How to hire game developers?
In the incredibly competitive game development field, having the right team can determine whether a game becomes a major success or a significant loss. Developing games involves a mix of skills in programming, design, art, sound, and project management in a complex, multi-faceted industry. A game's triumph relies on a brilliant concept and the team's skill in executing it flawlessly.
The numbers don’t lie. Between 2018 and 2028 the need for game developers is expected to grow by 21% due to the industry's expansion and the importance of skilled professionals. This dynamic underscores the need for a competent team that can turn creative and engaging gaming experiences into reality.
The numbers don’t lie. Between 2018 and 2028 the need for game developers is expected to grow by 21% due to the industry's expansion and the importance of skilled professionals. This dynamic underscores the need for a competent team that can turn creative and engaging gaming experiences into reality.
Planning to develop your first game
The global gaming market has consistently grown over the years, and it is expected that revenues will reach of US$242.39 billion by the end of 2024. This trend is expected to carry on for another decade with the compound annual growth rate reaching 13.4%. Advancements in technology, mobile gaming, and the widespread acceptance of e-sports all significantly contribute to this surge. As the industry thrives, more individuals and studios are entering the field, eager to develop the next big hit.
Many aspiring developers wonder how to start a game development project effectively. The key to those initial steps is flexible planning.
Many aspiring developers wonder how to start a game development project effectively. The key to those initial steps is flexible planning.
Pre-Production
Pre-Production
This stage includes developing your game idea, crafting a game design document (GDD), and outlining the project's scale. This is the stage where you decide the specific scope of game development work, whether it's coding, creating assets, or designing levels. It is also the moment to select your game development tools, regardless if you are using Unity, Unreal Engine, or a different engine. You’ll also need to consider middleware for tasks such as physics (e.g., Havok, PhysX), audio (e.g., FMOD, Wwise), and networking (e.g., Photon, RakNet).
Documentation is crucial at this stage. The Game Design Document (GDD) guides your game development journey—it assists in maintaining idea coherence and team vision comprehension.
Documentation is crucial at this stage. The Game Design Document (GDD) guides your game development journey—it assists in maintaining idea coherence and team vision comprehension.
Production
Production
Once you have a solid plan, the production phase begins. Whether your interest lies in mobile apps or traditional computer entertainment, production is when the most serious work gets done.
This phase involves a cross-disciplinary collaboration among developers, artists, and designers to bring the game to life. Game developer work at this stage involves coding, adding art, and integrating game mechanics. The coding team begins by setting up the project's architecture, including the game loop, input handling, rendering pipeline, and physics calculations. Artists start creating the game's visual elements, including models, textures, animations, and UI components. Designers build the game levels, integrating art assets and scripting gameplay events. Audio engineers create or integrate sound effects, music, and voiceovers.
During this phase, you'll work closely with artists, designers, and the game programmer team to ensure that all aspects of the game come together seamlessly. Regular reviews and iterations will help keep the project on track and aligned with your goals.
This phase involves a cross-disciplinary collaboration among developers, artists, and designers to bring the game to life. Game developer work at this stage involves coding, adding art, and integrating game mechanics. The coding team begins by setting up the project's architecture, including the game loop, input handling, rendering pipeline, and physics calculations. Artists start creating the game's visual elements, including models, textures, animations, and UI components. Designers build the game levels, integrating art assets and scripting gameplay events. Audio engineers create or integrate sound effects, music, and voiceovers.
During this phase, you'll work closely with artists, designers, and the game programmer team to ensure that all aspects of the game come together seamlessly. Regular reviews and iterations will help keep the project on track and aligned with your goals.
Testing
Testing
After your game becomes playable, the testing phase begins. This step is essential in the game development process. Testing ensures that your game is bug-free, functions effectively on multiple platforms, and provides a seamless player experience.
It's crucial to conduct comprehensive testing on all intended platforms to identify any issues before release. Involving both in-house testers and early players can provide valuable feedback, helping refine your game and ensuring its success.
