Who wouldn't love to design their own video game? The title of Game Designer is a much sought after position in the video game industry. Breaking into this industry is incredibly difficult as more and more people become interested in this career. Sadly, just playing games isn't enough to get your foot in the door. If you have decided you want to become a video game designer, please read on for some insights and tips on how to land your dream job and how to become a game designer!

So, you want to become a video game designer, but where do you start? Chances are you already have a love for games and play them regularly, which is an excellent place to begin. As with any career, you will need to stand out from the masses of potential employees, especially when seeking a coveted position such as game designer. Education and determination are key. A well-rounded education will help the aspiring game designer immensely. It is imperative to be able to communicate effectively, understand how people interact in the world with both each other and their surroundings, and to use this information to visualize and create a virtual world which game players will enjoy. Game design programs are gaining recognition in the field and will provide the student with technical skills and game design theory. Check out your local art institute or design schools such as Full Sail University to see if their programs are right for you. Any four year degree will provide the prospective game designer with the knowledge and experience to be successful - just follow your passions and let them inspire you! Read on to learn how to become a game designer.

In order to be successful in any career, you will need to understand the basics. A game designer will need to know how games work and what makes them successful. The only way to gain this knowledge is to play a lot of games. Keep a journal where you note what you enjoyed or did not enjoy about a game. Write down ways to improve upon certain aspects of a game. Think of a good storyline for your own game and write down your ideas for implementing points, rewards, etc. These are all key areas which game designers need to focus and it will be beneficial to practice thinking along these lines.

Now that you have your ideas in writing, put them into action! Use do-it-yourself game programs like Metaplace to bring your ideas to life. This is an excellent way to learn the basics of both game design and implementation of your ideas. It is important to build a strong portfolio as education alone will not suffice; employers want to see your ideas and creativity in the games that you design.

Its not just about what you know in the game business, its also about who you know. It is important to put yourself out there and network with those who are already in the game business. After you have built a strong portfolio demonstrating your creativity, you will need to start building relationships with potential employers. Create a business card and attend game conferences. Let people know you are looking for a career in game design and have been working on your portfolio. Befriend others who have the same passion for games as you! Become active in the online gaming community, read forums, create a blog and use social networking sites to your advantage. Your new-found acquaintances in the video game industry will be able to provide references and recommendations for you when you start your job search.

Put in an application at all game studios and include your portfolio examples. Game Designer is a coveted position and there will always be a number of applicants. It may be most helpful to start at a lower position and work your way up through the company. Several positions in Customer Service or Quality Assurance could lead to bigger and better things and will allow you the chance to gain experience or a possible apprenticeship.

It is difficult to break into the video game industry. Do not give up! Keep working on your portfolio, keep networking, and keep educating yourself on the game industry. Read any and all books you can find on game design theory and use what you learn to advance.