If you're a video-game enthusiast -- meaning you spend most of your free time playing video games, or standing in line waiting for the latest video-game system -- you might want to consider making a career out of your hobby.
Video gaming is one of the fastest-growing industries today. And companies are champing at the bit to hire qualified, knowledgeable employees. Every year, more than 500 games hit store shelves, and video-game studios work overtime to find skilled gamers to produce the next hit game.
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However, the video-gaming industry is not all "fun and games." A career in this field can be fast-paced and high pressure.
"[For some companies,] there's a lot of burnout," Jason Della Rocca, a former executive director for a chapter of the International Game Developers Association, said in a Monster.com report.
But if you thrive in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment, then this might be a good career for you. Take a look at these various positions to see which one is the best fit for your skills (originally published by the International Game Developers Association):
Audio: Average salary, $94,412
The audio components of video games are quickly becoming just as important as the visual aspect. Composers, sound engineers/designers and audio programmers stand to make an impact on the industry.
Search for audio programming jobs.
Design: Average salary, $54,000
Designers are responsible for the playability and "fun factor" of the game. Designers write, diagram and document the details of the game. A team of designers works together to create elements of the player experience.
Search for graphic designer jobs.
Production: Average salary, $73,000
Production is one of the most difficult roles to describe, because there are many definitions of this position. A producer can lead and support the project simultaneously. It's a challenging role, with big rewards.
Programming: Average salary, $95,300
If you're new to the video-game industry, you'll probably want to start out as a junior programmer. You first have to demonstrate your talent, ability to code and finish projects on time.
Search for computer programmer jobs.
Visual arts: Average salary, $54,000
Along with the film industry, the gaming industry is one of the best places to expand your career as an artist. Traditional hand skills and digital know-how are required.
Search for jobs in visual arts.
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