COMPUTER GAMING AND SIMULATION INDUSTRY
An Overview
What It Takes…
Console games are expected to generate $34.7 billion in sales by 2012, while
online games will generate another $14.4 billion.

You need extremely strong
math skills and a logical
mind.

You need the ability to
focus on very specific tasks.

You need knowledge of
physics along with strong
visual and spatial abilities.

You need to be
comfortable working on
your own as well as with
others and be able to
communicate your ideas.
— 2008 Global Entertainment and Media Outlook Report
Video games are everywhere — on our computers, our phones, in our
houses, and at baseball and theme parks. As the industry has matured,
structure and business practices have been brought to the creation of video
games, meaning that more people must be employed in order to bring them
to life.
In addition, simulation technology has expanded rapidly. Whether it's
helping nurses improve their care to patients, teaching a pilot how to fly or
helping a SWAT team member learn how to defuse a bomb, simulations
provide excellent opportunities to learn without risk.
Creating games and simulation programs requires a wide range of skills.
You may love to play video games, but it's important to remember that the
emphasis in these careers is on programming
TYPICAL JOB TITLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Game Producers or
Executive Gaming
Producers
Game Producers are basically responsible for supervising the entire process of
development of a video game. However, the roles vary greatly depending on the kind
of company and team one is working with. Internal video game producers are a handson unit and work with a developer. External producers work for game publishers, and
are responsible for managing multiple projects on which several different groups of
developers work. Employers require prospective producers to have a strong
educational background with emphasis on Project Management and Methodology,
Psychology, writing, diplomacy, organizational skills, and team functionality. Tester
experience is helpful.
Line Producers
Line producers, on the other hand, work on the costing and project management
aspects of video game development. Their primary duties involve keeping projects
within the budget and ensuring their timely delivery.
Game, Simulation or
Computer Design
Game and computer software designers are professionals who create video games and
programs for both gaming/simulation systems and computers. Employers require
prospective design/character design, Psychology, math, and writing.
Animator
Know the difference between games and cinema. Know how to rig, draw in 2D,
anatomy, movements, math, and the 12 Principals of Animation.
Technical Director
Act as lead programmer on a game, managing and directing others and keeping an eye
on overall quality and playability.
Gaming and
Simulation Artists
Need to specialize and have a firm knowledge in graphics, textures, environments, and
story boards. Study life situations and be able to draw them. Digital art and animation
are the buzz words in today's media industries. As animation and technology has
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COMPUTER GAMING AND SIMULATION INDUSTRY
advanced in the recent years, the need of excellent 3D artists has become a necessity for
various firms that design video games and animated movies. Media production houses
thrive on innovation, effects, and creativity. With advancements in the latest gaming
technology, 3D artists are expected to create elements for video games and animate
movies. With this new demand for more high-tech approaches, an artist needs to know
how to “rig.” A gaming rig usually has high-end components in it, as current computer
games are among the most hardware intensive programs. Often a gaming rig will also
feature aesthetic additions, such as colored lighting, display windows, and additional
displays.
Programmers
Programmers are the heart and soul of gaming development. The knowledge of
mathematics is number one and problem solving is everything — not only to fix a
problem but evolve the game further! Specialization is the key now. There are
numerous types and levels of gaming programmers. Some specialized programmer
positions are:
Programming
Manager
In conjunction with the Producer, the Programming Manager puts together and
manages the team of game programmers responsible for creating all the computer code
which runs and controls a game. The Programming Manager manages the software
engineering of a game from start to finish.
Game
Programmer
Map and write video game software programs. Improve the processing time of games
while adding functionality and increasing playability. Define the physical constraints of
the game's world (how things move and react) and ensure continuity across the game's
programming.
Engine
Programmer
Engine programmers are specialist programmers that write the code for a game engine or
parts of a game engine that can potentially be used in multiple games. They can also work
on R&D or Technology to improve engines for future games.
Artificial Intelligence
Programmer
Write code to make computer controlled characters respond realistically. Develop rules
that dictate character behavior and game play.
Network
Programmer
Network Programmers specialize in the design and writing of computer code that runs
