As technology continues to advance and video games become more immersive and sophisticated, it’s no surprise that game developers have become increasingly sought after. However, with so many talented individuals competing for the same jobs, what was the salary of game developers in 2017? In this article, we will explore the various factors that determine a game developer’s salary, as well as provide some real-life examples to help you understand how much you can expect to earn.
Factors That Determine Game Developer Salaries
There are several factors that determine the salary of game developers in 2017 and beyond. These include:
Experience Level
One of the biggest factors that will impact a game developer’s salary is their level of experience. More experienced developers with advanced degrees, such as a Master’s or Ph.D., may earn significantly more than those who are just starting out in the field. In fact, according to Glassdoor, the average base salary for a game developer with 1-2 years of experience is around $70,000 per year, while a game developer with 5-9 years of experience can expect to earn an average of $104,000 per year.
Skill Set
The skill set of a game developer is another important factor that will determine their salary. Developers who have expertise in programming languages such as C++, Python, and Java, or those with experience in graphic design or sound engineering, may earn more than the average game developer. Additionally, developers who specialize in certain types of games, such as virtual reality or mobile development, may also earn more due to the high demand for these types of games.
Location
The location of a game developer is another factor that will impact their salary. Developers working in cities with a high cost of living, such as San Francisco, New York City, and Los Angeles, may earn significantly more than those working in less expensive locations. According to Glassdoor, the average base salary for a game developer in San Francisco is $129,000 per year, while the average salary for a game developer in Dallas is around $73,000 per year.
Size of Company
The size of the company where a game developer works is another factor that will impact their salary. Developers working for large companies such as EA or Ubisoft may earn more than those working for smaller independent studios. According to Glassdoor, the average base salary for a game developer at Ubisoft is $120,000 per year, while the average salary for a game developer at a small startup is around $75,000 per year.
Real-Life Examples of Game Developer Salaries in 2017
John Carmack, Founder of id Software
John Carmack is the founder of id Software, which is responsible for creating popular games such as Doom and Wolfenstein 3D. According to Forbes, Carmack’s net worth was estimated to be around $240 million in 2017. While this number includes his wealth from other sources, such as stock options and investments, it still provides an idea of the potential earnings for game developers who achieve success in the industry.
Shigeru Miyamoto, Creator of Super Mario
Shigeru Miyamoto is the creator of Super Mario, one of the most successful video game franchises of all time.