It's crucial to conduct comprehensive testing on all intended platforms to identify any issues before release. Involving both in-house testers and early players can provide valuable feedback, helping refine your game and ensuring its success.
Post-Production
Post-Production
The final stage is post-production, where you prepare for the game's release and plan for ongoing support. This phase includes tasks such as marketing, distribution, and post-launch updates. Your game will continue to require upkeep even after it hits the market. Continuous updates and engagement with your player base can significantly impact your game's success.
When you're ready to move forward, evaluate your resources carefully and consider hiring a skilled game development team who can help bring your vision to life. With the right people around and a clear understanding of the process, you can navigate all possible challenges.
When you're ready to move forward, evaluate your resources carefully and consider hiring a skilled game development team who can help bring your vision to life. With the right people around and a clear understanding of the process, you can navigate all possible challenges.
Why Technology Matters in Hiring
One critical step that often gets overlooked is deciding on the right technology stack for your game. Different developers specialize in various tools and programming languages, therefore your choice of technology will influence the kind of talent you need to hire.
Unity for Game Development
Unity for Game Development
Starting with Unity for game development. Unity is one of the most widely used game engines, known for its flexibility and extensive asset store. Unity supports 2D and 3D games, making it a go-to choice for many developers. Unity primarily uses C# game engine scripting, favored for its ease of use and efficiency.
Unreal Engine and C++
Unreal Engine and C++
As the backbone of Unreal technology games, C++ is a powerful language often used in performance-critical games, especially in consoles and PC games. C++ game development gives developers precise control over system resources, allowing them to design visually impressive and performance-focused games. The integration of C++ enables greater customization and optimization in Unreal, making it ideal for projects where performance is crucial.
Godot
Godot
Godot, a popular open-source engine, is known for its lightweight features and user-friendly design. Its capabilities extend to various projects, supporting 2D and 3D game development. Godot uses GDScript for its scripting language, as well as offering support for game engine scripting in C++ and C#. It is a great option for developers who value adaptability and development guided by the community.
Python and Game Development
Python and Game Development
Python game engine solutions are beginner-friendly as well, making them an excellent option for indie developers. Despite not being typically associated with gaming, Python has tools like Pygame that are great for creating prototypes and educational games.
Java for Mobile Games
Java for Mobile Games
Java game development is still a common option for creating mobile and casual games. Its ability to work on different platforms is a major benefit, enabling developers to reach various devices with only small code adjustments.
JavaScript for Web-Based Games
JavaScript for Web-Based Games
For web-based games, game engine in JavaScript frameworks like Phaser and Babylon.js offer robust solutions. These engines allow developers to create games that run directly in web browsers, making them ideal for cross-platform projects.
And that is not the end: the options for game development are endless. So coming back to the start, first, you need to get a clear picture of what the game will be about and then hire game developers with needed skills and shared vision.
And that is not the end: the options for game development are endless. So coming back to the start, first, you need to get a clear picture of what the game will be about and then hire game developers with needed skills and shared vision.
Freelancers vs Game Development Outsourcing studios
When you’re looking to hire game developers for your project, there are two primary options: working with freelance game developers or partnering with a game development outsourcing studio. Both approaches have pros and cons, and understanding these differences can help you make the best decision for your project.
You can find freelancers on many platforms where you can check out their portfolios, view their work history, and read reviews from clients. This choice is frequently less expensive, which makes it attractive to individuals with limited funds. Yet, cheaper prices do not always result in improved dependability.
When you hire a video game developer freelance, you're essentially bringing in individual pieces of talent. Each freelancer has their unique approach to how they work, communicate, and finish projects. While it may have benefits for certain duties, it can also lead to challenges in upholding uniformity and unity. There is a chance that these individual components may not line up, leading to a project that is fragmented rather than unified.
