With the growth of the video game industry, the demand for video game testers has increased significantly. Video game testing involves playing games before they are released to the general public to identify any issues or bugs that need to be addressed by developers. While this was previously a field restricted to experienced gamers and industry professionals, more and more game developers are looking to hire younger testers, including 13 year olds. Becoming a video game tester can be an exciting opportunity for young gamers, but it also requires a certain level of skill and dedication. In this article, we’ll explore what it truly means to be a video game tester for 13 year olds and how they can get involved in this industry.
To become a video game tester for 13 year olds, there are several qualifications that you need to have. While these qualifications may vary depending on the company, they generally include:
- A passion for gaming and a deep understanding of various video game genres
- Attention to detail and a commitment to finding and reporting bugs and glitches
- Strong communication skills to provide clear and detailed feedback to developers
- Patient and persistent approach to performing repetitive tasks
- Understanding of basic computer skills including word processing and spreadsheet software
Additionally, many game development companies require testers to be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or equivalent. However, some companies are willing to hire younger testers, including 13 year olds, as long as they can prove their skills and passion for the job. There are also several websites and platforms that are specifically designed for young gamers to get involved in video game testing. These websites provide opportunities for young gamers to test new games and provide feedback to developers while earning rewards or even cash. One such website is XYR Gaming, which offers a platform for teenage gamers to discuss and test video games as well as provide feedback to developers.
What qualifications do you need to be a video game tester?
To be a video game tester, you don’t necessarily need formal qualifications, like a degree. However, many employers will require you to have certain skills or experience. Here are some qualifications that might help you get a job as a video game tester:
- Strong understanding of video games and the industry
- Good analytical and problem-solving skills
- Excellent communication and teamwork skills
- Capability to follow a test plan and report bugs effectively
- Experience in software testing and quality assurance (QA) is a plus
Moreover, some websites like Glassdoor and Indeed can help you find job opportunities as a video game tester in the industry. You can also check products like “Game Tester Guide,” which provides valuable insights on how to get hired as a video game tester and get paid to play games.
The Process Of Testing A Video Game
Once a video game tester is hired, they will undergo a training process before they are given any games to test. The process of testing a video game generally involves several steps. These steps may vary depending on the company or game being tested, but in general, they include:
Installation
The tester installs the game and any necessary software onto their testing device.
Gameplay
The tester plays through the game multiple times to identify bugs, glitches, or issues with gameplay mechanics.
Bug Reporting
The tester reports any issues they find to the development team, usually through a bug tracking system.
Re-Testing
Once bugs have been fixed, the tester plays through the game again to ensure that the issue has been resolved.
Feedback
The tester provides feedback to the development team on their overall experience with the game and suggestions for improvement.
It’s important for testers to work closely with the development team and other testers to ensure that all bugs are identified and addressed before the game is released to the public. In addition to testing the game itself, testers may also be responsible for testing any additional content, such as downloadable content (DLC) or updates. Some companies also require testers to sign non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) to ensure that the game’s content and features are kept confidential before release.
What is the first phase of game testing?
The first phase of game testing is typically known as the alpha phase. During this phase, the game is in an initial playable state, and the focus is on finding and resolving major bugs or issues. The primary goal is to make sure the core gameplay mechanics and features are working correctly.
Some common activities associated with alpha testing include:
- Basic gameplay testing
- Testing of game mechanics and features
- Bug testing and reporting
- Debugging and troubleshooting
Alpha testing is crucial in preventing major issues and ensuring a smooth game launch. It is often conducted by a small group of testers, either internally or through a closed beta program.
If you’re interested in game development, there are many online resources where you can learn more about game testing and the overall development process. Some popular websites include Gamasutra and GameDev.net.
Potential Drawbacks of Being a Video Game Tester
While many 13 year olds may be excited at the prospect of getting paid to play video games, it’s important to note that there are some potential drawbacks to the job. These include:
- Long hours – During crunch time, testers may be required to work long hours, including weekends and holidays
- Repetitive tasks – Testing a game can be a repetitive process, involving playing through the same levels multiple times to identify and reproduce bugs
- Entry-level pay – While the pay is generally above minimum wage, game tester salaries are usually in the bottom 10% of the industry
- No creative control – As a tester, you won’t have a say in the creative decisions that go into making the game
- Contract work – Many video game testing jobs are contract-based and may not offer job security or benefits
It’s important for 13 year olds to carefully consider these potential drawbacks before pursuing a career in video game testing. However, for those who are passionate about gaming and willing to put in the time and effort, video game testing can be a rewarding and exciting career path with potential for growth and advancement in the industry.
