In this article, we’ll break down how ad blockers interact with mobile games and whether using them can affect your device’s performance, for better or worse.

What Is Game Performance?

Before diving into the role of ad blockers, let’s define what we mean by game performance. This usually includes:

• Frame rate (FPS) – How smooth the visuals are
• Load times – How quickly the game starts or loads new levels
• Battery usage – How much power the game consumes
• Network usage – How much data the game requires
• In-game responsiveness – The speed of reaction between your input and game action

Now let’s explore how ads — and blocking them — can influence each of these performance factors.

How Ads Affect Game Performance

In-game ads aren’t just visual clutter — they consume real resources. Here’s how:

1. Increased Load Times

Many free-to-play games are designed to load ad scripts when you launch the app or enter new levels. These scripts often rely on external ad networks and slow down loading.

2. Higher CPU and RAM Usage

Video ads and animated banners use CPU and memory to render, especially if they autoplay in the background or switch dynamically.

3. Battery Drain

Heavy use of ad libraries, especially those fetching video content over mobile networks, can significantly increase battery drain.

4. Lag and Stutters

Ads that load in the middle of gameplay or at critical moments (e.g., level completion) may introduce frame drops or lag.

5. Data Consumption

Streaming video ads and tracking scripts can eat up data, a concern for users with limited mobile plans.

In short, ads can degrade performance in noticeable ways, even beyond the annoyance factor.

How Ad Blockers Help Game Performance

Ad blockers work by preventing ad scripts from loading in the first place, whether they’re static banners or video streams. When ads are blocked:

• Fewer scripts = faster loading
• Less rendering = lower CPU/GPU strain
• No ad tracking = lower background activity
• No external calls to ad servers = reduced latency and lag

Let’s break down the performance improvements you may see with ad blockers:

1. Faster Load Times

Games that rely heavily on ads (especially freemium titles) often pause while they wait for ad servers to respond. If the ad blocker cuts that process short, loading becomes smoother.

• Example: A puzzle game with ads between levels might load the next round 2–3 seconds faster when ads are blocked.

2. Lower RAM and CPU Usage

Without ads running in the background, your device has more free memory and processing power to allocate to the actual game engine.

• This can result in higher FPS and fewer stutters, especially on low- or mid-range devices.

3. Reduced Battery Consumption

Ad libraries often run in the background even when you’re not actively interacting with the ad. This continuous activity can drain your battery. Blocking those ads stops the drain at the source.

• Users of tools like AdLock and Blokada often report 10–20% longer play sessions on a single charge.

4. Decreased Mobile Data Usage

If you’re gaming on mobile data, every video ad and tracking request eats into your plan. Ad blockers like NextDNS and DNS66 can prevent these connections altogether, reducing data usage significantly.

5. Better Online Game Responsiveness

Ad requests and tracking often happen on the same network as your game traffic. Blocking these can reduce latency or prevent lag spikes during multiplayer matches.

• This is especially noticeable in games where performance depends on a stable connection (e.g., FPS, real-time strategy games).

Can Ad Blockers Harm Game Performance?

While ad blockers generally help performance, there are a few exceptions and caveats to be aware of:

• Initial setup may use resources. Some ad blockers — particularly those with built-in VPNs or firewalls — may consume a small amount of CPU/RAM themselves. However, the trade-off is usually still positive overall.

• Conflicts with game servers. In online multiplayer games, overly aggressive blocking may prevent the game from connecting to legitimate servers, especially if ad servers are used for authentication or updates.
• Not all blockers are created equal. Poorly built or outdated ad blockers can introduce bugs or even cause crashes. Always use well-maintained and trusted apps like AdLock, Blokada, or NextDNS.
• iOS limitations. Due to Apple’s restrictions, ad blockers on iOS can’t block ads within games at the same level as Android. Most iOS ad blockers only work within Safari or DNS-level blocking with limited system impact. This means iPhone users may see less performance improvement unless the game relies heavily on ad domains.

Offline vs. Online Games: What’s the Difference?

The impact of ad blockers can vary depending on whether you’re playing offline or online mobile games:

If a game relies on ad revenue for in-game rewards, blocking ads may limit functionality. Some games may not load certain screens or may freeze after a blocked ad attempt.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

From a performance perspective, ad blockers are a win. But it’s worth remembering that ads fund most free mobile games. Blocking ads removes a revenue stream that supports developers, especially indie studios. Tips for ethical use:

• Support developers by making in-app purchases or buying premium versions
• Use ad blockers for performance-critical games, not every app
• Whitelist games you enjoy if ads are not too disruptive

Best Ad Blockers for Game Performance (2025 Picks)

If you’re looking to improve mobile game performance in 2025, here are the top tools to consider:

Final Verdict: Do Ad Blockers Improve Game Performance?

Yes — in most cases, ad blockers improve game performance.

