Video game technology is so hot that, as you read this, its power is holding millions of people captive in front of their screens. It's a wonder that YOU'RE not playing. Will the power of games spill over into training, education, and more? It already is. You can help push it further. The military and law enforcement now use large-scale video game simulations to train professional reflexes and split-second judgment calls. Meanwhile on the Web, the "America's Army" video game can be downloaded free and has proven a useful tool for recruitment.
The $10 billion dollar domestic market in video game hardware and software keeps growing. It has generated an almost around-the-clock race to get the next big game title out the door on competing platforms such as PlayStation 2 and Xbox. Even cell phones are starting to get their share of interesting games.
Over 300 schools now offer courses to help prepare you for video game development. Breaking in is extremely competitive. Here are some roles you can shoot for:
QA Analyst
Often called a "tester," this is how many current development pros got their foot in the door. It's not a high-paying job. QA analysts typically test every character, weapon, object, and move in every conceivable situation, and test again as the game gets revised. Because the process is so important, QA analyst positions might make up to a third of a game developer's payroll as a game nears completion.
Artist
Game art is a fascinating opportunity to stretch your character and environmental design skills. Good training in graphic design prepares you to give a unique look and feel to different levels and worlds.
Animator
Sold undergraduate or graduate training in animation will guide you as you take concepts from artists and build 3D wireframe characters.
Programmer
Use training in computer information sciences, especially languages such as C++, to accomplish special effects and unique video graphics events using a variety of computer software and other media applications.
Level Designer
Brainstorm each and every possible move at each and every point, creating a detailed level map pushing the limits of interactive technology. The best level designers are also programmers.
Producer
Manage the team, guide the quality of deliverables, hit deadlines on budget. It's not easy. You'll be aided by associate and assistant producers.
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About the Author
Alan Drummer is a writer and video producer based in Burlingame, California. His features have appeared on the History Channel and in publications such as Better Homes and Gardens, the Los Angeles Times and San Francisco Magazine. Trained as an advertising copywriter, his commercials for kids won some of the industry's top awards. He has a degree in English Literature from Harvard. 
