Video games are an incredibly popular form of entertainment, with millions of people around the world enjoying them on a daily basis. But have you ever stopped to wonder how much money the people behind these games make?
What Is a Video Game Designer?
A video game designer is someone who creates the concept, story, characters, and gameplay of a video game. They work with a team of programmers, artists, and sound designers to bring their vision to life.
How Much Do Video Game Designers Make?
The salary of a video game designer can vary greatly depending on a number of factors, such as their experience, the company they work for, and the location of the company.
According to Glassdoor, the average salary for a video game designer in the United States is $85,000 per year. However, this can range anywhere from $48,000 to $130,000 per year.
Experience
The more experience a video game designer has, the higher their salary is likely to be. Entry-level designers can expect to earn anywhere from $48,000 to $70,000 per year, while senior designers with 10 or more years of experience can earn upwards of $130,000 per year.
Company
The company a video game designer works for can also have a big impact on their salary. Larger, more established companies such as EA and Ubisoft typically pay their designers more than smaller, independent studios.
Location
The location of the company can also affect a video game designer's salary. For example, designers who work in major cities such as San Francisco or New York can expect to earn more than those who work in smaller cities or rural areas.
Education
While a degree is not always necessary to become a video game designer, having one can certainly help. Designers with a bachelor's degree in game design, computer science, or a related field may be able to command a higher salary than those without a degree.
Benefits
In addition to their salary, video game designers may also receive a number of benefits, such as health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off.
Job Outlook
The job outlook for video game designers is good, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting a 9% increase in employment between 2016 and 2026. However, competition for jobs can be fierce, as many people are interested in working in the video game industry.
Conclusion
In conclusion, video game designers can make a good living, with salaries ranging from $48,000 to $130,000 per year depending on factors such as experience, company, location, education, and benefits. While competition for jobs can be tough, the job outlook for video game designers is positive.
