the various aspects of their computer games.

Computer Game Tester Qualifications: Computer game testers are hired based on the requirements listed below.

1.) Computer gaming skills and experience. There are not a lot of specific formal qualifications for a person to become a computer game tester aside from substantial knowledge and experience related to the computer video game industry.

2.) Knowledge in computer applications. Computer game tester jobs do not require you to possess a computer degree. However, it would be a major plus to have background knowledge in programming and development skills for other applications such as spreadsheets and databases.

3.) Updated knowledge in the computer gaming industry. It is advantageous for interested individuals in acquiring a computer game tester job to have extensive knowledge on the different game titles in the video game market. This gives them the edge over other aspiring computer game testers. Such knowledge can be gained by attending various gaming conventions and staying updated through gaming magazines.

Tips for Getting a Computer Game Tester Job

There are a lot of things an individual can do before applying for a computer game tester job aside from satisfying the requirements mentioned above. The tips listed below can help you get the computer game tester job you want.

1.) Playing an assortment of different games before trying out to become a computer game tester will help you become a better computer game tester. Through this, you can develop the gaming skills needed in when assessing and evaluating the games that you need to test.

2.) Try applying for computer game tester jobs offered by companies providing free training sessions and seminars. Most skills required for perfectly becoming a game tester are developed on the job. Training programs on how to use a bug report software or test plan design may also be given by employers.

3.) Build your computer gaming experience and skills to become at par with professional computer game testers. As opposed to what most people think, being a computer game tester is not an easy job. Although you have the privilege of testing out games before they are released, testers are still bound by strict rules and test plans. It is possible that a game tester will be stuck trying out a single stage for hours and hours which, for an avid gamer, is not anywhere near the category of fun.

Most gamers use this job as a stepping stone to be professionally part of the gaming industry. Instead of going directly to become part of a team of game developers (which is very difficult to do), they pass through becoming a computer game tester and then slowly make their way up.

A computer game tester is usually paid by the hour. Rates depend on the company you are working for and the project you are handling. It may also depend on your level of expertise and years of experience in testing games. There are also some companies that give out bonuses or extra pay for every bug a computer game tester finds in the game.