Have you ever wondered how much video game testers make per month? It's a question that many people who are interested in the gaming industry ask. The answer is not straightforward, as there are several factors that can impact a game tester's salary. In this article, we will explore the various factors that affect a game tester's monthly income and give you an idea of how much they typically make.
What Does a Game Tester Do?
A game tester is responsible for testing video games before they are released to the public. They play through the game to identify any bugs, glitches, or other issues that need to be fixed before the game is released. Game testers also provide feedback to the game development team to help improve the overall quality of the game.
Factors That Affect a Game Tester's Salary
There are several factors that can impact a game tester's salary. Some of the most important factors include:
- Experience
- Education
- Location
- Type of employer
- Type of game being tested
Experience
Game testers with more experience typically earn higher salaries than those who are just starting out. Experienced testers have a better understanding of what to look for and how to report issues, which makes them more valuable to game development companies.
Education
While a degree is not required to become a game tester, having a degree in a related field such as computer science or game design can increase your earning potential. Employers may also prefer candidates with formal education in the field.
Location
The location of the game development company can also impact the salary of a game tester. Game testers who work in major cities or technology hubs may earn more than those who work in smaller towns or rural areas. The cost of living in the area can also affect the salary of a game tester.
Type of Employer
The type of employer can also impact a game tester's salary. Game testers who work for large, established companies may earn more than those who work for smaller startups. Government agencies and non-profit organizations may also offer lower salaries than private companies.
Type of Game Being Tested
The type of game being tested can also impact a game tester's salary. Games with complex graphics, gameplay, and storylines may require more testing time, which can increase the salary of game testers. Games that are less complex may require less testing time and therefore a lower salary.
How Much Do Game Testers Make?
The average salary for a game tester in the United States is around $49,000 per year, or $4,083 per month. However, salaries can range from as low as $22,000 per year to as high as $88,000 per year depending on the factors mentioned above.
Entry-Level Game Testers
Entry-level game testers typically earn around $22,000 to $37,000 per year, or $1,833 to $3,083 per month. These testers are usually just starting out in the industry and may not have much experience or formal education.
Experienced Game Testers
Experienced game testers with several years of experience can earn around $56,000 to $88,000 per year, or $4,667 to $7,333 per month. These testers typically have a lot of experience and may have formal education or certifications.
Conclusion
The salary of a game tester can vary greatly depending on several factors, including experience, education, location, type of employer, and type of game being tested. While the average salary for a game tester is around $49,000 per year, salaries can range from as low as $22,000 per year to as high as $88,000 per year. If you're interested in becoming a game tester, it's important to consider these factors when evaluating potential job opportunities.
