Career Outlook

The job growth for animators and multimedia artists (which includes video game designers) was projected to grow 8% between 2016 and 2028 by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The higher demand for more realistic digital effects in the games themselves has driven this demand, as well as the move toward new consoles and games on mobile devices and computers. The tendency of video game companies to hire video game designers from overseas is often based on the fact that those design professionals are willing to work for less money, which means more competition for video game designers based in the U.S.

Between 2019 and 2029, the job outlook slipped slightly to 4%, which is around the average for all occupations. This projected growth is, again, due to the increased demand for visual effects and animation in movies, television, and games.

Sales for video games were higher than $10 billion in 2009, which involved the employment of more than 32,000 game design professionals in 34 states. Because the development of video games, whether on mobile devices or computers, is so complex, it requires many professionals with skills in a variety of areas collaborate in the development—from preproduction to postproduction. Hopefully, as entertainment continues to be a large industry, video game designers will have excellent job prospects for years to come.

Advancing From Here

Depending on your skills at work, you may be able to advance up the career ladder without more education. Communication skills are one of the most important to have, as you’ll need to be able to communicate clearly orally and in writing. This is how you get your ideas across. If you are skilled as a game programmer, you may be promoted to senior programming positions. Time management skills are vital to a change in your job title. Basic knowledge in game development and building websites can also help.

Another way to advance is to earn a college degree in artificial intelligence or management. You could even complete business and management training and open your own studio.