They reduce system load, save data and battery, speed up loading times, and eliminate frustrating lag caused by ad scripts. However, their effectiveness depends on your device, the games you play, and the type of ad blocker you choose.

The post Do Ad Blockers Affect Game Performance? What You Need to Know appeared first on Tjob-Rek.

In this article, we’ll explore the best ad blockers for mobile games this year, tested for performance, compatibility, and reliability. Whether you’re an Android or iOS gamer, these tools will help you enjoy uninterrupted gameplay.

1. AdLock

Platforms: Android, iOS
Price: Free trial available, premium from $1/month
Best for: Seamless ad blocking in offline and online mobile games

AdLock takes the crown in 2025 for its powerful and non-intrusive ad-blocking capabilities. Unlike traditional ad blockers that rely on browser extensions, AdLock works system-wide, meaning it blocks ads in apps and mobile games, not just web content. In turn, it is perhaps the best ad blocker for iOS.

Key Features:

• Blocks all types of in-game ads: banners, video ads, pop-ups, and auto-play ads
• Works without root access on Android
• Saves bandwidth and battery life by preventing ad-related data usage
• Customizable filters to fine-tune what gets blocked
• No logs or tracking, preserving your privacy

AdLock is especially effective for mobile games that don’t require an active internet connection. Since it works at the DNS and network level, it can block ads before they even load, meaning fewer interruptions and faster loading times.

Why we recommend it: If you’re serious about gaming and hate being pulled out of the experience by annoying ads, AdLock is the most reliable solution in 2025.

2. Blokada 6

Platforms: Android, iOS (Lite version), Linux
Price: Free (Blokada 6), Premium VPN plan optional
Best for: Tech-savvy users who want a privacy-first solution

Blokada is an open-source ad blocker that’s gained a cult following among Android users. The latest version, Blokada 6, supports system-wide ad blocking using local DNS filtering, which is perfect for blocking in-game ads — even in free-to-play games packed with video ads.

Key Features:

• Free and open-source
• Blocks ads in all apps, not just browsers
• DNS-level filtering, efficient and lightweight
• Optional VPN features for enhanced privacy
• Minimal battery usage thanks to optimized design

Blokada 6 isn’t on the Google Play Store due to its deep blocking capabilities, but it’s easily available via its website or F-Droid. iOS users can use the limited Blokada Cloud version, which still blocks some ads but lacks full functionality due to Apple restrictions.

Pro tip: Combine Blokada with a custom DNS provider to block even more ad servers commonly used in mobile games.

3. AdGuard

Platforms: Android, iOS, Windows, macOS
Price: Free basic version, Premium from $2.49/month
Best for: Power users with rooted Android devices

AdGuard is one of the most advanced and well-known names in the ad-blocking world. While the app works well on unrooted devices, its full potential is unlocked on rooted Android phones, where it can intercept and block ad traffic at the deepest system level.

Key Features:

• Blocks ads in apps and games
• Advanced tracking protection
• Custom DNS support and filtering rules
• Built-in firewall and parental control options
• Stealth Mode for added privacy

For mobile gamers, this means no more surprise banner ads during gameplay or waiting through reward-based video ads. The app also allows granular control over what to block, making it ideal for those who want to fine-tune their ad-blocking preferences.

Note: iOS users can still use AdGuard, but with limited functionality due to iOS restrictions (mostly browser-based blocking).

4. DNS66

Platforms: Android
Price: Free
Best for: Low-spec devices and users who want a simple setup

DNS66 is a lesser-known gem that uses a local VPN to block DNS requests to known ad-serving domains. It’s incredibly lightweight, doesn’t require root, and is perfect for gamers who want a minimalistic approach to ad blocking.

Key Features:

• No root required
• Works offline and online
• Blocks ads system-wide, including in games
• Uses minimal battery and RAM
• Easy to whitelist certain apps or domains

While it may lack the polish of premium apps, DNS66 gets the job done, especially for blocking persistent in-game ads that rely on domain calls.

5. NextDNS

Platforms: Android, iOS, Windows, macOS
Price: Free for up to 300,000 DNS queries/month; premium starts at $1/month
Best for: Customization and cross-device syncing

NextDNS isn’t a traditional ad blocker — it’s a cloud-based custom DNS service that blocks tracking and advertising domains before they even reach your device. By configuring your mobile device to use NextDNS, you can block in-game ads globally.

Key Features:

• Massive blacklist of ad servers
• Block trackers, malicious domains, and analytics
• Works on both iOS and Android
• Syncs across devices
• Detailed logs and analytics dashboard

Gamers will appreciate that NextDNS works silently in the background, protecting your gaming sessions without additional apps. It’s especially useful if you’re playing online games and want to avoid trackers or malicious redirects.

Bonus: You can enable gaming-focused filters and whitelist specific game servers to avoid connectivity issues.

