Video game testing is an essential part of the development process for any game. Testers are responsible for identifying and reporting on bugs, glitches, and other issues that could affect the player experience.
While salaries for video game testers can vary widely depending on factors such as location, experience level, and specific job duties, there are some general guidelines to keep in mind. In this article, we’ll explore how much video game testers typically make per month and what factors can affect their pay.
The Average Monthly Salary for Video Game Testers
According to Glassdoor data from November 2021, the average monthly salary for a video game tester in the United States is around $69,358. However, this can vary widely depending on factors such as experience level, location, and specific job duties.
Factors that Affect Video Game Tester Salaries
There are several factors that can affect the salary of a video game tester. These include:
- Experience level: Testers with more experience typically earn higher salaries than those just starting out in their careers. This is because they have a deeper understanding of the testing process and can identify issues more quickly and efficiently.
- Location: Video game testers working in major metropolitan areas, such as San Francisco or New York City, may command higher salaries due to the cost of living in those areas. Testers working in smaller cities or rural areas may earn less due to a lower cost of living.
- Job duties: Testers with more specialized skills, such as testing for mobile games or virtual reality (VR) experiences, may earn higher salaries than general testers. This is because these types of testing require a unique set of skills and expertise.
- Company size: Larger video game development companies may have the budget to pay their testers more than smaller companies. Additionally, some larger companies may offer benefits, such as health insurance or retirement plans, which can add value to a tester’s compensation package.
Real-Life Examples of Video Game Tester Salaries
To give you a better idea of what video game testers can expect to earn, let’s look at some real-life examples.
- A junior video game tester with 1-2 years of experience working in a major metropolitan area might earn around $70,000 per year, or approximately $5,833 per month.
- An experienced video game tester with 5-7 years of experience working in a smaller city might earn around $90,000 per year, or approximately $7,500 per month.
- A specialized mobile game tester with 3-5 years of experience working for a large company might earn around $120,000 per year, or approximately $10,000 per month.
It’s important to note that these are just rough estimates and actual salaries can vary widely based on individual circumstances.
The Importance of Salary Transparency in the Video Game Industry
As with any industry, salary transparency is important in the video game industry. Testers should be aware of what they’re worth and what they can expect to earn in their field. Additionally, companies should be transparent about their compensation practices to attract and retain top talent. This includes offering competitive salaries, benefits, and opportunities for advancement.
Conclusion
Video game testers play a critical role in ensuring that games are fun and bug-free for players. While salaries can vary widely depending on factors such as experience level, location, and job duties, the average monthly salary for a video game tester in the United States is around $69,358. By understanding what they’re worth and what they can expect to earn in their field, testers can make informed decisions about their careers and companies can attract and retain top talent.
