Career Path Change

[Anonymous]

Hi guys,

I have been working in web development for 8 years now and decided that I would like to work in the games industry.
I have been getting up to speed with C++ and Unreal Engine 4.

I have noticed however that there are not a lot of jobs going in Ireland for somebody with no experience.

Has anyone any advice for me?

Even some advice on a course I should take?

thanks,

Lee

[Aphra K]

Yes it is quite tough at the moment – even for folks coming out with degrees.

I would recommend going to some of the Gamecraft events to get to know people and some of what is going on.

As regards courses it kind of depends what area you are thinking of heading into – programming versus more design/art orientated.

You can search our database for courses at different levels and in different locations. Some are short intro level courses while others are full degrees – obviously very different offerings. Some of the folks at Gamecraft will have done some of them so that is an opportunity to discuss.

Finally, working on a portfolio as you get better with your skills is always useful.

Good luck

Aphra

[Anonymous]

Hey, thanks for the reply.

I have not heard of Gamecraft.
Seems I have just missed an event in February.

Yes, I have a computer science degree from DCU, and one or two of the modules related to graphics.
I went down the web development road however, and now I would like to make a change.

I am thinking of doing the pulse college 6 week introduction to get a bit of an insight into the industry.
I am pretty sure it is programming that I would like to get into! I know a good bit of C++ and I am currently reading this book: http://www.amazon.com/Game-Coding-Complete-Fourth-Edition/dp/1133776574/ref=lh_ni_t?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER

I looked up a few of the jobs and they all require 3+ years experience in the gaming industry.
If that is the case, how can I get into the industry! It’s the chicken/egg situation…

thanks for the advice!

[Aphra K]

Some companies offer internships, some outsource, and if you already have a degree in computer science and job experience I would be highlighting that!

the next Gamecraft on the island is up in Belfast….sometimes they run buses up from dublin – depends on demand.

Keep an eye out for DubLudo events too – more design focused but you will get some sense of what is going on in the indie scene.

Aphra

[Anonymous]

Some solid advice there Aphra. Thanks!

I will be checking out Gamecraft in belfast so.

[Author]

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