Whether it’s COD on a gaming console or Minecraft on a mobile, you’ve likely encountered a game in some form or another. Are you interested in the work which goes into these global gaming bestsellers but unsure where to start? We have you covered. Below we look at gaming industry opportunities, the roles within it and the skills you’ll need to break into game design and development.
Written by Grant Longstaff. Published 3 July 2025.
Current overview of game development opportunities
The global gaming industry is growing, and the UK games sector is no different. The British Games Institute (BGI) states gaming is the UK’s fastest growing creative industry, with UK studios contributing over two billion to the UK’s economy. Also, in contrast to some other creative industries, opportunities for careers in gaming can be found across the country with only a reported 20% of industry jobs based in London.
As our technology advances gaming is no longer confined to consoles. Mobile gaming is bigger than ever, and smaller, independent studios are helping meet the growing demand of gamers. Ultimately, this means there are more opportunities, in more areas, and the sector is becoming more accessible for those looking to break into the industry.
What skills do game designers need?
If you’re hoping to pursue a career in games design there are a number of skills you’ll need to hone and develop. You’ll find some skills are more technical, whilst others are more creative, and your role will likely determine the importance placed on such skills. Below we look at some of the most common skills and attributes for the gaming industry.
Technical skills
- Games industry knowledge – having a strong understanding of the most popular game engines, such as Unity or Unreal Engine, and other software used in game design will give you an edge.
- Programming – proficiency in one or more programming languages is an excellent starting point.
- Artificial Intelligence – knowledge of AI can help with decision making and NPC behaviour.
- Optimisation – Another essential skill for many careers in computer science which can help ensure games run smoothly and efficiently.
- Algorithms – algorithms can be used to help solve problems and shape how elements of a game move, respond and interact with one another.
Creative skills
Imagination – understanding story and character development, worldbuilding, dialogue and sound design can be useful and help you bring game environments to life.
Problem solving – many careers in IT have an element of problem solving. Gaming is no different. By understanding problems and knowing how to solve them, you can generate puzzles, in game challenges and help structure level design.
Innovative thinking – this can help with idea generation and help influence many aspects of game creation.
Collaboration – Games are often created by a team, so you’ll also need excellent communication, teamwork and time management skills.
Do you need a degree to become a games designer?
Whilst there are no set entry requirements for a career in games design, you’ll likely find most employers require you to have a degree in a field such as games design, computer science or an IT related subject.
We recognise many students have an interest in a career in the gaming industry and we created a number of optional modules – such as Computer Graphics, Computer Animation and Visual Effects and Games and Interactive Systems – for our BSc in Computer Science to reflect this. You’ll also develop many other skills, like programming and project management, which would be desirable in the industry.
Different careers in game development
Game designer
Game designers are responsible for creating the core concept of a game, which might cover everything from the narrative and characters to the game mechanics, to produce engaging and immersive games.
Game developer
Game developers help turn an idea into a fully realised game. Often they will write the code for gameplay mechanics and regularly use programming languages. Debugging and optimisation is also a central part of their work.
Game artist
Game artists create the visual elements of a game, which could include everything from characters and the game environment to objects and items. Depending on the game, their work could be rendered in 2D or 3D using tools like Blender, Photoshop and Maya.
App Developer
App developers design and build apps for platforms, such as Android, iOS, and web browsers using programming languages. They code and regularly debug and optimise apps to ensure they work across multiple platforms and devices.
Software engineer
Software engineers design and maintain game systems, including engines and tools. They can help optimise performance and integrate technology to support innovative and seamless gaming experiences.
This list isn’t definitive. There are many more roles within game design and, depending on the studio, your duties and responsibilities may overlap and change as each project progresses. For many, this is one of the biggest appeals of the sector. No day is the same as the next.
Game development can be a competitive industry, but by ensuring you have several skills and working knowledge in a number of areas you make yourself a more desirable and employable candidate to a studio.
If you’re a graduate and considering a career in games design our MSc in Computer Science could set you on the path to success.
