Game graphic designer
Game graphic designers create the visual elements of a game. Game graphic designers design the characters, environments, backgrounds, animations and other graphical details of the game. Their tasks also include creating the colour scheme, lighting and visual effects of the game. Game graphic designers can specialise in 2D or 3D art. They work closely with game designers and other team members to ensure that the visual elements support the game as a whole. The profession requires a visual sense, creativity, collaboration skills and the command of graphics software.
Companies in the game industry and educational institutions offering training in the field.
The game graphic designers must master the use of graphic design software and 3D modelling software. The profession requires an understanding of the principles of designing the visual identity and aesthetics of the game, such as the use of colours, lighting and perspective. You must also be able to create animations and motion graphics to make the game characters and environments feel as authentic as possible.
Creativity and visual perception are important, as game graphic designers must be able to develop original and visually attractive elements that support the theme and story of the game. The work requires drawing skills and knowledge of layout, perspectives, anatomy, architecture, colour palettes and lighting. Education or knowledge in the field of visual arts is an advantage in the work.
Cooperation skills are also essential, as game graphic designers often need to work together with game designers and programmers to ensure that the graphic elements are suitable for the game. Good communication skills are needed, for example, in describing problems and other reporting. The work requires initiative, diligence and perseverance. English skills are particularly important in the profession.
The work also requires knowledge of game genres and different games as well as interest in games. It is also necessary to keep up with the development of the industry, update your skills and study independently.
A game graphic designer may have a degree in graphic design or visual arts or an education in information technology. You can also complete a vocational qualification in media and visual expression (game production technician). You can also complete the qualification through an apprenticeship. Vocational upper secondary education and training institutions offer vocational upper secondary qualifications in information and communications technology with a specialisation in software engineering.
At universities of applied sciences, you can complete a bachelor of culture and arts degree and specialise in graphic design. Graphic design can also be studied at a university. Graphic designers may have a bachelor of arts or a master of arts degree. Depending on the university and faculty, suitable bachelor’s degrees may include a bachelor of humanities, bachelor of technology or bachelor of arts. Potential master’s degrees include master of arts, master of science (technology) and master of fine arts.
Private sector
3578 €/mo
The data is based on the median income, meaning the amount of salary which is the middle of the salary amounts arranged in order of magnitude.
Source: Statistics Finland's structural statistics on wages and salaries