6. RethinkDNS + Firewall

Platforms: Android
Price: Free
Best for: Blocking ads while enhancing privacy

RethinkDNS is an up-and-coming tool in the ad-blocking space that functions as both a DNS-based ad blocker and firewall. It gives you fine control over how apps connect to the internet, making it ideal for mobile gamers who want to eliminate ad traffic without impacting gameplay.

Key Features:

• Firewall per app to restrict internet acces
• Blocks known ad/tracker domains
• Works without root
• Open-source and privacy-focused
• Real-time logs and analytics

It also includes real-time tracking of DNS requests, allowing users to spot sneaky ad servers used by game developers.

How to Choose the Right Ad Blocker for Mobile Games

Here are a few factors to consider when picking the best ad blocker for your needs:

• Compatibility. Make sure the tool works with your device (Android vs. iOS) and supports the kind of games you play.
• Root Requirements. Some apps like AdGuard offer deeper blocking on rooted devices. If you’re not rooted, opt for solutions like AdLock, Blokada, or DNS66.
• Offline vs. Online Games. Offline games are easier to block ads in. Online multiplayer games might rely on ad servers or DNS lookups, so cloud-based blockers like NextDNS work better.
• Battery and Performance. Lightweight blockers like DNS66 or RethinkDNS are great for older phones or long gaming sessions.
• Privacy. Open-source tools like Blokada and RethinkDNS ensure that your data isn’t being logged or sold.

Final Thoughts

Mobile games should be fun, not frustrating ad traps. In 2025, there will be more tools than ever to block unwanted interruptions and get back to gaming.

Whether you prefer open-source solutions like Blokada, high-performance options like AdLock, or customizable DNS services like NextDNS, there’s a perfect ad blocker out there for every type of mobile gamer.

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The Art and Science of Superhero Game Design

Creating a game that features a roster of beloved superheroes comes with its own set of challenges. Developers must honor the unique abilities and personalities of each character while ensuring that gameplay remains balanced and engaging. Here are some of the design secrets that help make Marvel Rivals stand out:

Character Balancing and Unique Abilities

Each superhero in Marvel Rivals is designed with a distinct set of powers and vulnerabilities, echoing their comic book origins. Designers face the challenge of translating these diverse abilities into gameplay mechanics that remain true to each character while maintaining competitive fairness. This involves:

• Fine-Tuning Abilities: Adjusting damage outputs, cooldown times, and special effects to prevent any single character from dominating the match.
• Strategic Synergy: Creating team-based strategies where different heroes complement one another’s strengths, thereby encouraging cooperative gameplay and dynamic combat scenarios.

Immersive Visuals and Audio

Visual storytelling plays a pivotal role in the Marvel Rivals experience. The game leverages high-quality graphics and meticulously crafted animations to breathe life into its characters. Complementing the visuals is a robust audio design featuring cinematic soundtracks and impactful sound effects, ensuring that every punch, explosion, and superhero landing resonates with the player. This multisensory approach deepens immersion and reinforces the narrative of an epic battle between good and evil.

User Interface and Experience

In fast-paced competitive games, an intuitive and responsive user interface is critical. Marvel Rivals employs a design that prioritizes clarity and ease of use, enabling players to focus on the action rather than getting lost in complex menus. Key features include:

• Real-Time Feedback: Dynamic HUD elements that update instantly, providing players with immediate insights into their performance and the state of the match.
• Customizable Controls: Options that allow players to tailor their gaming experience, ensuring that both newcomers and veterans can engage with the game seamlessly.

Boosting Services: Enhancing Your Competitive Edge

In the competitive arena of Marvel Rivals, many players rely on boosting services to overcome tough matchups and quickly advance through the ranks. For example, Marvel Rivals boosting platforms (such as overboost.pro) provide a suite of services including rank advancement, win accumulation, proficiency leveling, achievement enhancement, and skin unlocks. These expert-driven services, delivered by teams with top-tier competitive experience, offer practical support that helps elevate performance while preserving the game’s integrity.

The Intersection of Fan Culture and Game Development

A deep connection with fan culture is one of the driving forces behind Marvel Rivals. The game is designed not only as a competitive arena but also as an homage to the Marvel universe, where every character’s backstory and evolution plays a vital role in their in-game representation. This alignment between fan expectations and game design is achieved through:

• Community Feedback: Regular updates and patches informed by player input help maintain balance and introduce new features that resonate with the community.
• Cinematic Storytelling: Integrating narrative elements within gameplay—via character interactions and special events—keeps the storyline fresh and engaging, much like the evolving plotlines of Marvel comics and films.

