of the money a game makes. Most game developers and designers despise the publisher. Most people who wish to be game developers make their first game alone. These people are called lone wolves. A lone wolf does all of the jobs listed above on his own. Many people enjoy working alone, and continue to work alone, even after their first game is completed. Being a lone wolf isn’t for everybody. A majority of game developers work for companies (Gruber). Salaries vary from company to company in the computer game industry. Salaries depend on the size and successfulness of the company. According to a recent issue of Canadian Business magazine, experienced game programmers in the United States have a base salary that averages around $50,000 to $60,000 a year. However, some successful game developers can earn up to $150,000 a year (Baldwin). New game programmers and designers with little experience earn about $30,000 (Encarta). Game developers can also get extra money if a game sells well. Educational requirements vary greatly with each job and employer. Some employers require a college education in computer science, computer engineering, electrical engineering, computer-aided design, computer graphics, or art (D.O.T.). Most employers ask that their employees demonstrate knowledge of the skills they will use on the job. It is very possible for someone with no college education to get a good job in a computer game development company. Game developers will need excellent computer programming skills. A proficiency with programming languages like C and C++ is essential (D.O.T.). Algebra and geometry skills are a must for designing. Programmers also need to have a strong background in computers, math, and physics to be successful in programming 3-D design elements that give the game a realistic look (Computer Game Designer). A solid background in English and literature will help with the plot and the story line of the game. ...
