What do you do if you want to start a career in the gaming industry without formal education?

Starting a career in the gaming industry without formal education. 1. Build a Portfolio: Include game projects you've worked on, design documents, art, code, or even game mods. Use platforms like GitHub for development projects or Behance to showcase your work publicly. 2. Self-Learning: Utilize the vast array of online resources available. Websites like Udemy, Coursera, and Khan Academy offer courses on game design, programming, and digital art. 3. Networking: Connect with industry professionals via social media platforms like LinkedIn and Twitter. Attend industry events like game jams, conferences, and workshops to meet other game developers and learn from them. 5. Develop Technical Skills: You can download Unreal Engine for free.

The easiest and most effective way is to download Unity and many your first game. Create a showreel, reach out to companies and start with even a QA role.

Networking, in my experience is the most important thing you can do to help your chances of landing jobs. Even if you’re an introvert, make the effort. Remember, Game Developers are all mostly a bunch of introverted talented people quite similar to you. So you’ll feel right are home. This will help you also get a broader understanding of the industry.

The math is simple on this. The more games you create, the better you get at it. Game development is such a dynamic field that beyond a certain point, theory will have diminishing returns. While getting advanced knowledge in a specialisation requires a lot of theory, for example, while starting off, it’s wise to spend more time building and learning.

You just need to start. If you're "thinking about something" in the industry, whether it's being a pundit, being a developer, being a streamer -- anything -- you need to start! It doesn't matter if you don't have the best equipment or resources to do it well. Something is better than nothing, and your first attempt is always going to be of poor quality when you look back at it years, months, or even days from now. I started writing reviews for games when I was in middle school, and it's what made me major in journalism in college. Until now, I've never gotten an interview at a gaming publication, but I got my job as a community manager because my work was noticed and I proudly displayed it on my resumé despite making no money out of it.

Indeed, there are several pathways to embark on a career in the gaming industry without formal education. You can begin by participating in indie amateur projects to acquire foundational knowledge. Transitioning from a similar role in a different field is also a viable option. Starting in entry-level positions related to gaming allows you to learn and grow professionally on the job. Continuous learning is crucial, as the industry is constantly evolving. Additionally, seeking out a mentor who is experienced in your desired role can be immensely beneficial.

I know people who started career in gaming industry with just high school education: - They were very young - started from entry level positions like Support - either gained formal education while already working at the gaming company(once they knew what knowledge they are lacking and what positions they are aiming for) or were building skills and experience for the role they wanted to get Keep in mind that for certain positions requirements are stricter and formal education can give you advantage over other candidates if you are applying externally. It is much easier to get promoted/moved internally without a degree if you have built skills, experience and reputation.

Starting a career in the gaming industry without formal education is feasible through various steps: Build a strong portfolio showcasing your skills. Gain experience through internships or entry-level positions. Network and connect with industry professionals. Continuously learn and improve your skills. Apply for jobs based on your skills and potential, even if you don't meet all qualifications.

I started my career just helping my friend make his own game by giving him references from other games, then we decided to become freelancers and I had to complete my first level the day after I learned about the existence of LD. After that, I attended an online course which gave me a lot of knowledge, connections and portfolio. However, this was still not enough and I learned how to make my portfolio better, how to attend an interview, etc. After billions of rejections I got a job, my first job in game dev. What can you get from my story? You must never give up. If I could, then why can't you?