Games
Virtual reality (VR) programmer
Also known as: Augmented reality (AR) programmer, Extended reality (XR) programmer, Mixed reality (MR) programmer, VR developer, VR engineer
What does a VR programmer do?
VR programmers write the code for cutting-edge game development. VR, in which a player puts on a headset or goggles and has the sensation of actually stepping into another world, offers a deeper sense of immersion than video games.
But for all its immersive potential, VR programmers have significant challenges to overcome to make the most of the technological possibilities.
VR games can cause motion sickness for a variety of reasons. Lag between the player’s movements and the game’s response is one of the most common causes of motion sickness, so maintaining a high, stable frame rate is critical in VR games. VR programmers are also responsible for researching and implementing a range of other motion sickness-reducing mechanisms.
There are significant challenges for VR programmers. And significant opportunities too.
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What’s a VR programmer good at?
- Programming: write efficient code that can create the desired gameplay on the game platform
- Knowledge of virtual gameplay: imagine gameplay in a virtual world, understanding what works and what doesn’t, know how to mitigate issues like motion sickness
- Innovation: imagine solutions that have never been thought of before - VR is still a developing field and there is no “correct way” to implement VR games
- Knowledge of game platforms: understand the possibilities and constraints of mobile and other platforms
- Collaboration: share ideas with other programmers and designers working in an innovative way
Who does a VR programmer work with?
VR programmers work closely with the lead designer, gameplay programmer, art department and other VR programmers.
How do you become a VR programmer?
This is not an entry-level position. Become a games programmer first and then move into VR. Look at the generalist programmer job profile for details of how to do this.
At school or college:
If you want to go to university, take A-levels or Highers in art and science such as maths, physics, computer science, graphic design, graphic communication or art and design. 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, UAL, NCC Education and T Levels.
Get a degree:
Most people in the games industry have got degrees. Get a degree in, physics, programming, game development or advanced mathematics. Or have a look at ScreenSkills’ list of recommended courses in games and select one in programming. 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:
Create work that you can show off to employers. This is essential. Go to Build your games portfolio to learn how.
Start modding:
Create levels of a game using software provided by the publishers.
Try VR:
Play VR games and experiences and get used to motion sickness and response time-related issues. Familiarise yourself with the ways other games mitigate these issues.
Search for jobs:
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 one as a generalist programmer 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 lead games designer, user experience (UX) designer, graphics programmer, gameplay programmer, physics programmer, artificial intelligence (AI) 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.
