Games
Gameplay programmer
Also known as: Games programmer, Gameplay developer
What does a gameplay programmer do?
Gameplay programmers write the code for the interactions that make a game fun to play. While lead designers decide on the combat, gameplay programmers make it happen.
They work with level designers to see what needs to be done to make the gameplay work. They write the rules that govern what objects do and pay attention to balancing and tuning of the way the game plays. They also fix bugs and optimise the game for playing.
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What is a gameplay programmer good at?
- Programming: be highly proficient in programming, finesse levels and seamlessly integrate scripts
- Knowledge of gameplay: imagine the best gameplay or game mechanics for the experience
- Knowledge of game engines: understand games engines and their abilities and limitations
- Collaboration: work closely with the lead designer, gameplay programmer, AI programmer, art department and other programmers
- Communication: work with the team, establish and document best practices for scripting and delivery of assets
Who does a gameplay programmer work with?
At the start of a game’s development, the gameplay programmer works with the writer and lead designer to figure out what needs to happen in the gameplay. They then work with the other programmers and artists. They also work with the QA technicians to improve the game.
How do you become a gameplay programmer?
To get into gameplay programming, it’s essential to have a degree in game design or computer science and gain some experience in the industry. A generalist programmer is a good place to begin. The most important thing is to demonstrate logical, tidy and efficient coding in any programming you might do.
At school or college:
If you want to go to university, take A-levels or Highers in maths, physics and computer science. Or you might want to take a level 3 vocational qualification in computing. Look at what your local college offers and the qualifications offered by training providers like Pearson, NCC Education and T Levels.
Get a degree:
Get a degree in computer science or have a look at ScreenSkills’ list of recommended courses in games. We recognise courses with our ScreenSkills Select award where they offer training in the relevant software, dedicated time to building a portfolio and have strong links with the games industry.
Build a portfolio:
Make some games or gameplay prototypes. Whatever your route you are going to need to build a portfolio to show to admissions tutors and employers. Go to Build your games portfolio to learn how.
Have a go at modding:
Create your own levels of published games using software toolkits provided as part of these games.
Search for jobs:
If you already have experience as a games programmer or artist, use the UK Games Map to find out if there are games companies near you. Then go to their websites directly and check out their open roles. Look for a generalist programmer or junior programmer role first.
Meet people in the industry:
Go to ScreenSkills’ events, follow your local film office and any local community arts and media organisations and attend their events. Go to how to network well for some tips.
Network online:
Create a LinkedIn profile. See if there’s a Facebook page or other social media group for people making films or videos in your area. Join it and take part. Create a ScreenSkills profile.
Explore ScreenSkills Resources:
ScreenSkills careers information:
The your career hub has a wealth of resources designed to help you start or progress your career.
ScreenSkills e-learning:
ScreenSkills has a suite of free e-learning modules for those who are over 18 which can improve your knowledge. The ScreenSkills Passport modules also prepare you as they are essential for some production roles. Some modules are available for those under 18. For anyone wanting advice about first steps, the Getting into the screen industries modules are very useful.
ScreenSkills skills checklists:
If you would like more detail about the tasks, responsibilities and skills required for many key roles in film and TV drama, children’s TV and unscripted TV you can look at our skills checklists.
You might also be interested in…
Being a gameplay designer, technical animator, graphics programmer, physics programmer, an artificial intelligence (AI) programmer, a virtual reality (VR) programmer, tools engineer, an engine programmer or a network programmer in the games industry. You might also be interested in being a software developer in visual effects (VFX). Alternatively, you could consider a technical director (TD) role in VFX or in the animation industry.
