Is Game Development a Good Career? | University at Albany

October 15, 2025

A game developer works on a new game’s visual design at his desk.

In the world of video games, a heroic plumber and speedy hedgehog represent more than digital characters. They are multibillion-dollar intellectual properties that have enjoyed decades of sustained relevance, countless licensing deals and box office success.

Individuals dreaming of creating the next big video game or bringing imaginative worlds to life have probably asked themselves: Is game development a good career? The answer depends on interests, goals and willingness to learn. Game development blends technology, art and storytelling into a dynamic industry.

Understanding the role of video game developers, their earning potential and educational requirements helps candidates decide for themselves whether game development is a good career choice.

What Does a Game Developer Do?

Game developers turn creative ideas into interactive experiences that showcase visual artistry, musical components, storytelling and intuitive control mechanics.

Typically, developers specialize areas such as gameplay programming, engine development or graphics optimization, while collaborating with artists, writers, sound engineers and producers to achieve the creative director’s overarching vision. However, some game developers may wear many hats, switching between various tasks.

Technical expertise, experience, studio size and project type — for example, whether the game is designed for mobile, console or PC — influence a game developer’s role.

Typical responsibilities include the following:

Designing, coding and testing gameplay mechanics
Debugging and troubleshooting technical issues
Collaborating with artists and designers to integrate graphics, audio and story elements
Optimizing games for performance across devices and platforms
Updating and patching games after release
Staying current with industry trends, tools and programming languages

Game developers act as both problem-solvers and innovators. They not only build functioning software but also ensure that it provides a seamless, immersive experience for players.

How to Become a Game Developer

For those interested in pursuing this career path, the next step is understanding how to qualify for a role. Although some game developers are self-taught, most successful candidates build their skills through formal education and hands-on experience.

Earn a Degree

Degrees in game design and development, computer science or software development are often required for game developer roles. These degrees provide strong foundations in coding, algorithms and project management. Coursework typically includes training in widely used programming languages such as C++, C# and Python, along with experience in industry-standard frameworks such as Unity and Unreal Engine. Specialized game development programs often also add classes in storytelling, level design and animation.

Although the gaming software industry values practical experience, a degree can help developers stand out in the field and land coveted jobs.

Gain Experience and Build a Portfolio

Internships, freelance projects or open-source contributions can help candidates get their foot in the door. Employers also look for evidence of ability, so showcasing skills through playable demonstrations, modifications or independently developed games is valuable.

Stay Current With Industry Tools

The gaming industry evolves quickly, so staying up to date on engines, virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) tools, and emerging technologies is critical. When an innovative way to play emerges, most studios compete to see who can be first to market with the new experience.

Network With Other Developers

Joining online forums, attending conferences or connecting with peers can open doors to mentorship opportunities and job leads. To build visibility and credibility, many developers also showcase projects on platforms such as GitHub or Itch.io.

Game Developer Salary and Job Outlook

For many considering the field, one of the biggest questions isn’t just whether game development is a good career, but whether it offers competitive pay and long-term stability.

Game Developer Salary

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for software developers, including game developers, was $133,080 as of May 2024. Salaries can vary significantly based on factors such as education, experience, region, and the size and type of employer.

Game Developer Job Outlook

The first commercially successful video game was released in 1972. Since then, video games have consistently grown in cultural relevance, popularity, and the variety of platforms consumers can play them on. Market research underscores the industry’s momentum. Grand View Research reported that the video game market value was $298.9 billion in 2024 and is projected to more than double by 2030.

The BLS estimates that roles for software developers, including game developers, will grow 18% from 2023 to 2033 — much faster than the 4% average growth rate for all occupations.

This industry’s consistent growth and ability to adapt to new technologies are among the reasons that many consider game development to be a good career.

Turn Your Passion for Gaming Into a Career

Game development is a good career if you’re passionate about problem-solving, enjoy collaboration and want to contribute to an industry that grows year after year. It requires dedication, advanced technical skills and a willingness to keep learning, but the rewards often make the journey worthwhile.

For aspiring professionals, education is an important next step. The University at Albany’s Bachelor of Science in Game Design and Development program, offered online and on campus, provides training in coding, storytelling, animation and game design fundamentals. With career-oriented coursework, students can build the skills and portfolio needed to qualify for developer roles.

Learn more about UAlbany’s program and how it can support your goal of becoming a game developer.