Many people would like to think that video game testing is all fun and games, and the only qualification you’ll need is a passion to play. Although a passion for playing video and computer games is a must, there are other qualities that a person must have to become a game tester. Video and computer game testing is not just fun and games. Like any job, it requires dedication, hard work and some related skills, not just aptitude in playing video games. If you really are interested in becoming a video game tester, then read on.

To understand how to become a game tester you must first understand what a video game tester does. A video game tester is a person who tests and examines computer and video games to determine any possible errors, bugs or conflicts in the game. They are those persons that must ensure that the video or computer game meets the quality standards of the company. They check the computer or video games for the minutest mistakes like wrong spellings to major bugs like total game crash downs. They are the persons that are primarily responsible if a video or computer game is not user friendly enough, or if there are any bugs that still exist once the video or computer game is released. Sounds like a big responsibility right? Aside from the actual testing of the games, a game tester must also be able to create reports about the game errors and bugs and to recommend ways to improve the game or fix the error. Oftentimes, to be able to do this, a game tester must play a boring game over and over again, even if the game crashes over and over again. A command of the English language, both oral and written is also required.

To be a good game tester some background on programming is a must. After all, how can you work with the game producers and programmers if you don’t understand what they are talking about, right? You must also have basic computer knowledge including maneuvering your way into databases and spreadsheets. To pinpoint a particular problem with the video or computer game, you must be organized and patient, able to continue testing and playing the same game, may be even the same level or area, over and over again. Part of being a game tester is to be able to accept criticisms and mistakes, especially if the game comes out of the market and it is discovered that it still has flaws. Knowledge of the different types of computer games that are out in the market would also be desirable in a game tester.

As you can see, being a game tester is not all that it is glamorized to be. It requires dedication, skill and hard work. But then again, once you’ve gotten used to these responsibilities, being a game tester can be one of the best jobs for a video or computer game enthusiast. If you really are into video or computer games, then study a little about program so that you can break the video game industry and be more than just a video game tester.

• You Can Get Paid To Play Video Games