and controls an online game or the online elements of a multiplayer game.
Sound
Programmer
Focus on the audio portions of video game play. Develop music tracks, sound effects
and ambient noises to increase the authenticity and interest of games and simulations.
Tool
Programmer
Focus on software that enables designers, artists and sound programmers to develop
game components. Create editing and playback tools to help test games in progress
Visual Effects
Programmer
Special Effects Programmers specialize in the design and writing of computer code
that runs and controls the visual effects of a game, such as explosions, smoke, wind,
and water, etc.
Game Tester
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The ability to clearly communicate the various aspects of game play is essential to a good
game tester — testers must be able to convey what they experienced in their game play
in detail. This will need to be shared both verbally and in written form. More than
actual Video Game Tester educational learning, requirements may involve you having to
prove yourself in the following skills — passion for games, computer technicalities,
analytical skills, extended working hours under pressure, and thinking innovatively.
Many employers do like it if you have a college degree and you may find it harder to find
work without one — especially in the beginning before you prove what you are worth.
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COMPUTER GAMING AND SIMULATION INDUSTRY
EDUCATION IS MORE IMPORTANT NOW THAN EVER…
http://www.animationarena.com/video-game-salary.html
The gaming and simulation industry used to hire Generalists but now with the world demands, market saturation,
and increase in candidate “supply and demand,” businesses have the luxury of focusing on and hiring specialists.
This is the time to “pick your path” by reflecting on your natural talents and passions, researching your options,
and determining your educational needs.
Education Costs
For the 2009-10 school year, the average cost of one year's tuition at a traditional college or university was $7,020
for public schools and $26,273 for private schools, reports CollegeBoard.com.
Two examples of the most popular job choices in the gaming/simulation field are:
EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS — Game and Simulation Designers
Education is the key to success here. Employers require prospective designers to have a strong
educational background in both Computer Science and Design. Although some schools offers Associate's Degree
and Certificates in game or software design, most employers prefer candidates to have a Bachelor's Degree from a
traditional college or university, reports the Game Career Guide.
Majors
Computer software and game designers often major in areas like software engineering or computer science,
explains the University of Labor Statistics. Employers may consider applicants with other majors, provided the
student has taken courses that relate to software and game design.
Types of Courses
Courses that provide important skills and knowledge for game and computer software designers include physics,
math, architecture/levels, psychology (emotional response), history, studio arts like drawing or painting, music
appreciation, writing, literature, mythology, computer science, acting, screenwriting, film appreciation, marketing
and management, according to the Game Career Guide. Knowledge of all games is important — from Dungeons
and Dragons, all board games, to the more current and intricate challenges. When you interact with these games
look beyond the obvious and “think out of the box.”
Time Frame
Most bachelor's degree programs require four years to complete for all majors, including those common for game
or computer software designers.
EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS— Game and Simulation Programmers
Game programmers are essentially software engineers who write code for video games so they run properly.
Working closely with game producers and designers, they are responsible for bringing their vision to fruition.
Most game programmers in 2011 focus in a particular area of programming, such as graphics or audio. Game
programmers need to meet the educational requirements for the career, which includes both formal education and
on-the-job experience.
Education Programs
Although it is possible for a talented game programmer to find work without a college degree, a Bachelor's or
Associate degree in a related area is extremely useful for establishing an educational foundation and learning how
the industry works. The Bureau of Labor Statistics recommends aspiring game programmers complete a degree
program in Computer Science, Information Systems or Mathematics to prepare for this career. Some colleges and
universities even offer programs specifically designed for game programmers. Certain game programmer positions
require a Master's degree in Computer Science, but most entry-level positions are available to those with only
undergraduate education.
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COMPUTER GAMING AND SIMULATION INDUSTRY
Recommended Courses
Regardless of the educational path you choose, it's important to take certain classes to prepare you for the
demands of the job. Gamedev.net recommends the following essential courses for aspiring game developers:







