Frequently Asked Questions
Ok, but how much will I get paid to test video games?
According to a 2012 Game Developer Magazine survey, game testers earn an average of $39,063 annually. Testers with less than three years experience earn an average of $25,142 while testers with over six years experience earn $43,056. Testing leads with over six years experience earn on an average of $70,658 a year.
What kind of games will I get to test?
Game testers test all games for release on Xbox 360, Playstation 3 (PS3), Nintendo DS, Nintendo Wii & PC. Genres include sports titles, RTS, FPS, MMPORGS, action, adventure and much more. It's is impossible to tell what games you may test as a game tester, because most will be games that haven't even been released to the public!
Am I limited to only my home computer, can I test on my laptop at a coffee shop?
You do not need to test only from your home computer. You can test from anywhere as long as the game is up and running. If you have a super duper laptop that has two video cards you can test from a local coffee shop if you wish. As long as you can run the game...
Why would someone want to pay me just to play video games?
Testing videos games is one of the most vital parts of the game development process. Game developers need people like you to test their games to make sure there are no glitches or problems with the gameplay, music, graphics and general workings of the game. These companies are investing millions in there games and can not afford to release a poor game. So don't undervalue your importance and worth as a game tester.
 |
|
|
|
 |
Do I need special education or skills to be able to do this?
No prior education or experience is need. That is the whole point behind the course. It's designed to give you the experience necessary to both land and perform your job. Everyone has to start somewhere, and by starting with this course you will have a huge head start on other job applicants.
Is there a limit to how many games I can beta test, or how much money I can make?
The only limit to how many games you can play/test and the amount of money you can make is your time. If you wish to put full-time effort into beta testing, then you will make more money. Your income will be completely dependent on your effort and attentiveness.
What is the method through which I'll be paid? How often will I be paid?
This will depend on the company that you work for. Most companies pay bi-weekly by check or direct deposit. You will have to talk with the Human Resources department of that company about further details.
What if I don't have all the platforms? Will I be provided with a new XBOX 360, PS2, PS3, etc? What if I have a slow computer?
This will depend on the company. The job description will dictate whether you will be provided with a new system (if you don't have it) or whether having the new system is a requirement to land the job. This will be disclosed to you when you apply for the job.
|
|
|
|
|
I don't like giving out my credit card number online. What guaranties do you offer that my credit card number will stay with your company and not be sold to someone else?
The billing for your credit card is done through a High-grade Encryption (AES-256, 256bit). For added security you can also pay via PayPal.com if you wish.
How Much Can I Work a Week?
You can work as much or as little as you want. Just pick the jobs that you would like to complete and they will either have you go into a local testing center, or they will send the game to you. It is that easy!!
Do I get to Keep the Games I Test?
Many companies allow you to keep the games you test. I have a library of some 200 PS2 games that I have tested. It wasn't work, believe me. It was a lot of fun!!
|
|
|
|
|