The Technical Backbone of Marvel Rivals

Behind the scenes, a robust technical framework supports the seamless integration of art, audio, and gameplay mechanics. Developers employ advanced game engines and optimization techniques to ensure smooth performance even during intense battles. Key technical strategies include:

• Real-Time Rendering: Utilizing cutting-edge graphics technology to render complex scenes and dynamic lighting effects that enhance visual appeal.
• Latency Reduction: Implementing network optimization measures that minimize lag, ensuring every action in combat is synchronized for a fair competitive experience.
• Adaptive Scaling: Designing the game to perform reliably across a range of hardware configurations, allowing a broad audience of players to enjoy the title without compromise.

Behind the Scenes: Collaborative Innovation

The creation of Marvel Rivals is a collaborative effort that unites specialists from various fields. Game designers, character artists, sound engineers, and programmers work together to create a cohesive and immersive experience. This multidisciplinary approach fosters:

• Iterative Design: Continuous testing and refinement based on real-world gameplay ensure that every element—from character abilities to environmental effects—functions harmoniously.
• Cross-Department Collaboration: Seamless communication between teams guarantees that narrative elements, visual effects, and technical optimizations are fully aligned, resulting in an engaging gameplay environment.

Final Reflections

Marvel Rivals stands as a shining example of what modern game design can achieve when creativity meets technical expertise. From the delicate balance of superhero abilities to the seamless integration of immersive audiovisual elements, every aspect of the game has been meticulously crafted to deliver an unforgettable competitive experience. For developers and enthusiasts alike, Marvel Rivals offers valuable insights into the intricate process of translating beloved comic book lore into a cutting-edge, interactive format. As the title continues to evolve through community-driven updates and innovative design, it sets a high standard for future projects that aim to blend narrative depth with high-octane competitive gameplay.

Whether you’re a seasoned developer or an aspiring creator, the design secrets behind Marvel Rivals provide a compelling glimpse into the complex art of building a game that resonates with both fans and competitors.

The post Marvel Rivals Unmasking the Secrets of Superhero Design appeared first on Tjob-Rek.

What Is Narrative Design?

Narrative design is the art and science of integrating storytelling into interactive media. Unlike traditional writers, narrative designers must consider how a story unfolds in a non-linear, interactive environment where players influence the outcome. Their role extends beyond writing dialogue and cutscenes; it’s about designing the overall narrative structure and ensuring that every gameplay element reinforces the story.

Key Responsibilities of a Narrative Designer

• Story Development: Crafting the game’s plot, characters, and world-building elements.
• Interactive Storytelling: Designing branching narratives and player-driven story arcs.
• Integration with Gameplay: Collaborating with game designers, artists, and programmers to ensure the narrative is seamlessly woven into gameplay mechanics.
• Dialogue and Scriptwriting: Creating authentic and engaging dialogue that enhances character development and immersion.
• Feedback Incorporation: Iteratively refining the story based on internal playtesting and player feedback to maintain engagement and coherence.

The Importance of Storytelling in Games

Stories have the power to evoke emotions, shape player decisions, and create lasting impressions. In the competitive market of video games, a compelling narrative can set a title apart. Consider how franchises like The Witcher, Mass Effect, or Bioshock have captivated audiences with rich storytelling. These games demonstrate that a well-designed narrative is not merely an add-on but a central pillar that defines the overall experience.

Enhancing Immersion

Narrative designers create worlds where every detail – from the dialogue of side characters to environmental storytelling – contributes to the player’s immersion. When done well, players feel like active participants in a living, breathing universe. This deep immersion enhances emotional investment and encourages players to explore every facet of the game world.

Bridging Gameplay and Emotion

Interactive storytelling allows narrative designers to bridge the gap between gameplay mechanics and emotional resonance. A player’s choices can lead to diverse outcomes, making each experience unique and personal. This interactivity not only increases replayability but also helps players form a deeper connection with the characters and the narrative arc.

The Collaborative Nature of Narrative Design

A narrative designer rarely works in isolation. Their role is inherently collaborative, requiring close coordination with various departments:

• Game Designers: To ensure that the story enhances gameplay and that key plot points are integrated into game mechanics.
• Artists and Animators: To visually translate narrative elements into the game’s environment, character designs, and cinematic sequences.
• Programmers: To implement branching dialogues and interactive narrative systems within the game engine.
• Sound Designers: To create audio landscapes and character voices that complement and elevate the story.

Through collaboration, narrative designers help create a cohesive game experience that feels both organic and engaging.

Essential Skills for Aspiring Narrative Designers

Breaking into narrative design requires a mix of creative talent, technical know-how, and a passion for interactive media. Here are some skills and qualities that can set you apart in this field:

1. Strong Writing Ability: A knack for storytelling, character development, and world-building is essential. This includes an understanding of narrative arcs, pacing, and dramatic tension.
2. Understanding of Game Mechanics: Knowing how gameplay functions can help you design narratives that enhance rather than hinder the player’s experience.
3. Adaptability and Flexibility: Video games are dynamic, and projects often evolve based on feedback and testing. Being adaptable is crucial.
4. Collaboration and Communication: Working with diverse teams requires clear communication and a willingness to integrate feedback.
5. Technical Literacy: Familiarity with game engines, scripting languages, or interactive narrative tools can be highly beneficial.