C/C++ Programming
Assembly Level Programming
Software Engineering
Data Structures
Algorithms
Communication Networks
Physics






Computer Architecture
Computer Graphics (including Polygon Mesh, Texture Mapping
and Shading)
Expert Systems
Human Factors
Linear Algebra
Vector Calculus
Check with your education program to confirm it offers as many of these courses as possible.
Skills and Background
Game programming requires a specific background and set of skills; not all people are equipped to handle the
demands of the job. Candidates should have extensive knowledge about video games and should be passionate
about playing them. Programmers should also be highly detail-oriented, analytical and organized individuals who
can commit to long-term projects and meet deadlines. Experience with a wide range of softwares and
programming languages is also a big plus. Strong communication skills, both written and oral, are also essential for
this career. Candidates should have a strong background in Mathematics, Science and computers. Those with lots
of experience programming and working in IT are the most desirable for employers.
Career Advancement
Game programmers can generally expect to advance in the career by gaining experience and learning new
programming skills. Those who wish to shift toward managerial and supervisory positions should earn a degree in
a management discipline. A graduate business degree, such as an MBA, can be very useful for programmers who
want to start their own companies and enter the marketing side of game production. One of the most important
things for game programmers is to always stay up-to-date on the latest advancements in gaming technology. This
can be achieved by taking continuing education courses.
TYPICAL SALARY CONSIDERATIONS AND SALARY RANGES FOR A VARIETY OF
COMPUTER PROGRAMMING POSITIONS
One of the fastest growing job markets in the country right now is in the video game and simulation design
industry. This industry is taking in over $7 billion dollars in revenue yearly. So every employer in this job field is
looking for the brightest, most talented new recruits they can find, and they are willing to pay those who fit the bill
a very good wage.
There are many employers like Blizzard, EA, and Microsoft leading the way and according to a Game Makers
Salary Survey this is what they are willing to pay.
Video Game Programmers — If you are a video game programmer, and it does not matter if you specialize
in AI, networking or graphic engines, you will on the average, earn more then the other jobs in the industry. The
starting salaries are down a little from previous years but that is only because many people have figured out that
the video gaming industry is almost recession proof and many college graduates are flooding the industry. Here is
what you can expect to make.
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COMPUTER GAMING AND SIMULATION INDUSTRY

Programmers and Engineers first entering the business or with less than three years experience, you can
start off by making, on the average, $50,000 a year. If you have between three and six years experience you can
plan to earn $66K a year and if you have six years and up on the job you can make over $88K a year.

Lead Programmers make a little more when they are coming in, but you will have more responsibilities.
The entry level pay for a lead programmer is close to $56,000 a year. Once you have at least three years under
your belt you should be averaging about $83K a year. Once you have been in the business for over six years
you will make over $90K a year.

Video game technical directors have a lot of responsibilities so they are paid well, even at the entry
level. For those coming into the business or having less then three years in the industry you can average
$60,700 a year. Once you get between three to six years you can begin to make $73K a year. Those who last in
the business for over six years you can expect to make just around $110K each year, one of the highest salaries
for this job description was reported at $195,500.
Artist and Animators — In 2006 a survey found that artist and animators were making more money then the
previous years and that was at all levels of experience. The largest increases in salary were earned by those with
more then three years of experience. Artists have many responsibilities like giving the game its' look and feel. It
seems at the entry level artist may be paid a little less but once you have the experience you can actually make more
money then coders. We found that the highest salaried coder made less then the highest paid artist. If you are an
artist here is what you can figure on making:

A Video Game Artist that is either just entering the business or has less then three years of experience can
plan on making, on the average $41,500 a year. Once you have gained at least three years experience your
earning will increase to $53,300. A game artist that can last in the business for over six years will make $66,700
a year.

