Why Choose Game Development Over Web Development or Mobile Apps Development

For many, the allure of game development is outweighed by the seemingly more straightforward paths of web or mobile app development. However, nestled within the complex layers of game design lies a unique blend of creative storytelling, technical expertise, and a passion-driven journey. Here, we explore the path that led many to choose game development, highlighting its unique allure and the personal stories behind this decision.

A Personal Journey: From Storytelling to Game Development

My journey as a game developer began with a love for audioplays and stories that took years to cast. The desire to share these narratives in a more engaging and interactive format led me to the world of game development. The concept of game development as a means to tell stories is at the heart of what made me take this career path. Rather than the more traditional web or mobile development, where stories are often secondary, game development allows for deep, immersive storytelling that captivates and engages players in a unique way.

The Pleasure of Gaming and Programming

The decision to become a game developer is often rooted in a love for games themselves and an inherent love for the creative process. As someone who finds programming and gaming equally fascinating, merging these two passions into a career takes a special kind of individual. The combination of creativity, storytelling, and technological prowess is what truly sets game developers apart.

A Career Driven by Passion

Passion reigns supreme when it comes to game development. The drive to bring childhood fantasies to life is a key motivator, but it also requires a deep understanding of computer science, design, and development. It’s a career that demands a unique blend of skills and an unwavering commitment to learning and growth. Game developers must stay ahead of the curve, constantly adapting to new technologies and trends, and continuously pushing the boundaries of what is possible within the realm of interactive entertainment.

A Personal Experience: A Journey Through Multiple Careers

My career path has been anything but linear. Starting in the accountancy field, I quickly moved to the software industry, where my journey took numerous detours before finally landing in game development. After working for an accountancy firm and a software house that went bust in just five months, I co-founded a games creation firm in the mid-1980s. Our initial push into original game creation was short-lived; we didn’t excel as publishers but found success in converting games from the Commodore 64 to other platforms like the Amstrad MSX and ZX Spectrum. This venture lasted for two and a half years until we parted ways.

The idea to transition into postal games didn’t materialize, and I ended up working for a game conversion customer, but unfortunately, they were not reliable. A year later, I joined a UK-based postal game firm and within two and a half years, I was able to develop two postal games, Warlord and Quest, which continue to be run by the company today, albeit now for web distribution.

After that, I worked as a software engineer for testing avionics software on Typhoons, followed by a stint as a designer for MicroProse, the developers of the Civilization series. However, the corporate changes at MicroProse led to the closure of a significant portion of their U.K. offices. My career then took a more varied path, including working as a taxi driver, creating trading software, mobile apps, and now property tech, along with my ongoing side interest in game development.

The conclusion is clear: you have the freedom to choose any path that aligns with your passions and interests. Whether you are drawn to the world of games, web development, or mobile apps, each career path has its unique benefits.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a career is a deeply personal decision. However, the journey of becoming a game developer can be incredibly rewarding for those with a passion for both storytelling and technology. The unique challenges and opportunities in game development make it a compelling choice for those looking to combine creativity and technical expertise. So, if you find yourself drawn to games and the joy of telling stories, then game development might just be the path for you!