The gaming market in India is expected to experience significant growth in the coming years, with a projected increase from $2.6 billion to $8.6 billion by 2027. This growth has led to a shift in perception of the gaming industry and has attracted a large number of skilled professionals seeking careers in the sector.

The AVGC (animation, visual effects, gaming, and comics) industry has the potential to employ over 20 lakh million individuals in the next decade, with a projected growth rate of 16-17%. This shift in the gaming industry has also resulted in a change in the way educational institutions view gaming companies as viable career opportunities.

• UI/UX Designer

At its core, gaming is a visual experience, so a strong visual and technical foundation is crucial for the success of every game. As such, Thriving on thrill and response, games need to be interactive and aesthetically engaging. This is where the roles of UX and UI designers come into play. UX designers ensure that the correct data and feedback are passed on to players. The role of the UI designer, meanwhile, is to ensure that a game is packaged well through visuals. As they are responsible for the look and feel of the game, the demand for UI designers will continue to flourish in the industry.

• Game Developer

Game developers play a crucial role in the multi-billion-dollar gaming industry. They are the creative force behind some of the most exciting and immersive entertainment experiences available today. With a unique blend of skills in graphic design, storytelling, technology, and art, game developers can craft engaging worlds and characters that captivate players for hours on end. For those who possess the talent and drive to seamlessly blend software, technology, and art, the gaming industry offers endless opportunities to innovate, experiment, and succeed.

• Data Engineer

In the gaming industry as well, data is king. And data engineers are in a unique position to ensure all necessary data is collected, stored and analysed in a proper fashion that can later be leveraged to provide the ultimate consumer experience. From understanding behavioural trends to anticipating the future needs of any gamer, the demand for this role will enhance as companies focus further on retaining users.

• Product Manager

From planning to execution, product managers are responsible for a game. Whether it is to target the correct audiences, follow the market journey of every game, or understand developments that can retain users, managers make sure that a game is on the appropriate track to success and is profitable throughout its run. With the evolution of technology, the industry is going beyond traditional console gaming and exploring avenues in cryptocurrency and the Metaverse. With features such as trial gaming and innovative add-ons, and virtual products, the potential for gaming companies is limitless in this virtual world and product managers will be the ones to lead the way with uniqueness and sharp insights.

• 2D/3D Artist

The demand for talented 2D/3D artists will only increase as this industry, which is driven by creative visual excellence, grows at an exponential pace and scale. Over the next five years, the industry will witness massive onboarding in this segment as companies will look to hire more talented and unique artists to create an exceptional gaming experience that captures players’ attention amid tough competition in the industry. The video game industry is rapidly growing, offering many opportunities for individuals with talents in audio, video, and storytelling. Positions such as game designer, game tester, visual artist, audio engineer, special effects expert, creative director, actor, writer, and programmer are all in high demand. This exciting and fast-paced industry is a great place for those with a passion for gaming to showcase their skills.

(About the author: Ms Harshada Sarode is the Human Resource Manager at PlayerzPot. Her key task at the company includes devising employee-friendly policies that inspire every stakeholder to attain new targets. She is an alumna of Middlesex University, UK and has carved a robust career spanning eight years across educational counselling, Immigration counselling, and hospitality. )