Video Game Animators will make on the average, $46,700 a year for three years of experience or less.
There is quite an increase once you make it past the three year mark, you can now make $67,000 a year. Once
you have six years of experience as a video game animator you can now earn just over $75K a year.

If you are hired as a lead artist or animator you can expect a salary of just over $64K per year until you have at
least three years of experience. Once you have over three years on the job you will begin to make around
$67K. Once you have seniority on the job you can make anywhere from $80,000 to a whopping $215,000 a
year.

Video Game Designers — When you were younger you probably told your parents that when you grew
up you were going to make video games. They probably did not pay much attention to your comments at the
time, but now you can actually make that dream job reality. The technical term for those who "make" video
games is a game designer. The market for games designers is very competitive and it does not matter whether
you are self-taught or are highly educated. The good thing is this position also pays well at all levels of
experience. You will also find that the more proven you are in the industry the faster your salary will rise.
Employers are looking for people that can withstand the rigors of the job. One of the best pieces of advice
for a newbie is to get a mentor to work with.

A video game designer with less then three years of experience will make, on the average $46K a year.
With between three and six years experience a game designer can bring home $55,600 a year. Once you have
over six years of on the job experience you can average almost $70K a year.

A Creative Director or Lead Designer can bring home $45,000 a year until you have over three years of
experience. Then you can start to average $54,000 a year. Lead designers or creative directors with over six
years experience will make around $81K a year. The highest reported salary that we were able to find for a lead
artist was $180,000 a year.

Video Game Producers manage every aspect involved in creating a video game. They are in charge of
every decision being made from beginning to end. They coordinate all the different departments involved,
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COMPUTER GAMING AND SIMULATION INDUSTRY
and make sure that the deadlines are met and the project stays on budget. Becoming a video game producer
takes a little time and one of the best places to start is in Quality Assurance.
Producers, some times referred to as the project lead usually has a minimum of three years of experience in the
industry so we have no figures on what someone who has less then three years experience would make. Once you
have had at least three years on the job you can expect to bring home $62,000 on the average. With over six years
of experience you will begin to make an average of $80,000 a year.
Executive Producers have been known to make, on the average, $50,000 a year. Once you have over six years
of experience you can start to command a salary of almost $82K a year. Executive producers with over six years
of experience will receive a six-figure salary. The highest salary we found was $200,000 a year.
Video Game Quality Assurance — If you are video game enthusiast but have no technical skills applying in
the Quality Assurance department is a great way to get your foot in the door. In fact most producers once started
in the QA department and worked their way up the ladder

Game Testers — Becoming a game tester is a dream job for most video game enthusiast and you can get
paid to actually play the games. You can expect to make $32,000 on the average if you have less then three
years of experience. You really do not begin to make significantly more money until you have over six years
of experience and then you can make an average of $50,000 ay year. If you have some qualification in
programming or graphic design this will increase your starting salary.

Any Lead QA person can expect to make $40,000 a year until you have over three years of experience. You
can then anticipate a salary of $50,000 for up to six years of experience. With more then six years of
experience you will begin to make $60,000, on the average. If you are really good and can last in the business
you can make a nice chunk of change, the highest report salary for a lead QA is $215,000.

