How to become a game compatibility tester

How to become a Game Compatibility Tester

Becoming a game compatibility tester can be a rewarding career for those passionate about gaming and technology. Here's a breakdown of how to get started:

Build a Foundation
Play a wide variety of games across different genres and platforms. This will give you a feel for game mechanics, user interfaces, and common issues that can arise.

High School Diploma
This is generally the minimum educational requirement for most entry-level positions, including game testing. Focus on computer classes to familiarize yourself with software and hardware. Math and science courses can help develop analytical skills, while English and speech classes improve communication.

Postsecondary Training

• Associate or Bachelor's Degree – While not always mandatory, a degree in computer science, computer software engineering, or a related field can be very valuable. It provides a deeper understanding of software development, testing methodologies, and technical concepts.
• Game-Specific Programs – Some schools offer specialized programs in game development or game technology, which can include courses on game testing and quality assurance.
• Online Courses and Certifications – Numerous online platforms offer courses in software testing, quality assurance, and related areas.

Develop Relevant Skills

• Technical Proficiency – A solid understanding of computer hardware (CPUs, GPUs, RAM, etc.) and software (operating systems, drivers) is crucial. Learn how these components interact and how they can affect game performance.
• Testing Methodologies – Familiarize yourself with different testing techniques, such as functional testing, performance testing, and compatibility testing.
• Bug Tracking Tools – Learn how to use bug tracking software (like Jira or Trello) to report and manage issues effectively.
• Communication Skills – Clear and concise communication, both verbal and written, is vital for conveying technical information to developers.
• Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills – Develop abilities to think critically and systematically and to identify the root cause of problems and suggest potential solutions.
• Attention to Detail – A keen eye for detail is essential for spotting even the smallest glitches or inconsistencies.
• Patience and Perseverance – Testing can be a repetitive and time-consuming process, demanding patience and perseverance.
• Adaptability – The gaming industry is constantly evolving, so testers need to be adaptable and willing to learn new technologies and techniques.

Gain Experience

• Beta Testing – Participate in beta testing programs for games. This is a great way to gain experience in testing and provide feedback to developers.
• Personal Projects – Create your own small testing projects. For example, you could test the compatibility of different software applications on various systems.
• Internships – Look for internships in game development studios or QA companies. This can provide valuable hands-on experience and networking opportunities.

Build a Portfolio
Document your work. Keep records of your testing projects, including the issues you found and how you reported them. Create a portfolio that highlights your technical knowledge, testing skills, and communication abilities.

Network and Continue Learning
Network with game developers and other testers at industry events and conferences. Participate in workshops as new trends and technologies emerge.

Certifications
There are various relevant certifications that can help game compatibility testers boost their credentials and demonstrate their skills. Here are the most valuable ones:

Software Testing Certifications

• ISTQB Certified Tester Game Testing (CT-GaMe) – This is the most relevant certification for game testers, offered by the International Software Testing Qualifications Board (ISTQB), a globally recognized organization. It focuses on the specific knowledge and skills needed for game testing, covering concepts like risk assessment, test design, and testing approaches unique to games.
• ISTQB Certified Tester Foundation Level (CTFL) – This is the foundational certification for all software testers, including those specializing in games. It covers the basic principles of software testing, testing methodologies, and the software development lifecycle. It's a prerequisite for the CT-GaMe certification.
• ISTQB Certified Tester Performance Testing (CT-PT) – This certification provides knowledge of the principal aspects of performance testing, including technical aspects, method-based aspects, and organizational aspects. Specifically pertaining to performance testing, it covers areas such as basic concepts, measurements, activities, tasks, and tools.
• ISTQB Certified Tester Mobile Application Testing (CT-MAT) – This certification provides an insight into methods, techniques, and tools a professional may use to test mobile applications. It covers the required mobile project activities, roles, methods, and methodologies.
• ASTQB Mobile Testing Certification – Administered by the American Software Testing Qualifications Board, this credential focuses on mobile application testing, relevant for mobile game compatibility.
• Certified Software Test Professional Associate Level (CSTP-A) / Certified Software Test Professional Practitioner Level (CSTP-P) / Certified Software Test Professional Master Level (CSTP-M) – Offered by the International Institute for Software Testing, this series of certifications provides a structured approach to software testing, including game testing principles.

Gaming-Specific Certifications

• iGaming Academy QA and Game Testing Certification – This credential focuses on QA processes specific to online gaming and casino games.
• Unity Certified User: Programmer / Unity Certified Associate: Game Developer – These certifications demonstrate familiarity with Unity, which is useful for compatibility testing in Unity-based games.
• Unreal Engine Certified Developer – This credential is helpful if testing games built in Unreal Engine, a 3D computer graphics game engine developed by Epic Games. It can help testers understand compatibility issues.

Hardware- and Platform-Specific Certifications

• PlayStation, Xbox, or Nintendo Developer Certifications – Game studios often require testers to understand platform-specific guidelines and hardware specs.
• CompTIA A+ Certification – Offered by Comp TIA (Computer Technology Industry Association), this certification covers hardware and software troubleshooting, useful for understanding compatibility issues.

Professional Organizations
In addition to the certifying bodies referenced above in the Certifications section, the following organizations also support the gaming and software testing community:

• International Game Developers Association (IGDA) – The IGDA is the largest non-profit membership organization for game developers of all disciplines, including testers. It offers resources, networking opportunities, and advocacy for game developers worldwide. Membership provides access to local chapters, special interest groups (SIGs), and online forums comprised of testers and other industry professionals.
• Association for Software Testing (AST) – The AST is a professional organization focused on advancing the field of software testing. It provides resources and training, and hosts conferences related to software testing methodologies and best practices, which are valuable for game compatibility testers.
• Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences (AIAS) – The AIAS is dedicated to the advancement and recognition of the interactive arts, including video games. It hosts the annual D.I.C.E. (‘Design Innovate Communicate Entertain’) Awards, commonly referred to as the video game equivalent of the Academy Awards.