Another factor to take into account is the accessibility and dedication of freelance workers. A freelance game developer might be juggling multiple projects simultaneously, prioritizing them based on their preferences rather than their deadlines. This lack of dedicated focus can impact your project's timeline and quality.
On the other hand, partnering with a game development company offers a more structured and reliable approach. While this option may be more expensive than hiring freelancers, the investment often pays off in terms of quality, consistency, and peace of mind.
By employing game developers from an external studio, you acquire a united group of skilled professionals who work together efficiently. These studios have effective procedures, clear communication channels, and a proven history of finishing projects on time and within budget.
Outsourcing studios offer complete game development services, ensuring that skilled professionals manage every aspect of your project. This level of coordination is particularly important for complex projects where uniformity and teamwork are essential. A studio provides a unified vision and implementation while allowing you to supervise and make necessary adjustments during the process.
You can find freelancers on many platforms where you can check out their portfolios, view their work history, and read reviews from clients. This choice is frequently less expensive, which makes it attractive to individuals with limited funds. Yet, cheaper prices do not always result in improved dependability.
When you hire a video game developer freelance, you're essentially bringing in individual pieces of talent. Each freelancer has their unique approach to how they work, communicate, and finish projects. While it may have benefits for certain duties, it can also lead to challenges in upholding uniformity and unity. There is a chance that these individual components may not line up, leading to a project that is fragmented rather than unified.
Another factor to take into account is the accessibility and dedication of freelance workers. A freelance game developer might be juggling multiple projects simultaneously, prioritizing them based on their preferences rather than their deadlines. This lack of dedicated focus can impact your project's timeline and quality.
On the other hand, partnering with a game development company offers a more structured and reliable approach. While this option may be more expensive than hiring freelancers, the investment often pays off in terms of quality, consistency, and peace of mind.
By employing game developers from an external studio, you acquire a united group of skilled professionals who work together efficiently. These studios have effective procedures, clear communication channels, and a proven history of finishing projects on time and within budget.
Outsourcing studios offer complete game development services, ensuring that skilled professionals manage every aspect of your project. This level of coordination is particularly important for complex projects where uniformity and teamwork are essential. A studio provides a unified vision and implementation while allowing you to supervise and make necessary adjustments during the process.
WHY DO YOU NEED TO OUTSOURCE GAME DEVELOPMENT?
For small companies, outsourcing can be a game-changer, providing access to professional talent and expertise that might otherwise be out of reach. Outsourcing studios bring a wealth of experience to the table, often guiding smaller teams through the complexities of the game development process. Even large studios frequently consider game developers for hire from outsourcing firms to save resources and let their core teams focus on new projects and innovations.
So, here are just a few reasons why you should hire game developers from an outsourcing studio.
So, here are just a few reasons why you should hire game developers from an outsourcing studio.
- Focus on your business
- Reduce risks
- Competitive advantage.
- Save on labor and operational costs.
- Access to new resources and skills gained.
HOW DO YOU HIRE THE BEST GAME DEVELOPERS?
If you're reading this article, you have already found the proper studio and can schedule a call with us immediately. Our qualified game developers have vast experience that allows us to help both world-renowned gaming companies and indie studios create great video games.
Before searching for an outsourcing studio, state your needs. Usually, you will need such professionals:
Depending on your game development needs, outsourcing studios can delegate specific tasks through short-term or long-term contracts. A client-oriented studio will advise you on the correct number of people, timelines, and budgets to get things done.
Choosing a studio isn't difficult if you follow some simple steps.
Here’s a checklist that could help you hire the best game dev company:
Finally, you won’t know for sure until you try. The best way to ensure the outsourcing studio is a good fit - is to schedule a call. Real-time talk is the complete step in the search process.
Before searching for an outsourcing studio, state your needs. Usually, you will need such professionals:
- Developers (gameplay, mechanics, UI, back-end, game programming, etc.);
- Game designers (system designers, technical, game writers, UI specialists, etc.);
- Artists (animators, 2D/3D character artists, environment artists, prop makers, etc.).
