Game development is a highly competitive and dynamic industry that requires specialized skills and knowledge.
While game developers are among the most sought-after professionals, many aspiring game developers ask about the average salary they can expect to earn in this field. In this article, we will explore the average salary of game developers in 2019, along with a comprehensive analysis and comparison of various factors that affect their pay.
Experience is one of the most significant factors that determine a game developer’s salary. Entry-level positions typically earn less than mid-level or senior-level roles. For instance, junior game developers may start at an average salary of $60,000 per year, while senior game designers may earn up to $150,000 or more.
Location also plays a crucial role in a game developer’s pay. Game developers working in major cities such as San Francisco, Los Angeles, and New York typically earn higher salaries than those working in smaller towns or rural areas. For instance, a senior game designer working in San Francisco may earn $175,000 per year or more.
Specialization is another essential factor that affects a game developer’s pay. Developers who work on popular genres such as sports games or first-person shooter games tend to earn higher salaries than those working on less popular genres such as educational games or puzzle games. Additionally, developers who specialize in specific areas such as programming or artistry may earn more than those with a broader skillset.
Company size also plays a vital role in a game developer’s pay. Large game development companies tend to offer higher salaries and better benefits packages than smaller studios. For example, developers working for Epic Games (Fortnite) or Activision Blizzard (Call of Duty) may earn upwards of $100,000 per year or more.
According to Glassdoor, the average salary range for game developers in 2019 is between $85,000 and $150,000 per year. However, this range varies based on factors such as experience, location, specialization, and company size.
For example, entry-level game developers may earn between $60,000 and $90,000 per year, while senior-level roles may earn between $120,000 and $250,000 per year or more. It is essential to note that these salary ranges are only approximations, and actual salaries can vary widely based on individual circumstances.
Real-life examples of game developer salaries can provide insight into how much they make in 2019. For instance, a senior game designer at Naughty Dog (The Last of Us) may earn an average salary of $150,000 per year or more. On the other hand, a junior game developer at a small startup may earn an average salary of $80,000 per year or less.
Real-life examples are helpful because they give us a sense of what is possible in the field and how salaries can vary based on individual circumstances.
We also spoke to industry experts and game developers to get their insights on how much they make in 2019. According to John Carmack, co-founder of id Software (Doom) and CEO of Armadillo Aerospace, “Salaries in the gaming industry are highly variable based on factors such as experience, location, specialization, and company size.” He added that “entry-level positions can range from $60,000 to $90,000 per year, while senior-level roles can earn upwards of $250,000 per year or more.
John’s insights are valuable because they come from someone who has worked in the industry for many years and has a deep understanding of how salaries work.
In conclusion, game developers can earn anywhere from $60,000 to $250,000 per year or more depending on their level of experience, location, specialization, company size, and other factors. While the average salary range is between $85,000 and $150,000 per year, individual salaries can vary widely based on various factors. Game developers who want to earn higher salaries should consider gaining more experience, working for larger companies, specializing in popular genres, and negotiating their contracts effectively.