How to become a game developer after 12th [Step-by-Step guide]
Gaming has become a massive industry in recent years, and many students are considering game development as a career option. If you're a high school student who has a passion for gaming and wants to become a game developer after 12th, this article will guide you on how to pursue this career path.
Step 1: Choose a Relevant Degree Course
After completing 12th, the first step to becoming a game developer is to pursue a relevant degree course. There are various degree courses that you can choose from, such as computer science, game design, or game development. These degree courses will help you develop the essential skills required to design and develop games. The most popular options in India are Bachelor of Science in Gaming, Bachelor of Technology in Game Design and Development, Diploma in Game Design and Development, Master of Science in Game Development, and Master of Technology in Game Design and Development.
Step 2: Learn Programming Languages
To become a game developer, you need to have a strong foundation in programming languages. You should be proficient in languages such as C++, C#, Java, and Python. These programming languages are used in game development, and you must have a good understanding of these languages to create games.
Step 3: Develop Your Skills
To become a successful game developer, you need to develop a range of skills that include coding, designing, and testing games. You should also be proficient in graphics and animation, as these skills are essential in creating an immersive gaming experience.
Step 4: Get Experience
To stand out from other game developers, you should gain experience in the gaming industry. You can start by creating your games or working on a team project. You can also look for internships or part-time work in gaming companies to gain real-world experience in game development.
Step 5: Build Your Portfolio
Having a strong portfolio is crucial in the gaming industry. You should create a portfolio that showcases your skills, experience, and creativity in game development. You can include projects you've worked on, games you've developed, or any other relevant work that showcases your skills. These popular platforms can help you: GitHub, ArtStation, Itch.io, Behance, and LinkedIn.
Step 6: Keep Learning and Improving
Game development is a constantly evolving field, and you must keep up with the latest trends and technologies. Attend workshops, conferences, and training programs to keep your skills and knowledge up to date. In India, there are several game jams and hackathons, such as the Global Game Jam, the NASSCOM Game Developers Conference Game Jam, and the Unity Game Jam.
You should also be willing to learn new programming languages, game engines, and development tools as they emerge.
Step 7: Network
Networking is an essential aspect of the gaming industry. Attend gaming events, meet other game developers, and build connections with professionals in the industry. This will help you gain valuable insights, learn about new opportunities, and build relationships that can help you advance your career. For example, the Indian Gaming Developers Network (IGDN) is a community of game developers in India that provides a platform for networking, collaboration, and learning.
In conclusion, becoming a game developer after 12th in India requires a lot of hard work, dedication, and creativity. Follow these steps, and with the right mindset and approach, you can turn your passion for gaming into a fulfilling career.
