What's the best way to get into the computer game industry?

Question

WITHOUT having to go back to school...I've been a software programmer for 11 years and have experience with C++ and have used a lot of control system interfaces. Thanks

Answer 1

Testing is the easiest way to get in, but sounds like you don't want to go that way.

Your experience is in the wrong parts, basically. While C++ is good, you need experience in OpenGL and/or DirectX if you want to work on graphics engine. You can also do interface, software tools, AI, multiplayer code, map scripting, and more. Sounds like you're mainly on the industrial side of programming. How about working for a hardware company that makes games? Handheld games and such? Learn Java (not THAT different from C++) and you can do some BREW programming. Handheld games are hot right now.

Answer 2

Try to look at these two gaming websites. There are very well known, and have been around for over 6-8 years. I use to browse them often half decade ago :-)

http://www.gamasutra.com/
http://www.gamedev.net/

Those are really good starts, I gave up on learning game programming, It's a tough industry to break in, frankly I was never at genius level, only a mediocre coder/designer, so I gave up ehehhehe.

I wish you luck, if you have passion and desire I feel you can succeed. Hope those sites are helpful to you!