Overview of video games sector

In the following modules and units, the relevant aspects of videogame creation and the most relevant knowledge of the professional profiles for videogame development are developed. This project aims to generate a knowledge base for the creation of serious videogames related to the environment to offer a way of learning and raising awareness about its preservation.

The video game industry has seen significant growth both in Europe and globally. According to Newzoo’s Global Games Market Report, the global video game market was worth $159.3 billion in 2020, with Europe accounting for approximately $32.2 billion. This growth has been driven by several factors, including the rise of mobile gaming, the increasing popularity of eSports, and technological advancements such as virtual reality.

As the industry grows, so does the demand for a wide range of professionals. Here are some of the most in-demand roles in the video game industry: Game Developers, Game Designers, Artists, Testers and Sound Designers.

But there are more professionals who are needed. A short list of key roles:

• ●  Game Designers: They are responsible for creating the concepts, rules, and structure of a game. They work on everything from the game’s story and characters to its mechanics and level design.
• ●  Game Developers/Programmers: These are the professionals who write the code that makes the game run. They may specialize in a specific area, such as graphics, artificial intelligence, physics, or network programming.
• ●  Game Artists: They create the visual elements of a game, including characters, environments, and user interface elements. This role can be further divided into several specialties, including concept art, 3D modeling, texture art, and animation.
• ●  Technical Artists: They serve as a bridge between the artists and programmers working on a game, helping to ensure the art assets can be easily integrated into the game without sacrificing the artistic vision.
• ●  Sound Designers/Audio Engineers: They are responsible for everything you hear in a game, from the music to the sound effects. This role requires both technical skills and a good ear for music and sound.
• ●  Game Testers/QA Testers: They play games in development to find and document any bugs or issues. This role requires a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of games.
• • Level Designers: They are responsible for creating the stages or levels of a game, including the layout of the environment, the placement of objects, and the difficulty progression.
  • ●  Game Writers/Narrative Designers: They create the plot, dialogue, and lore of a game. They work closely with game designers to ensure that the story integrates well with the gameplay.
  • ●  Game Producers: They oversee the development of a game, managing everything from the budget and schedule to the coordination between different teams.
  • ●  Game Animators: They bring characters and environments to life with movement. This can range from the broad movements of a character to subtle animations in the environment.
  • ●  Game User Experience (UX) Designers: They focus on the player’s experience, ensuring the game is intuitive and enjoyable to play. They may conduct playtests and user research to gather feedback on the game.
  • ●  Localization Specialists: They adapt a game for different regions, translating text, adjusting cultural references, and sometimes even modifying game content to better suit different audiences.
  • ●  Community Managers: They manage the relationship between the game developers and the players. They may run social media accounts, respond to player feedback, and organize events.6.1 The importance of training for the video game sector

    This section provides an overview of the professional profiles in the sector and the relevance of their training, both in hard and soft skills.

    In terms of skills, hard skills like programming (especially languages like C++ and Python), proficiency with game development tools (like Unity or Unreal Engine) and understanding of computer graphics are often required. For artists, skills in programs like Photoshop, Maya, or Blender are important.

    Soft skills are also crucial in the video game industry. These include problem-solving skills, creativity, teamwork, and communication skills. Given the collaborative nature of game development, being able to work well in a team is particularly important. Additionally, a passion for video games and an understanding of what makes a game enjoyable are often seen as valuable qualities in this industry.

    In addition to the hard and soft skills mentioned, there are other aspects of training that are vital in the video game industry.

  • Continuous training: Given the rapid evolution of technology and trends in the gaming industry, it is essential for professionals to stay up-to-date with the latest tools, techniques, and platforms. This may involve participation in workshops, online courses, webinars, and conferences.

    Specialization: Although having a wide range of skills is helpful, specialization in a specific area is very valuable. For example, a programmer may specialize in artificial intelligence, an artist may focus on 3D modeling, and a game designer may specialize in creating innovative game mechanics.

    Business and marketing background: Many video game developers aspire to create their own studio. In this case, in addition to technical and creative skills, it is important to have a basic understanding of how to run a business, including marketing, finance, and project management.

    Practice: Theoretical training is important, but practice is essential. Creating your own projects, either individually or as a team, is a great way to gain hands-on experience, build a portfolio, and demonstrate skills to potential employers.

    Networking: The video game industry is very collaborative, and many opportunities can arise from connecting with other professionals in the industry. Attending industry events, participating in online forums, and collaborating on projects can help build a valuable network.