Video Game Audio — This is a growing field in the gaming industry and the average salary has been
increasing the past few years. This is especially true for entry–level musicians. Right now it does not matter if
you a musician, audio engineer, composer, or a director once you have six or more years of experience you will
keep pace with the programmer’s salary.
Sound Designers or Engineers coming in at an entry–level position cans usually start with a salary of
$50,000. Once you get over three years of experience you can make $66,000 a year. A sound designer or engineer
will make, on the average $74,000 a year, once they have reached six years or more on the job.
Musicians or Composers in the Video Game Design Industry will generally have a starting salary of
$55,000 a year until you have around three years of experience. Once you have been in the industry between three
and six years you will begin making $62K a year. If you have the staying power you can make on the average
$90,000 a year once you have over six years in the industry. The highest salary we have found for a musician is
$215,000 a year.
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COMPUTER GAMING AND SIMULATION INDUSTRY
TOP 25 GAMING COMPANIES 2010
Nintendo leads the ranking of gaming companies, based on
software revenues. Gaming has become big business, especially
during the last decade: the industry grew at double digit rates until
last year. The top 10 companies now have a combined revenue of
over 24 billion USD, in a market estimated to be worth well over
50 billion USD, which is slightly less than in 2008 (-5%). Despite
the economic crisis, the online gaming segment is still booming,
resulting in fast growth of the leading companies in this market.
Leaders
Nintendo is the largest gaming company in the world. Bringing
gaming to new audiences with the Wii, Nintendo reached a peak in
gaming revenue in 2008. In 2009, software revenues were a little
lower (-6.2%), as was the case for most top 10 companies. The
largest American game publishers, Activision Blizzard (#2) and EA
(#3), saw revenues decline with -7.4% and -12.7% respectively.
Sony and Microsoft, both competing with Nintendo on the game
console market, are far behind with less than a third of Nintendo's
software revenues.
Seven companies in the 2010 list have gaming software revenues
above US$1 billion.
#
Company
Revenues
(2009)
1
Nintendo
6,799
2
Activision Blizzard
4,279
3
Electronic Arts
3,728
4
Sony
1,914
5
Microsoft
1,741
6
Konami
1,594
7
Ubisoft
1,249
8
Take-Two Interactive
916
9
Square Enix
916
10 THQ
909
Fast growing companies
Growth of gaming revenues mainly took place in Asia, the top 5
fastest growing companies are all from Asia. Out of these five, four
are online computer game companies. NCSoft and Nexon are the
leading South Korean companies, NetEase and Perfect World are
headquartered in China.
11 Namco Bandai
860
12 Sega Sammy Holdings
836
13 Capcom
767
14 Shanda Interactive
704
Trends
As the fast growth top 10 shows, online gaming is becoming more
popular. For 2009, the market share of online games is estimated at
one sixth of the total video game market. This share is rising
quickly, as are the companies in this field. It took the most
successful companies only a few years to make hundreds of millions
USD. Chinese Shanda Interactive is the largest pure-play online
gaming company with sales of over US$ 700 million. US based
Zynga, the maker of FarmVille, made an estimated $270 million in
2009.
15 Nexon Corporation
608
16 NCSoft
549
17 MTV Games
329
18 Perfect World
313
19 Zynga
270
20 Tecmo Koei
260
21 Changyou
260
22 Disney Interactive
252
23 NetEase.com
247
24 Atlus
208
25 Giant Interactive
189
Traditional game makers are aware of the online goldmine, and are
publishing their own online titles.
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COMPUTER GAMING AND SIMULATION INDUSTRY
TOP 25 GAMING COMPANIES 2010
#
Company
Revenues
(2009)
Revenues in millions USD, contains estimates
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COMPUTER GAMING AND SIMULATION INDUSTRY
FASTEST GROWING GAMING COMPANIES
The gaming industry has quickly grown in the past, and we
expect it to keep growing faster than the software industry
average.
As the world population grows richer, progressively more
money is available for entertainment, which provides a sound
revenue driver for the gaming industry.
#
Company
Growth Rate
1
NCSoft
99.6%
2
NetEase.com
85.7%
3
Nexon Corporation
70.3%
4
Square Enix
62.1%
5
Perfect World
48.3%
GAME DEVELOPER PROFESSIONAL GROUPS AND ORGANIZATIONS
International Game Developers Association (IGDA) is the professional society for over 10,000 video and
computer game developers worldwide. The (IGDA) is the largest non-profit membership organization serving
individuals who create video games in the United States.
The association brings together developers at conferences, in local chapters and in special interest groups to
improve their lives and craft. As an international organization, it uses the Internet to connect with each other on a
wide range of projects. Its stated mission is “To advance the careers and enhance the lives of game developers.”
In recognition of the wide-ranging, multidisciplinary nature of interactive entertainment, there are no barriers to
entry. Any person who considers him or herself to be a game developer may join.
Chapters are formed and are intended to provide an informal way to connect game developers within local
communities. Chapters vary greatly in size and meeting attendance. They provide forums, for example, for
discussions on current issues in the computer gaming industry and demos of the latest games. A task force has
been created to consider chapter formalization, but no such formalities as official membership currently exist for
IGDA chapters. Regional chapters may collaborate on events, as with the GameX Industry Summit.
http://www.igda.org/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/International_Game_Developers_Association#cite_note-4
Simulation and Gaming Associations / Organizations
High Level Recognition of Modeling and Simulation (M&S)

