requirement for game tester?

Question

does anyone know the requirements for game tester anyone at all will help.

Answer 1

just read this:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Game_tester

.

Answer 2

Game testers need to have a system that meets the minimum requirements of the game...in other words, if a game calls for a minimum speed, video card, ram etc then the potential tester must be able to meet those requirements using his computer.

Further, it is helpful to be able to recognize "bugs", a familiarity with the game or games of its type, be able to submit well written, concise and to the point documentation that provides the company/programmers with accurate detailed information so that they can duplicate the problem when necessary.

An eye for detail is also important...depending on what aspect of the game is being tested...if it is functionality these are the areas that they want to hear about, if performance then that is what you are testing...if it is error codes or coding problems themselves (which normally aren't part of an avg beta tester requirement in most cases)...good documentation will be excellent support for the programmers to correct, add, reduce or otherwise streamline their work.

Beta testers usually have a good command of computer useage and shouldn't require assistance in things such as computer freeze ups, game crashes etc.

Positive as well as constructive criticism earns points...and many beta testers take this task very seriously particularly because a beta tester has the opportunity to earn a variety of incentives as well as copies of the final product.

As a beta tester for numerous programs, I think that if you enjoy trying to improve and make better, applications/games that you yourself have an interest in using...it can be a very rewarding undertaking. I have two sons beta testing WOW right now, one son plans on becoming part of the Blizzard team in California in a year or two and so he has a strong interest in beta testing to the best of his ability.

If you are seeking this as an employment opportunity...beta testing under the "no pay" label allows you to offer them proof that you are beta material. Game testers that do nothing but this day in and day out have a high "burn out" rate...therefore this isn't something that you would make your life's work...however it is a foot in the door if that is the direction you wish to head. The competition however is pretty staggering and companies don't choose everyone who applies. There is a certain profile you will have to meet and through interviews it will be determined whether or not you have the personality for this. Getting to that point tho might be awhile and thus the reason I suggest the "back door" route...doing it for little to no remuneration...documenting each and every Company and product that you are involved with.

Good luck...

Answer 3

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 4

I would imagine that for a job as a general game tester you'd need to:

- be able to play all kinds of games decently
- be able to do wacky and unusual things to test for bugs
- be able to give constructive criticism