I want to break into the game industry any tips on where to start?

[praygon]

So recently i made a decision for a long time iv floated about not knowing what i wanted to do or where my future would lead after doing a bit of soul searching and research (as well as watching quite a few episodes of extra credits which is an amazingly good show by the way) iv decided i want to get involved in the video game industry ether as a developer or a director but i also love the idea of being a writer or programer so i haven't written them out, I know it wont be easy but im determined to spread the same joy games have bought me to others.

But onto the point next year im going to apply for a place on a computer science course at university but other than that im lost on how to get into the industry where do i begin? I figured here would be a great place to ask so if anyone could even give the slightest bit of information id be hugely grateful

Also if it helps im from England and i have absolutely no drawing or 3D modeling talent at all so a graphical role really wouldn't work.

 

[Limecake]

This course you're taking is it designed to be for video games? Don't get me wrong a comp sci degree will go a long way but if you're serious about getting into the industry a course specific to Video Games could be a better option.

Remember actually 'breaking in' to the industry is going to be your biggest hurdle, The video game industry is surprisingly small so it really becomes all about who you know. Going to a school that is specific to video games will give you the chance to not only meet people already working in the industry but people who will be working in the industry shortly.

I'd also like to point out that you are forgetting about sound, music and voice acting which are all viable options if you are looking to get involved with video games. While it might require more of an 'ear' than the other departments.

just be friendly and outgoing to everyone you meet in the industry, be genuine and interested in these people. You never know who'll have a job opening next.

 

[Zantos]

This course you're taking is it designed to be for video games? Don't get me wrong a comp sci degree will go a long way but if you're serious about getting into the industry a course specific to Video Games could be a better option.

This is not true! At least not in England, there's only a handful of accredited degrees in good old Britannia, and even those aren't particularly good for getting into the industry.

CompSci is a good option. When you go, tell your tutor that the games industry is what you want to end up in and they can advise you on the right modules to take to develop the skills you need and figure out what sort of job you want to go for. It also gives you plenty of leeway if after 3 years you decide you fancy pursuing something else.

Next, take up a hobby making little things, just something to pad your CV out with. Game Maker 8 is a very basic but easy to get into game making program that'll help you set up simple things, nothing too complicated, but enough to get you a feel for it.

Mr Limecake is definitely right about knowing people though. Go to conventions and expos, meet people. Chat, be friendly, maybe even have a few business cards if you make some good things in game maker and put them on a site. That way when you submit a CV they might remember you as that nice guy at E3, or the guy that made the flash game they couldn't stop playing instead of just being a name on a bit of paper.

It'll take a good slog, but if you're dedicated then it'll be a piece of pie to get the ball rolling.

 

[TCPirate]

I'm 16 and I've decided that that game designing is my future. I've researched around and started to learn C# coding, starting to dabble with Autodesk 3DS Max and designing my own Indie game.

Most companies want you to know all aspects of game designing and (from what i've researched) for you to have a game released on XBLA or Steam (Bethesda do, anyways.) here is something you should check out http://jobs.zenimax.com/
This is the company that owns bethesda and they normally have job openings. I'm not saying apply (by any means) but it gives you a good idea of the sort of stuff you need to do before a Triple A studio will hire you.

Comp. Sci is exactly what I want to study in university and it's extremely versatile subject. It will take you a long way.

All I can say is, Start off with small flash games (remake pong, block breaker, space invaders) etc. on your own (Should really only take you a day or 2 to do this) and work your way up. I recommend the XNA creators club. They give excellent tips and tutorials on where to start with making a game of your own (if you're willing to pay a membership fee (It is totally worth it!))

I wish you the best of luck in your future and hope you get where you want to be!