US Congressional Modeling and Simulation Caucus (News) (Congressman J. Randy Forbes)
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COMPUTER GAMING AND SIMULATION INDUSTRY
Networking of Professional Organizations



MSLS - M&S leadership Summit
SimSummit
G.A.M.E.S. Synergy Summit (Government, Academic,
Military, Entertainment and Simulation)

AMSE - Association for the Advancement of Modelling
and Simulation Techniques in Enterprises

ANGILS - Alliance for New Generation Interactive
Leisure and Simulation


DIGRA - Digital Games Research Association
EBEA - The Economics and Business Education
Association

AIMS IC - Advanced Initiative in Medical Simulation
(AIMS) Industry Council (IC)

ESRC SAGE - Simulating Social Policy for an Ageing
Society

AMSC - Alabama Modeling & Simulation Council
(Members & member organizations)

IASTED - International Association of Science and
Technology for Development

ETSA - European Training and Simulation Association
(Member organizations)

IBPSA - International Building Performance Simulation
Association

IMSF - International Marine Simulator Forum
(Members)


ITSA - International Training and Simulation Alliance
(Members)
IFIP TC7 WG7.1 - Modelling and Simulation Working
Group of the Technical Committee TC 7 (System
Modelling and Optimization) of IFIP (International
Federation for Information Processing)


KTSA - Korea Training Systems Association


IGDA - International Game Developers Association

IMACS - International Association for Mathematics and
Computers in Simulation

INACSL - International Nursing Association for Clinical
Simulation and Learning


INFORMS Simulation Society
M&SNet - McLeod Modeling & Simulation Network
(of SCS) (Member organizations)

MISS - McLeod Institute of Simulation Sciences (of
SCS) (MISS centers)

NCS - The National Center for Simulation (USA)
(Member organizations)

NEMSC - New England Modeling & Simulation
Consortium


NIST SSC - Simulation Standards Consortium
NMASTC - National Modeling Analysis Simulation
and Training Coalition

NTSA - National Training Systems Association (USA)
(Membership)

SIAA - Simulation Industry Association of Australia
(Members & member organizations)

SIAA-ASSG (SISO Australia) - Simulation Industry
Association of Australia -Australia Standing Study
Group

SUN - Simulation User Network (Medical, Nursing,
and Healthcare)

UK STAG - UK Simulation and Training Action Group
Associations — International

ABSEL - Association for Business Simulation and
Experiential Learning

ACM SIGSIM - ACM Special Interest Group on
Simulation


AIS SIGMAS - Association for Info Systems
IMA - International Microsimulation Association (a.k.a.
microanalytic simulation)
ISAGA - International Simulation and Gaming
Association (affiliated regional gaming & simulation
associations can be seen at ISAGA)

M&SPCC - Modeling and Simulation Professional
Certification Commission


Modelica - Modelica Association

SAGSET - The Society for the Advancement of Games
and Simulations in Education and Training

SCS - Society for Modeling & Simulation International
(Formerly Society for Computer Simulation) (Ethics,
M&SNet, MISS)


SGI - Serious Games Initiative
SSAISB - Society for the Study of Artificial
Intelligence and the Simulation of Behaviour
SSH - Society in for Simulation in

SAE - Human Biomechanics and Simulation
Standardization Committee
Special Interest Group on Modeling and Simulation
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