Entering the game development industry is a widely cherished ambition, offering a unique blend of artistic and scientific innovation. At EGX 2023, XR Games’ talent acquisition manager, Andy Driver, provided insights on securing a first job in game development, emphasizing the challenging nature of the process and the importance of a comprehensive skill set.
Driver highlighted the non-linear path to employment in the industry, involving various stages from finding suitable roles to undergoing multiple application processes, interviews, and tests.
He underscored the competitive nature of the field, with a large number of applicants vying for limited positions, making feedback impractical for every candidate.
Key components for job applications include a well-crafted CV and portfolios tailored to specific roles such as artists, designers, and programmers. Driver stressed the importance of a CV reflecting both professional achievements and personal traits, making applicants appear more than just “development robots.”
Portfolios, especially for artists, should focus on showcasing actual game art, emphasizing quality over quantity. For designers and programmers, templated platforms can be used, with an emphasis on presenting playable games and visually appealing documentation. Driver recommended GitHub for hosting code samples.
Communication and interview skills were highlighted as crucial for success, demonstrating the ability to collaborate within a team, a vital aspect of game development.
The overall application package, consisting of a strong CV, portfolio, and communication skills, was emphasized as essential for securing a position, with no single component being sufficient on its own.
Driver concluded by sharing the ‘jobs funnel,’ illustrating the hiring process, which involves filtering applicants based on relevance, technical competence, and team fit.
The final decision in the recruitment process revolves around identifying the best fit among technically qualified candidates, underscoring the importance of presenting oneself as a real person during the interview stage.
