Do you know you can turn your passion for gaming into a career? Or perhaps you’re just looking for a flexible work-from-home job that allows you to play games all day? Whatever your motivation may be, becoming a game tester from home can be a great way to get your foot in the door of the gaming industry. Game testing involves playing video games and providing feedback to the developers on the game’s functionality, user experience, and overall quality.
In this blog, we will help by exploring how you can become a remote game tester, plus the skills, tools, and best practices you will need to succeed. We will also discuss how and where to find opportunities as a game tester. It doesn’t matter if you are just a seasoned gamer or just starting out, this guide will help you get started on the path to becoming a professional game tester from the comfort of your own home.
Requirements to Become a Game Tester from Home?
To become a great game tester from home, there are several requirements you need to take into consideration. This will help you get to prepare and give you a glimpse of what you need to become a successful game tester.
1. Knowledge of Video Games
Having a strong knowledge of video games is very important if you want to be a sort-after remote game tester. As a game tester, you will be responsible for playing and testing games for issues, including bugs, glitches, and other problems that could impact gameplay. To do this effectively, you need to have an in-depth understanding of video games and how they work.
This knowledge should include a good understanding of video game genres, game mechanics, and basic game design principles. You should be familiar with different gaming platforms, such as consoles, PCs, and mobile devices, and understand the differences in gameplay and controls between them.
Furthermore, you should also be familiar with the video game development process, including the different stages of development, and the roles and responsibilities of the various team members. This knowledge can help you work better with the development team and communicate effectively with them about any issues you find during testing. It will also help you provide valuable feedback to the development team to improve the game’s overall quality.
2. Good Communication Skills
As a game tester who will be working from home, it is essential that you know how to communicate effectively with the game development team about any issues or bugs you find during testing. This means that you are often the first line of defense against bugs and issues that could impact the game’s quality, so it’s important to communicate any problems clearly and in a timely manner.
Communicating effectively involves being able to articulate your thoughts clearly and concisely, both in writing and verbally. You will need to provide detailed and accurate reports about any bugs or issues you find during testing, including steps to reproduce the issue and the severity of the problem. It’s also important to be able to communicate diplomatically and respectfully, even when reporting negative feedback or criticism. The development team may have put a lot of time and effort into creating the game, and it’s important to provide feedback that is constructive and helpful rather than hurtful.
In addition to communicating with the development team, you may also need to communicate with other testers or project managers, so it’s important to be able to work well in a team and be open to feedback and suggestions.
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3. Attention to Detail
Attention to detail is a critical requirement for a game tester from home. As a game tester, you will need to pay close attention to every aspect of the game, including graphics, sound, controls, and gameplay mechanics, to identify any bugs, glitches, or other issues that could impact the game’s quality. To have excellent attention to detail, you will need to be highly observant and methodical in your approach to testing. You will need to play the game multiple times, paying close attention to every detail and looking for any anomalies or inconsistencies that could indicate a problem.
You will also need to be patient and persistent in your testing, as some issues may not be immediately apparent and may require repeated testing to identify. This can involve performing the same actions or sequences multiple times, testing different characters or game modes, and playing the game under different conditions to identify any issues that may arise.
Good attention to detail is essential for a game tester because it ensures that every aspect of the game is thoroughly tested, leading to a better overall gaming experience for players. By identifying and reporting any issues that you find, you can help the development team make necessary improvements and deliver a higher-quality game.
4. Ability to Follow Instructions
As a game tester, you will be given specific instructions by the development team on what to test, how to test, and how to report any issues you find. To effectively follow instructions, you should be able to understand and interpret technical documentation, such as testing plans and bug reports. You should also be able to work independently, follow testing protocols, and accurately report your findings.
In addition to following instructions, it’s also important to be able to ask questions and seek clarification when necessary. If you are unsure about something, it’s better to ask for clarification than to assume and potentially miss an important issue or misunderstanding. This ensures that the game is tested thoroughly and accurately and that all issues are reported in a clear and concise manner. By following the development team’s instructions, you can ensure that the game is tested consistently and thoroughly, leading to a higher quality game for players.
5. Availability and Flexibility
Being able to work independently is an important requirement for a game tester from home. As a game tester, you will be responsible for testing the game on your own, without direct supervision or guidance from the development team. You will need to manage your time effectively and prioritize your testing tasks to ensure that you can test the game thoroughly within the allotted time.
