How does one become a video game tester?

Question

Do you need to have connections? Or is it like that movie Grandma's Boy where he just works for a big corporation

Answer 1

Having worked for Sierra and Acclaim both, I'll tell you how it generally works.

First, you have to live in a city that actually has companies (or divisions of companies) that produce Video Games.

Second, you have to be willing to work outrageously long hours for outrageously low pay and NO benefits. Remember, your competing with everybody else who thinks this is a "dream job."

Third, you probably should make friends with someone who is already a tester, who'll recommend you when companies start looking to fill positions. I suggest it be a friend you can provide sexual favors for, to guaruntee the recommendation.

Some teenagers are able to get freelance test positions because they'll work for the cost of a high-speed connection and internet account - no really, I've seen this happen.

This is NOT a long-term carreer move - you want to be a "testing supervisor," or get trained by the company that hires you on the various "console" standards (i.e. X-Box, Playstation, Nintendo) so you can become a Standards Specialist.

Plan on living in your parents' basement for about the next 40 years - or until they die and leave you the rest of the house, whichever comes first!

Answer 2

You take a course. I've seen one advertised on tv.