Games people play!

Computer and video games are fast becoming a popular entertainment choice in the digital era, thereby giving rise to a host of opportunities.

AN industry that offers a bright future if you have the yen for it! Intellectually stimulating and engaging, it promises good fortune and success to the deserving. For those who've loved to play games and have never ceased to be fascinated by them, the field is fertile with opportunity. 3D, adventure, simulation and sports are some of the genres of high quality games being developed today.

Qualifications

To get a foothold in this industry, you need to have a BE/B.Tech degree in computer science, with exposure to game programming.

The best way to start is to write a couple of games of your own. You also need to master C, C++, Visual C++, Assembly level programming, Windows API Programming, Java Script, ASP, and VP Script.Knowledge and experience in Microsoft DirectX, computer architecture, artificial intelligence, software engineering, computer graphics, data structures, communication networks and Open GL is required. Knowledge of design software like Director, Photoshop, 3D Studio Max, Maya, Flash, Illustrator and Lightwave is also essential.

Slots in the industry Programmers

The industry is looking for specialist programmers. Therefore, you need to specialise in a particular area of programming, preferably one that interests you the most.

Lead programmers are experienced professionals who have exposure to all types and levels in game programming. However proficiency in one area is necessary.

Lead programmers provide solutions to complicated coding, and interact with the design and animation teams on a regular basis. A lead programmer's job also includes assigning tasks to different teams and suggesting the technology that should be used. As a manager, a lead programmer should have good people skills. Gameplay programmers work in teams to implement new game play features.

Writing and maintaining code and combining logic and creativity with state-of-the-art technology is their core function.The game engine is designed and created by the Engine programmer. The Tools programmer writes the scripting tools and plug-ins. The Networking programmer helps in setting up the server and client systems, takes care of security, protocols and database management. AI (Artificial Intelligence) Programmers study the algorithms of games, and hence need to be fluent in the concepts of artificial intelligence.

The Audio programmer provides the sound files and music required for a game. They need to have a thorough knowledge of sound formats in order to implement them.

Sound effects can be taken from sample CDs or through recording. Audio programmers take the help of Game musicians for sound recording, in which case sounds need to be suitably edited.

Freshers in this field start as entry-level programmers. Their contributions are small, however they learn the ropes by working with experts.

Artists

The Art director works in conjunction with other teams to translate their ideas into reality. He needs to have an exceptionally high artistic talent coupled with good people management skills to head the team.

A Lead artist is responsible for producing and implementing graphic design for games. A constant drive for merging top quality graphics with a highly effective workflow is essential. A lead artist is also responsible for coaching and training other artists, and hence requires good communication skills.

The Special effects artist is both a programmer and an artist who provides the special effects in a game. Knowledge of 2D technology and 3D graphics is essential. 3D modelers create the inanimate objects and characters in a game. The Conceptual artist does the sketching and the visualisation. Layout artists take care of placing of structures, objects, and characters in the game levels.

Animators

The Animation director must have thorough knowledge and experience in animation tools and techniques. He provides the overall direction to teams. He also helps in fixing problems, and provides advice whenever needed. Animators create 2D and 3D graphics for the programmers and need to be fluent in animation techniques.

Designers

Game designers provide the concept, and monitor all the other processes that fall under the purview of design. Game producers are either experienced programmers or quality assurance experts who manage teams, and set targets and deadlines for them.

Making a mark

To find a place in this industry, you need to first prove yourself. Creating a game of your own is the best way to start. This will give prospective employers a chance to sample your work. So, if you have an idea, you need to give it a definite shape.

Put it down on paper and get the design in place before you flesh it out through programming. The next step is to create a design document that describes the look and feel of the interface and sequence.

This is a written documentation of what your game will do, the storyline, and the exact design requirements. A typical design document normally contains the introduction to the game, the cast of characters, game selection sequence, game play, game levels, milestones; art, sound and music and artificial intelligence specifications.

Scenes and ambience needs to be set for each sequence. You can also give a graphic description of the flow of control along with suitable descriptions whenever necessary.You need to create a game that captures the attention of the user and holds it to the end. Attempt to create games that are stimulating and largely depend on user decisions.

Soft skills

You need to be passionate about your work. You should also be able to work in a team. A high degree of resilience is required as the job can be tough and demanding, with stiff deadlines and long working hours.

Computer and video games are fast becoming the most popular entertainment choice in the digital era. In India, the industry is still in its nascent stage. However overseas opportunities for the right talent are available in plenty.

ARCHANA JAYAKAR

archana.hyd@careercommunity.co.in