To work independently, you should be self-motivated and organized, able to set goals and deadlines for yourself and stick to them. You should also be able to manage your workload effectively, balancing testing tasks with other responsibilities and tasks.
Good time management skills are critical for a game tester, as you will need to be able to work efficiently and prioritize your testing tasks to ensure that you can test the game thoroughly within the allotted time. You should be able to identify critical issues and focus on testing those first, while also ensuring that all aspects of the game are tested.
6. Access to A Computer and Reliable Internet Connection
Access to a computer and a reliable internet connection is a critical requirement for a game tester from home. As a game tester, you will be required to test the game on your computer, using the required hardware and software specified by the development team.
Your computer should meet the minimum system requirements specified by the game developer, including the operating system, processor, RAM, and graphics card. You should also have the necessary software and tools, such as the game itself, testing tools, and bug-tracking software.
In addition to having the necessary hardware and software, you should also have a reliable internet connection. This is important because you will need to communicate with the development team regularly, download and install updates, and access online resources related to the game. Furthermore, a reliable internet connection is also necessary for conducting online multiplayer testing, where you will be testing the game with other players from around the world. A slow or unreliable internet connection can negatively impact your ability to test the game effectively and report issues accurately.
7. Education and Training
While a degree or specific certification is not always required to become a game tester, having relevant education and training can help you stand out from other candidates and increase your chances of getting hired.
One common educational path for game testers is to obtain a degree in a field related to game development, such as computer science, game design, or software engineering. This provides a strong foundation in programming, game design, and project management, which can be helpful in understanding the technical aspects of game development and the processes involved in creating a game.
Another way to gain relevant education and training is to attend game testing courses or workshops. These courses can provide hands-on training in game testing techniques and tools, as well as an understanding of the game development process.
In addition to formal education and training, it’s also important to have a passion for gaming and an understanding of the gaming industry. This can include playing a wide range of games and understanding the different genres, platforms, and player demographics. Having a deep understanding of the gaming industry can help you identify issues and provide valuable feedback to the development team.
Skills You Need as A Remote Game Tester
Apart from education, and good knowledge about gaming and others, you need to have certain skills if you want to be a successful remote game tester. Here are some of the key skills:
- Strong attention to detail: As a game tester, you need to be able to identify even the smallest bugs or glitches in a game. This requires a sharp eye and keen attention to detail.
- Excellent communication skills: You’ll need to be able to communicate clearly and effectively with developers, project managers, and other team members. This includes writing detailed bug reports and providing feedback on game design and mechanics.
- Technical proficiency: You should be comfortable working with various software and hardware tools, including game engines, bug-tracking systems, and testing software.
- Strong analytical skills: You should be able to analyze game mechanics and identify potential issues or improvements.
- Time management skills: As a remote worker, you’ll need to be able to manage your time effectively and meet deadlines.
- Flexibility: The game development process can be unpredictable, so you need to be able to adapt to changes and work collaboratively with others.
- Passion for gaming: Finally, a passion for gaming is essential. As a game tester, you’ll need to be willing to play the same game repeatedly and be enthusiastic about finding and reporting issues.
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Tools to Work with As a Game Tester from Home.
As a game tester working from home, you will need several tools to help you perform your job efficiently. Here are some essential tools that you should consider:
- A powerful computer or laptop: You will need a fast and reliable computer or laptop to run the games you are testing. The machine should have a decent graphics card and a good amount of RAM to handle the demands of testing games.
- Game console(s): Depending on the type of games you will be testing, you may need to have one or more game consoles. Some games are exclusive to specific consoles, so you need to have access to the appropriate hardware to test them.
- Screen capture software: You will need screen capture software that can record your screen while you are testing games. This software will allow you to document any bugs, glitches, or issues that you encounter during testing.
- Bug tracking software: A bug tracking software will help you track and manage bugs that you find while testing. There are many different bug-tracking tools available, and you should choose one that best suits your needs.
- Communication tools: You will need to communicate with other team members, such as developers and project managers, during the testing process. Tools like Skype, Zoom, or Slack can be used to facilitate communication and collaboration.
- Test management software: Test management software can help you plan and organize your testing efforts. This software can help you create test cases, assign tasks to team members, and track testing progress.
