The path to the top at a video games company

No cheat codes required Tanya Combrinck finds out exactly what it takes to make the leap from burgeoning student to game-shaping art director

If you love video games, leading a team of exceptional artists to create fantastical new worlds might sound like a dream job. But in an industry that's more competitive than ever, how can you set yourself apart? And what do you have to do to forge a path to the top? A veteran art director with close to three decades' experience working on AAA titles such as the God of War series is Cecil Kim. "First off, you should know what area of art production you want to get into," he says. "It means knowing what you're passionate about doing." Like any career, it's tricky to work out your specialism at an early stage, but finding the things that are a natural fit for you as soon as possible will make your life much easier. "If you aren't certain, take some courses and see if you enjoy learning a certain discipline," advises Cecil. Finding that passion will give you the drive you need to keep learning, discovering, and pushing yourself that bit harder than your peers.

For example, if you're drawn to worldbuilding or character design, Cecil points out that a "strong interest in world cultures and ancient history" will help you. Reading up on these and other relevant topics might uncover an interest you never knew you had.

LEARNING JOURNEY

It's also worth noting here that a formal education is by no means a prerequisite for finding success in the games industry. "Times have changed a lot since I was starting out," reflects Bethesda Game Studios lead artist Alexander Alza. "These days you can absorb so much knowledge for free online. I know people who are self-taught and have had solid careers in the industry."