Tips for Getting Started

• Portfolio Development: Create writing samples or small interactive stories that showcase your ability to design branching narratives.
• Learn the Tools: Familiarize yourself with game development software such as Unity or Unreal Engine, and explore narrative design tools like Twine.
• Study Great Games: Analyze the narrative structures of successful games. Identify what makes their stories compelling and consider how you might implement similar techniques.
• Network and Collaborate: Join game development communities, participate in game jams, and seek out collaborative projects to gain practical experience.
• Stay Updated: The field of game development is continuously evolving. Stay informed about new trends, technologies, and storytelling techniques.

Real-World Examples: Narrative Design in Action

Case Study: The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt

The Witcher 3 is often cited as a masterclass in narrative design. The game’s sprawling storyline, rich character development, and moral ambiguity set a high standard for narrative-driven games. Narrative designers in this project worked closely with other departments to ensure that every side quest, dialogue, and environmental detail contributed to the overall narrative. The result was an immersive experience where players felt genuinely responsible for shaping the story through their choices.

Case Study: Life is Strange

Another excellent example is Life is Strange, which uses interactive storytelling to explore themes of time, consequence, and personal growth. The game’s branching narrative and character-driven plot are a testament to the power of narrative design in creating emotionally impactful experiences. Players’ choices significantly affect the story, making each playthrough unique and personal.

The Future of Narrative Design

As technology advances, narrative designers are presented with new challenges and opportunities. With the rise of virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and artificial intelligence (AI), the way stories are told in games is evolving. These emerging technologies offer narrative designers innovative tools to craft more immersive, personalized, and interactive experiences.

Embracing New Technologies

• Virtual and Augmented Reality: These platforms provide novel ways to engage players, making the narrative an integral part of the spatial and sensory experience.
• AI-Driven Storytelling: Artificial intelligence can help create dynamic narratives that adapt to player behavior in real-time, offering personalized story arcs.
• Cross-Media Storytelling: With games increasingly intersecting with movies, TV, and literature, narrative designers have the opportunity to build expansive universes that transcend traditional gaming boundaries.

Conclusion

Narrative designers are the unsung heroes of the gaming industry, transforming ideas into immersive experiences that captivate players. Their work goes far beyond writing dialogue – it’s about creating worlds where every element works in harmony to tell a story that resonates on an emotional level. For those passionate about storytelling and interactive media, narrative design offers a rewarding career path full of creative challenges and exciting opportunities.

Whether you’re an aspiring narrative designer or simply a game enthusiast eager to understand the craft behind your favorite titles, exploring the realm of narrative design can deepen your appreciation for the art of game development. In a world where every decision shapes the narrative, the role of the narrative designer is more critical than ever in crafting the worlds of tomorrow.

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The issue is that video games frequently exhibit the personalities and interests of their creators. Because of this, it is not surprising that there is a dearth of diversity in games in terms of protagonists, characters, narrative, and accessibility.

But things are changing fast. Here are three key initiatives the video game industry is pursuing to improve accessibility, allow feedback on сall tracking reviews, diversity, inclusion, and game creation.

   Improved access to information

Historically, the majority of video games were challenging to play for those with various disabilities. Or, frequently, it may even be impossible. This is due to the fact that accessibility features that may assist players with disabilities were typically not supported by video games. But in recent years, accessibility has become a top focus for game publishers and creators.

Why now? Perhaps it’s out of altruism (doing the right thing), or perhaps it’s just smart business (more players = more money) to encourage more people to play your games.

Whatever the cause, modern developers have a different perspective on accessibility. To make their games accessible to all gamers, some of the biggest gaming developers, like Naughty Dog, even employ people full-time.

Simple accessibility settings to brand-new, cutting-edge assistive technology are all possible. Any game released in the last several years is likely to have any or all of the following accessibility features:

·      Settings for accessibility. There are currently several games that allow players to adjust the accessibility settings to suit their needs. Look for options like colorblind modes, bigger text, voice control, text-to-speech, and support for alternate input devices.

·      Adjustable controls Nowadays, the majority of games provide players the option to remap controllers to fit their preferences. That’s especially beneficial for physically challenged players who might struggle to use the default control configurations. Whichever, it also benefits all players because it allows anyone to map controls however best suits their particular play style.

·      Controls for one hand. Many gamers struggle to utilize both hands because of mobility issues. Some games feature one-handed control techniques to help players deal with this. Simply enable it in the menu for accessibility options.

·      Description audio. Every gamer is aware that the graphics and aesthetics are essential for interacting with the game’s universe and comprehending what is happening. It’s not as simple for players who are blind or have impaired eyesight to simply gaze at the screen, though. Some games allow you to enable audio descriptions as a help feature. The game will then employ text-to-speech or pre-recorded audio to describe what is on screen, giving millions of gamers with vision impairments new gaming options.