- Internet connectivity: Since you will be working from home, you will need a reliable internet connection to access the games and communicate with team members. A high-speed internet connection is recommended for online multiplayer games.
Best Practices to Follow as A Remote Tester
As a remote game tester, there are several best practices you can follow to ensure that you are productive and successful in your role. Here are some of the most important ones:
1. Understand the Game
Before starting your testing, make sure you understand the game you’re working on, its objectives, and the target audience. This will help you focus on the relevant features, and provide more targeted feedback.
2. Use the Right Equipment
Make sure you have the right equipment and setup to effectively test the game. This includes a stable internet connection, a reliable computer, and the appropriate peripherals (e.g. controller, keyboard, mouse, etc.).
3. Establish Clear Communication Channels
It’s important to have a way to communicate with your team and clients, whether it’s through email, instant messaging, or video conferencing. Make sure you establish a regular schedule for check-ins with your team and have a clear understanding of what is expected of you.
4. Set up a Dedicated Workspace
Having a dedicated workspace can help you stay focused and avoid distractions. Make sure your workspace is quiet, well-lit, and comfortable, and that you have all the equipment you need to do your job.
5. Develop a Structured Testing Process
Developing a structured testing process can help you stay organized and efficient. This should include creating a testing plan, documenting test results, and following up with any issues or bugs you discover.
6. Stay Organized
It’s important to stay organized as a remote tester. Keep track of your tasks and deadlines, and make sure you’re prioritizing your work effectively.
7. Take Breaks and Prioritize Self-care:
Working remotely can be isolating, so it’s important to take breaks and prioritize self-care. Make sure you’re taking breaks throughout the day, getting plenty of exercise, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
How to Find Jobs as A Remote Tester
We know finding a job as a game tester from home can be challenging, especially in this remote competitive landscape. But there are some things you can do to increase your chances which can give you an edge over other applications. To have a competitive edge over others you need to:
- Build your skills: To become a game tester, you need to have a good understanding of video games and how they work. Start by playing a variety of games and paying attention to the mechanics, graphics, and overall user experience.
- Create a portfolio: As a game tester, you will need to demonstrate your skills to potential employers. Create a portfolio that showcases your experience, including any bugs or issues you have found in games and how you helped to resolve them.
- Research companies: Look for companies that offer remote game testing positions. There are many websites and job boards that list remote game testing positions, such as Indeed, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn.
- Apply for positions: Once you have identified companies that offer remote game testing positions, apply for the positions that interest you. Make sure to tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your experience and skills in game testing.
- Network: Connect with other game testers online through social media or professional networking sites. Join online communities where game testers gather to share tips and advice.
Where and how to find jobs as a remote game tester
There are several ways to find remote game testing jobs. Here are some of the easy ways to go about it:
- Online Job Boards: There are several online job boards such as Indeed, Monster, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn where you can search for remote game testing jobs.
- Gaming Companies: You can also directly visit the websites of gaming companies and check if they are hiring remote game testers. Some of the popular gaming companies that hire remote game testers include Electronic Arts, Ubisoft, and Blizzard Entertainment.
- Freelance Platforms: You can also explore freelance platforms such as Upwork, Freelancer, and Fiverr, where game-testing jobs are occasionally posted.
- Gaming Communities: Joining online gaming communities such as Reddit and Discord can be useful as game companies and developers may post job openings for remote game testers in such communities.
- Networking: Networking with people in the gaming industry, attending gaming conventions, and participating in game testing contests can also help you find remote game testing jobs.
Estimated Salary of a Game Tester
According to Glassdoor, the estimated total pay for a Game Tester is $56,355 per year in the United States area, with an average salary of $52,288 per year. Furthermore, they estimated an additional payment of $4,067 per year. Additional pay could include cash bonuses, commissions, tips, and profit sharing.
Conclusion
In conclusion, becoming a game tester from home can be an exciting and rewarding career path for those who are passionate about video games and have a keen eye for detail. While the job may require a lot of hard work and dedication, it can offer a unique opportunity to work from the comfort of your own home while helping to improve the quality of games that millions of people enjoy every day.
By following the tips outlined in this blog post, including building up relevant skills, networking with industry professionals, and taking advantage of online job platforms, aspiring game testers can take the first steps toward achieving their dream careers. With persistence and effort, it is possible to turn a love of gaming into a fulfilling and successful profession.