Depending on your game development needs, outsourcing studios can delegate specific tasks through short-term or long-term contracts. A client-oriented studio will advise you on the correct number of people, timelines, and budgets to get things done.
Choosing a studio isn't difficult if you follow some simple steps.
Here’s a checklist that could help you hire the best game dev company:
- Market Activity: Ensure developers have a balanced workload—busy but available.
- Experience: Prioritize developers with proven gaming industry experience.
- Portfolio: Check relevant past projects to gauge their suitability.
- Team Structure: Understand the team and their workflow before committing.
- Work Process: Clarify their development approach and timelines.
- Communication: Ensure they provide regular updates and are responsive.
- Guarantees: Confirm protections for confidentiality and project integrity.
- Pricing: Look for transparent pricing with clear deliverables.
- Customer Reviews: Rely on neutral reviews for an unbiased perspective.
Finally, you won’t know for sure until you try. The best way to ensure the outsourcing studio is a good fit - is to schedule a call. Real-time talk is the complete step in the search process.
Outsourcing models
The amount of tasks you want to outsource depends on where you are in the production process and what your needs and resources are. There are different outsourcing models that you can apply to your game-making process. One model starts working right with the concept and storyboarding stage. Another lets you collaborate with an internally qualified team to work on software development, game engines, quality assurance, sound design, or certain parts of the game world.
Let's take a closer look at those models when you’re looking to hire game developers.
Let's take a closer look at those models when you’re looking to hire game developers.
Full-cycle development
Full-cycle development
You provide a concept, storyboard, and pre-production elements to your external team. Meanwhile, they handle all the art, sound design, programming, and QA—everything that gets you to the release stage. This model is the most expensive but can be a good option for companies lacking the in-house resources to manage the entire game development process. For example, on request, we built the TryHards game from scratch.
Specialized programming languages
Specialized programming languages
Game production often uses one of two core programming languages—Unity/C# and Unreal/C++. An outsourcing studio with expertise in these languages will ensure the development team meets your technology needs.
Art outsourcing
Art outsourcing
The game world contains thousands of art assets: characters, scenery, locations, weapons, prizes, and many other graphics types. Provide the outsourcing studio with a list of asset needs and a brand style guide, and watch the process. This model is a great solution for teams with strong programming skills.
Co-development
Co-development involves in-depth collaboration between your team and an outsourced development team, providing a great experience and access to new resources and skills. This model is ideal for companies with technical expertise but insufficient resources.
With Argentics Game Studio, you'll receive comprehensive support at every stage of game development—from initial concept and efficient production to post-release assistance. Contact us, and we'll ensure your project succeeds!
With Argentics Game Studio, you'll receive comprehensive support at every stage of game development—from initial concept and efficient production to post-release assistance. Contact us, and we'll ensure your project succeeds!
FAQ
Start by brainstorming concepts that excite you, drawing inspiration from existing games, movies, books, or even personal experiences. Consider current trends in gaming and think about how you can innovate or add a unique twist. Collaborating with others or engaging with the gaming community can also spark creative ideas.
The cost of making a video game varies widely depending on the game's scope, complexity, platform, and team size. Indie games can cost anywhere from $50,000 to $500,000, while AAA titles often require budgets of $10 million or more.
Begin by defining your game concept and creating a game design document. Learn the necessary skills or assemble a team with expertise in programming, design, and art. Choose a suitable game engine (e.g., Unity, Unreal) and start building a prototype. Iteration, testing, and refining your game are crucial steps in the process.
You can hire a game programmer on freelance platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, or Toptal, or through specialized game development job boards such as Game Developer (formerly Gamasutra) and ArtStation. Alternatively, consider reaching out to game development outsourcing studios, like Argentics, for more comprehensive support.
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