What is a Video Game Tester?

A video game tester, also known as a QA (quality assurance) tester, is responsible for finding and reporting bugs, glitches, and other issues in video games. They may work on-site or remotely, often testing multiple games simultaneously. The goal of a video game tester is to ensure that the final product meets the standards set by the development team and is free from major errors or problems that could negatively impact the player experience.

Roles of Video Game Testers

There are several different roles within the field of video game testing, each with their own specific responsibilities and salaries. Some common roles include:

• Manual testers – These are the most common type of tester and involve manually playing through the game to find bugs and other issues. They may also use automated tools to assist in their testing process.
• Automated testers – These testers use specialized software to automate certain aspects of the testing process, such as running tests on specific features or areas of the game.
• Performance testers – These testers focus on ensuring that the game runs smoothly and efficiently, often under heavy load or stress conditions.
• Localization testers – These testers are responsible for testing games in multiple languages to ensure that they are translated accurately and function properly in different regions.
• UX (user experience) testers – These testers focus on ensuring that the game is easy to use and enjoyable for players, often testing for usability issues or areas where the game could be improved.

Salaries for Video Game Testers

The salary for a video game tester can vary widely depending on factors such as experience, location, and specific role within the field. According to Glassdoor, the average salary for a video game tester in the United States is around $45,000 per year or approximately $21.79 per hour.

Factors Affecting Video Game Tester Salaries

Several factors can affect the salary of a video game tester, including:

• Experience – Testers with more experience tend to earn higher salaries than those who are just starting out in the field.
• Location – Video game testing jobs in major cities or tech hubs may pay more than jobs in smaller towns or rural areas.
• Role within the field – Testers working on more specialized roles, such as performance testing or localization, may earn higher salaries than manual testers.
• Company size and reputation – Large, well-known companies in the gaming industry may pay more than smaller startups or independent game developers.
• Certifications – Testers with certifications, such as ISTQB (International Software Testing Qualification Board) certification, may be able to command higher salaries due to their expertise and experience.

Tips for Increasing Your Video Game Tester Salary

If you are interested in becoming a video game tester and want to maximize your earning potential, here are some tips to consider:

1. Gain experience – The more experience you have testing games, the more valuable you will be to potential employers.