·      Closed captioning. The majority of video games have subtitles, which are a text representation of spoken dialogue that appears on screen, but many also provide closed captions. In addition to displaying the dialogue, closed captions can also describe the sound effects used in the game and even the style or mood of the music. It helps those playing late at night with the sound off (so they don’t wake their spouse or their newborn!) and is a lifesaver for deaf or hard of hearing players.

·      Alternative approaches to input. Alternative input techniques, including eye tracking or voice commands, are supported by some games and can be useful for players who have mobility issues. These alternate input techniques frequently call for specific gear, such the Microsoft Adaptive Controller or the Pretorian Optima Joystick. But the extra cost might just be justified if it makes the difference between gaming and not gaming.

2. More diverse characters in games

For a large portion of gaming history, white male characters predominated in video games. The kinds of persons, their histories, and the kinds of stories being presented weren’t that varied.

This lack of diversity has been a concern, and not just because it restricts the variety and depth of play experiences that can be had. Additionally, it neglects to include narratives and characters that would enable players from a variety of backgrounds to identify with themselves in the games they like.

Fortunately, more and more people are seeing themselves represented in video games. Developers have begun to increase their representation by incorporating many colors, ethnicities, genders, sexual orientations, and abilities into their games, from the smallest independent projects to the greatest AAA giants.

Both businesses and players benefit greatly from this. The attraction of a game to a global audience is increased by representation, which also contributes to a more diverse gaming industry as a whole.

There are numerous examples of current video game initiatives that have advanced representation in the industry.

  3. Businesses and communities that are more inclusive

In the past, harassment, inequity, and discrimination against particular groups of individuals have been frequently linked to a toxic culture in the gaming industry.

But despite a number of recent controversies, or perhaps in part because of them, there is a definite trend towards creating organizations and communities that are more inclusive and inviting. In addition to promoting diversity and inclusivity within the industry as a whole, game groups all over the world are striving to confront and prevent harassment and toxic conduct in the workplace and online.

 Future perspectives

Even though the video game business has seen significant advancements recently, much more has to be done. The good news is that many developers and other industry participants are dedicated to bringing about significant change. According to a new IGDA developer survey, game developers are more concerned than ever about the value of diversity in the workplace, in their game content, and throughout the industry.

The game industry is working hard to bring about change, from lone developers all the way up to the CEOs of the biggest game firms. Change that will make working with developers and players worldwide more satisfying, welcoming, and inclusive.

The post Three key ways that the video game industry is improving appeared first on Tjob-Rek.

But it’s time to stop looking for the “right way,” because there is no “right way.” Instead, there are many ways to get your first job at a game studio. To find the best strategies, you need to understand how other professionals started out who became professional game developers.

1. Post your work on discussion boards (forums/chats)
   If you’re a novice game developer, you may spend a lot of time hiding behind discussion boards and soaking up as much knowledge as you can. But you know who else reads these forums? Professional game developers do.
2. Start a game blog.
   If you’re looking for a job writing games or leading a gaming community, the best way to get started is to just… start.

Jason Van Beveren was doing typical corporate work when he realized he actually needed a job in games. “I started blogging about online gaming. I had hope that I would catch someone’s eye. I also wanted to see if I was good at it. It only took a month before I was spotted by Parris Lilly, who asked me to run a gaming website that he ran.”

3. Create your own indie games
   A recurring question from gamedev applicants is, “How can I get experience making games if game studios won’t even consider my resume if I have no experience?” The answer is simple: make a game, and then – voila! – now you have some experience.
4. Get an entry-level job as a game tester
   Of all the jobs in the game industry, the easiest one to get is as a game tester. Why? Partly because most tester jobs don’t require a college degree or other specialized training, so anyone can apply. But also because many game testers eventually move on to other jobs on the game team, so there’s always room for new testers to fill the vacancies.
5. Get an internship at a video game studio
   If you have skills that you can use in game development, such as programming, art, or sound design, you can get a job at a game studio, even if you’ve never made an actual game. Not every studio has an “official” internship program for game developers, but most are open to the idea of a temporary, low-cost (or free) part-time employee who could help them finish their game.
6. Get a degree/certificate related to video games
   Mandi Grant earned a bachelor’s degree in game art and design and was hired immediately after her studies at a game studio. As a designer and lead designer, she’s created several major projects, but according to her, one degree isn’t enough: “Creating an experience requires you to think critically about your work and improve it. You have to play the role of a new player over and over again, even if you yourself are very familiar with the level you’re building.”
7. Get a traditional college degree
   If you look at job postings from various game studios, you’ll notice that many of them say “Higher education required.” In most cases, it doesn’t have to be a game-related degree, as long as you have learned skills that can be applied to game development.
8. Get a job at a game studio in a non-game development position
   It takes many jobs to run a successful game studio, and many of them are not directly related to game creation. Even if you’ve never created a video game, you can still apply for non-development positions such as information technology, tool development, or other support staff.
9. Participate in game jams.
   Rarely do job offers come in after creating something cool in a game jam.

