Popular Technology Degrees

Will You Design a Best Selling Computer Game?

June 16, 2005
by Martin A. David
Technology Schools Columnist

Computer games were some of the first programs that appeared on the earliest personal computers. In fact, the spirit behind the personal computer revolution was one of play and adventure. That spirit continues and computer game design is still one of the largest areas in the computer industry.

Becoming a Video Game Designer

If you enjoy computer games and you love technology, a career in the development of game programs is for you. To start with, you have to learn about computer technology in general.

Once you have enrolled in a computer technology degree program you can choose a path specializing in the development of computer games. In addition, today almost every college has a variety of game programming courses within their technology studies departments.

Computer Game Sales are Climbing

Creating computer video games is fun, but it is also a very practical career choice. Old computer games are constantly being revised and enhanced and the market has an unending hunger for new computer games.

Once you learn the techniques needed to write good video game code, the only barrier to success is your own imagination. The market for online games, especially online multiplayer games, is endless.

The Ideas are Yours

Knowing how to make a computer game is part of the process. Many designers start as video game testers in order to learn as much as possible about the business. However, as a member of a game development team, you can contribute to the stream of ideas that bring forth the new computer games. For example, if you believe there is too much video game violence, you can help design and develop games of the kind you would like to see people playing. The future of this industry is wide open and it can be yours.

About the Author
Martin A. David consults as a Senior Technical Writer for a number of Silicon Valley firms. He is also a translator, specializing in Danish, French and Spanish literary works. He has written numerous feature articles for publications including the Los Angeles Times. He has also published a novel, and a non-fiction book in the area of dance. Martin earned his B.A. in Liberal Arts from Brooklyn College in his native New York. He currently chairs the Santa Clara Cultural Advisory Commission in Santa Clara, California.