Video Game Tester

As the video game industry experiences unprecedented growth, gamers are getting more of an opportunity to turn their passion into cash. Thanks to ginormous game companies like Take‑Two Interactive, average gamers can land a part‑time or even full‑time gig as a video game tester. The job is a gamer’s dream.

Although it doesn’t look that complicated, game testing is actually more delicate and demanding than most people think. As a game tester, you are expected to play a game and search for flaws and bugs, record those flaws, find a way to deliberately trigger them, and compile an accurate and compelling report. Video game testing requires you to have a working knowledge of Microsoft suites, decent writing skills, and a solid grasp of the technical terms needed to properly do your job.

Most game tester jobs require basic education and a working knowledge of gaming controls.

Game testers are temps most of the time, they get paid anywhere from $10–$25 per hour. With experience, you could potentially leverage that into a higher paycheck. Full‑time employment gigs also exist.

The prospect of getting paid to do nothing but game all day might seem abstract and fictitious. However, there are actually great employment opportunities out there. Numerous game studios need gamers to comb over their creation multiple times and unearth what all the developers couldn’t find.

Landing an actual game testing job sometimes all boils down to living in the right city. Places like Silicon Valley and San Francisco are packed with mega game studios. They are the perfect hunting ground for game testers. Locations that are less tech‑dependent might have limited jobs. Look on reputable sites like  or the jobs section of your dream employer’s website.

As a game tester, you should target large companies and avoid startups as much as possible. With larger studios, there is always the chance of breaking into the industry by becoming a game developer or designer after completing a degree. It can be a stepping stone to higher positions and gives you the experience needed to land larger jobs in the future.

Major publishers do hire game testers. Full‑time roles exist, though they are less common. The most lucrative jobs may require 60 hours weekly, competitive pay, and benefits. The downside is the extensive hours. Nevertheless, it’s an outstanding opportunity to learn about the industry and earn money.

• Possible video game careers
• Current jobs in gaming

Jobs from Indeed and other sources can help you locate testing opportunities. Search using terms such as “video game tester,” “QA game tester,” and “gaming quality assurance tester.”