We include it here because it probably makes sense. After you do a game jam, you’ll have something for your portfolio, you’ll develop some skills in working with a team under pressure, and you’ll expand your professional network by meeting new people, many of whom might be professional game developers, which could help you find a job someday.

10. Be persistent and don’t give up
    Is “persistence” a strategy? Like many things worthwhile in life, developing your skills and getting a job in the video game industry will not be easy. You may feel like you’re banging your head against the wall – you may get frustrated.

The post Practical Tips appeared first on Tjob-Rek.

For example, for a game-designer position people without special education are usually hired, as this profession is pretty rare. So if you have strong logical thinking, if you understand how to design levels in games, create game worlds and mechanics, which techniques can captivate the player, take an online course in game design and break into a new sphere.

And there are a lot of journalists, editors and TV scriptwriters among game writers. To write game scripts it is important to know the basics of drama, storytelling and conflict resolution, to be able to create a compelling story and develop it within the main idea, to give out creative ideas and adequately perceive criticism.

Game analyst is another profession that allows you to get into gamedev without a technical background. It is a profession that exists at the intersection of game design and product analytics. Game analysts know how to work with the most unusual metrics – the joy of playing a game, reactions to mechanics, behavioral patterns. They collect analytics and allow developers to make decisions based on accurate data without relying on intuition.

Pros and cons of working in gamemaking
Like all fields of work, working in gamedev has its pros and cons.

The pros and cons of working in gamedev:

• Most gamedev companies allow employees to work remotely or partially remotely, so you become mobile and can travel or work from anywhere you are comfortable.
• Interesting projects (especially if you’re a gaming fan).
• Comfortable offices and standard perks of IT industry like insurance, meal compensation, corporate discounts to the gym (not all, but many companies have them).
• Interesting team (in game software mostly creative people, with whom you are unlikely to get bored).
• The level of wages. Programmer salary in game mode depends on the scale of the company, his education, experience and knowledge of English. If we are talking about professions that are not directly related to the development (editors, screenwriters), as a rule, after the transition to gamedev, their salaries increase significantly.

Cons of working in gamedev:

• Like any other job, there are deadlines. And sometimes they are very strict in game mode.
• High level of competition. The fashion for learning programming has caused dozens and hundreds of candidates to apply for some positions, especially when it comes to the capital.

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Every specialist with a technical mindset, once he gets a job in a game studio, may think about the prospect of retraining as a programmer. Game designers or technical artists, who already have a deep knowledge of game development, can study programming, to stimulate career growth or to give a start to a new stage in professional development.

This venture is even easier to implement when you work in an office, because then you can always ask for help from a concerned colleague-developer and get advice from a professional. And if you are lucky enough to have a loyal management that supports the initiatives of its employees, you can arrange to be involved in the simplest tasks of the development department. That way you’ll have a chance to learn from real tasks and show your employer your interest in the project.

How to get a job in GameDev: practical tips on how to find a job

If there are three open positions in the company you are interested in, you shouldn’t send your resume to all of them at once. Decide which specific position you are interested in, and apply for it. All other skills that might be useful to work in the other two positions, it is appropriate to list them in the appropriate paragraph. So you show that you know what you want and do not give the impression of a desperate man, ready and draw, and social networks, and coding in between other tasks.

Describe your level of knowledge of programs, special tools and programming languages in a clear and structured way (how long have you been using them in your work, on what projects).

Accept a test task only if you really intend to do it. It is better to be remembered by HR as an adequate job seeker, and not as a candidate who disappeared without explanation. It’s a small world, and you may run into this recruiter in the future.

Be sure to include on your resume all the courses, seminars, bootcamps and conferences you have attended. This way you will give the impression of a person who is passionate about the profession, who is relentlessly developing and keeping up with industry trends.

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Opportunities for creativity.
Video games are inherently creative, and you often have to find creative ways to solve a problem or defeat an enemy. Being a gamer doesn’t always mean playing to make an income, as there may also be opportunities to write game guides, teach newcomers how to excel at the game, or judge your own tournaments. As a gamer, video game companies and developers may ask for your opinion or pay you to play a beta version of a game before the creators release it to the general public.

Job Prospects
Once you are successful as a player, you may find that your job prospects are favorable. With continued practice and the ability to meet promising competitors, you may be able to continue to succeed in your career and continue to earn income for your efforts. Also, consider how many games are released each year. You will always have the opportunity to learn a new game and use your acquired and honed skills to succeed.

