7 Steps to Become a Video Game Artist and Break into the Gaming Industry

[Edward Murray]

The evolution of video games is fascinating. When compared to other entertainment mediums, video games have drastically changed in just a short period of time. In thirty years, the games have changed from basic pixel graphics to complicated 3D environments art and models. The people who get the most credit for video game development are programmers and designers because they are involved in the creation of virtual worlds and other amazing things. However, if you think about it, it is the concept artist that brings the game to life through textures, animation and concept art. If you are passionate about video games and you would like career guidance to become a video game artist, this article is for you! To become successful, there are several things you need to consider that will help you create amazing video games that players can get lost in for hours. 

1.      Passion for Video Game Concept Art and Games

Most people underestimate the importance of passion when choosing their major. Most colleges and universities have numerous students who enroll in their programs. However, most students drop out of their programs before completing them when they realize it is not for them.

The same case applies to video game environment art. Students enroll in the program but give up when things get too complicated. If you are not a fan of drawing or using different photo editing software, becoming a video game concept artist might not be the right path for you.

2.      Master the Fundamentals of Game Concept Art

The fundamental areas of game art are painting and drawing. You need to master these areas so that you can be good at what you do. The best way to go about this is through practice. Practicing will help you figure out how to move your hands, how to use different drawing tools and most importantly, it improves your drawing skills.  In the beginning, your focus should be on drawing lines and forms and using them to create different characters. Once you have mastered this, you can move on to shapes and later shift your focus to anatomy. Learning these fundamental art skills will definitely enable you to create realistic video game characters.

3.      Understand Video Game Designer Requirements

In order to break into the video game industry, you need to understand all the requirements for video game designers and ensure you have all of them before you start applying for game artist jobs. Some of the things you need to become a great video game artist include:

• The right set of skills and knowledge
• Background Knowledge of Design
• A degree in video game design
• Experience

However, when it comes to experience and educational background, it depends on the employer. For some, a high school diploma is enough if you have basic knowledge of programming and design.  Some employers also require you to have experience either in the form of an internship or a previous job while others do not require this as long as you have the knowledge and skills they are looking for.

4.      Create Original Video Game Animation

Breaking into the game industry is not an easy task. If you want to make it, you need to create an original game animation that has not been seen before. Even the best game artists struggle with this. Most artists are surrounded by a lot of art which they draw inspiration from. However, drawing inspiration from the character concept art around you is the wrong way to go about creating amazing designs. You need to get out of your comfort zone and try things you have never tried before. Video games are art. This statement means there is a great chance that you might fail a number of times but this will improve your creativity. Remember that your creativity is what will make you remain relevant in the industry.

5.      Get Feedback About Your Video Game Character Concept Art

A lot of artists make the mistake of not seeking out feedback. Most artists would rather separate themselves from other creative and work on their own. This prevents them from getting valuable input about their work, and it also prevents them from growing because they end up repeating the same mistakes over and over again. If you want to succeed, you need to be open to the idea of getting feedback from other artists. There are several ways you can seek feedback about your game character concept art and other designs. You can join community forums or contact the artist you admire most to ask for their feedback. If you are in school, you can ask your professor for feedback. However, when you decide to seek other people’s opinion about your work, do not take criticism personally. Use it to improve your weak areas.

6.      Be Patient When Learning How to Become a Videogame Designer

Learning the art of becoming a videogame designer takes a lot of time and practice. It will take a lot of time before you can create a final fantasy environment concept art like a pro without a lot of challenges. Therefore, do not go in thinking that it will happen overnight. You need to be patient and trust the process. Take the time to learn everything you need and practice every chance you get. It might not happen as soon as you want it to but if you do your part, you will land your dream job eventually.

7.      Focus on the Practical Aspects of Being a Digital Artist

When you are learning how to become a game artist, do not focus too much on the theatrical aspects of the field. Instead of reading about video games and designing video game characters, you should focus more on doing it practically. Get design tools, drawing tools and other tools that will help you practice and do it often. If possible, you should also try getting a mentor who can teach you practical applications of what you are learning in school. This will help you strengthen your skills.

[Edward Murray]

Got it :) I just like to share my experience, and I thought such topic might be interesting for readers.

[Lady Brielle Serra]

Oops! Apparently there was a glitch. Anyhow. Thank you for sharing! I am a moderator and we sometimes get people who post totally non relevant topics. The anecdote is appreciated for sure!

[Lady Brielle Serra]

Hello. Perhaps it didn't work the first time?

[Lady Brielle Serra]

Thank you! We occasionally have the problem of people coming on here and writing up a bunch of articles that have nothing to do with steampunk whatsoever. I appreciate your personal anecdotes and how it relates :)

[Edward Murray]

Yes. For example, I and my friend Brien were fond of steampunk books since we were 7. And, for example, for him sooner it turns to love to games and game industry. And now he is a steampunk concept artist. 
For me everything is simple.

[Lady Brielle Serra]

Hello Sir! Is there any way this pertains to steampunk?