Games QA Software Testers work with the developers and they look after the software testing process. Their role is to discover and document the software defects within the game. You will not be just playing games all day!
The course has been created by the games industry for the games industry. It gives the student a blend of both technical teaching and learning infrastructure that is relevant.
The course is a mixture of home-based learning and the use of a remote intranet system that allows you to interact with lectures, course tutors and fellow students. You will need a basic computing knowledge, persistence, patience,but most importantly you need a passion and commitment for video games.
The course is a popular way to gain entry into the video games industry. In the course you will learn how a QA Tester works with the designers and developers of a game to discover and document errors within the game. From the start you will develop an understanding of the main gaming mechanics which will enable you to learn how games are tested on every level, the reporting system that lists the bug errors and learn the quality control that games companies use. After finishing the course the student will have a working portfolio to show potential new employers.
Games QA Tester Salary and Conditions
- Starting salary of £12,000 to £18,000, with a typical salary at senior level with several years of experience of £25,000 to £30,000 (salary depends on company type, size and location of employer).
- Some companies offer bonuses or a profit-sharing scheme.
- Working hours are usually flexible, with many animators starting later than 9am. However, working hours are generally long and animators often work a 40-hour week or more.
- In order to try to meet games completion deadlines, games tester teams may need to work a 60 to 80-hour week, including work over the weekends.
- The role is typically office, studio or production house based, although there are some freelancers working from home.
- QA Software testers tend to work in a team environment. In order to meet the complex nature of contemporary games, the size of teams can reach almost 200 individuals. It is not uncommon for groups and individual team members to be located remotely, both in the UK and other parts of the world.
*(Source – National Career Service)