Versatility
As a gamer, your hours, place of work, and teammates can vary, which means you can probably make your career as versatile as you want. You can participate in a tournament in a different location than your hometown, or meet new players who are rapidly improving their game and need to join a team. You can also practice your game according to your schedule, which can contribute to a positive work-life balance you can be happy with.

How to Start a Career in Games
If you want to become a professional player, consider the following steps:

1. Decide what game you want to excel at
   Most professional gamers focus on developing their skills in a particular game. Take the time to decide what game you like best, what you’re best at, and what you can build a career in. The more you can focus on a particular game, the more likely you are to succeed in competition. against other people who are also pursuing a career in the game.
2. Buy quality gaming accessories
   One thing you can do to become a professional gamer is to have products and accessories that support your craft. For example, if you gamble on your computer, consider buying a desktop PC with plenty of free memory, fast performance, great game support, and everything you need to make it run efficiently and without lag. Explore different mouse options to make sure your computer’s movements are accurate, fast and support your games.
3. Practice your game
   Once you’ve chosen a game and a gaming platform that you want to excel at, spend a lot of time practicing. You can play sports, but also consider joining local leagues, start competing with friends, or sign up for a national group of players who compete online. Through consistent play, you can develop your skills, discover techniques and learn more about how your competitors play.
4. Immerse yourself in gaming content.
   There are already professional gamers who have had success with their chosen game, so study their content, such as blogs, podcasts, articles, interviews and more. Read their strategies and how they’ve built their careers. This can not only give you tips and proven methods, but also serve as motivation as you discover your own career path.
5. Join a network.
   The right network will connect you with other players who are interested in building their careers in games so you can practice together, and probably against others who are close to your abilities and can present a real challenge. You can learn tips and tricks from your network, and get the added benefit of simply enjoying your time and confirming your interest in making games your career.
6. Join the team.
   The next step to becoming a professional gamer is to join a team. Your team can support you in your career, and you can all play together against other teams with similar skills and abilities. Find out what leagues and competitions your team can join, and sign up for those that will either help you strengthen your skills or be a challenge from which you can learn.

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Article Author
Writing articles about games is probably the most accessible and varied occupation in the field of games for most people. Every major gaming-themed website (including mmoglobus.ru) needs skilled writers to cover the latest news, to write opinions, reviews and previews. Qualitatively created content provides a steady flow of visitors, which in turn generates revenue from advertising. The more we grow, the more article writers we can hire, the more we hire, the more we expand.

Where to start: The best way to become a good writer is to start your own blog and publish the best possible content on it. If a potential employer asks you for a writing sample, just show them your blog. Alternatively, you can offer your services for free to a reputable gaming portal. I’m not suggesting anyone write for free all the time, but it’s not a bad way to build a resume and take your first steps in the industry. A degree isn’t necessary, but it certainly wouldn’t hurt. Sites like English-language GameJournalismJobs.com may help you in your job search, since you may find orders from big companies like Activision Blizzard and Riot Games.

Keep in mind: just because you’re interested in games doesn’t mean you can succeed in the industry as an author. Writing articles and opinions is fun, but rewriting game news can be pretty boring. Article writers often have to promote their work through social media and understand popular online publishing platforms like WordPress, for example. Most of the work is pretty routine, as sites will squeeze as much quality content out of you as possible.

Streamer
These days, anyone with a more or less decent PC and a reliable network connection can stream thanks to services like Twitch and Youtube Gaming. The development of these streaming sites in the past few years has given rise to unprecedented opportunities for players to create their own shows or streams. Most users of the services stream “for fun,” but for a growing number of people streaming is becoming the main method of making money, not a bad one, by the way. Jeffrey Sheen aka “TrumpSC” (Hearthstone streamer) was quoted in Forbes stating that popular streamers make over $100,000 a year just from streaming, not counting Youtube videos, sponsorships, etc.

Where to start: The great thing is that getting into professional streaming is pretty damn easy. Just download some streaming software (like OBS – Open Broadcast Software), set it up, and you’re good to go. Remember: Finding an audience on Twitch isn’t easy, it takes patience. You also have to be devilishly good at the game you’re broadcasting, or entertain your viewers (both ideally). Don’t expect instant success, and try to stream regularly to get subscribers.

Youtube
Just like streaming, creating video content about gaming is available to almost anyone. All you need is a video-capture program like Fraps (OBS will also do) and a decent PC. Any kind of video content is fine, as long as it brings you views. Creators of quality content get, on average, $1 per 1,000 views: not very much, but it is an average. However, just like streaming, creating new content on a regular basis is a tough job that few people can handle.

Where to start: Create a channel and start uploading videos. That’s how easy it is! It’s hard to find subscribers and attract an audience: it can take years. The best way to get up fast is to create unique content that viewers will share with friends.

Keep in mind: make good videos! There are countless channels on Youtube with lots of videos and no views at all. Creating a simple gameplay video of the new Call of Duty isn’t the best way to stand out, because bigger channels have probably already done that for you.

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