The Role of Computer Science in Video Games

If you are an avid gamer and love computers, you might be considering a career in game development. Game development is a specialized, relatively small, and profitable industry.

A degree in computer science is a great way to get a formal education and get on your feet. So, in this article, we'll discuss how computer science relates to video games, what types of degrees you can get, their professional advantages, and more.

What is Computer Science?

Commonly referred to as CS, a computer science degree is a broad field that studies computer systems as a whole, including networks. The computer science curriculum includes the study of programming languages, data science, software development, information security, and network architecture.

Studying CS gives you the opportunity to work in many tech-oriented fields, including the gaming industry. Studying this in-demand and high-paying major is a great idea if you aim to get into the gaming industry.

What Types of Computer Science Degrees Are There?

There are four types of computer science degrees you can earn, depending on the field and job you're looking for. As always, the shortest degree will help you get an entry-level job, while a longer one will lead to higher pay.

Some of the computer science degrees you can earn include:

Associate Degree

To earn this degree, students need to complete 60 credits over two years. It will help you get an entry-level job as a programmer, web developer, or computer systems administrator.

Bachelor's Degree

A bachelor's degree involves 120 to 128 credits. It typically takes four years to complete. With this degree, you can get an entry-level job in software development, computer engineering, and computer science.

Master's Degree

Earning a master's degree is a great way to get a more specialized, and therefore higher-paying, job. The course is 45-50 credits and takes two years. It is a recommended path for aspiring computer scientists and information research specialists.

Most institutions require that candidates for a master's degree have a degree in computer science or a degree from similar fields, such as science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM), before enrolling in a master's program.

Doctoral Degree

Earning a doctoral degree takes 4 to 5 years, which is certainly the most complex and demanding of all. It involves a lot of study and research. Most doctoral degrees require a dissertation.

A doctoral degree is best for people who want high-level jobs in teaching, research, and computer science.

For a career in the gaming industry, a master's or doctoral degree is not required. It's often better to gain work experience at a game development company. You can also get a boost by building a strong portfolio and mastering various programming languages.

Advantages of Computer Science in Gaming

What role does computer science play in gaming? A degree in computer science opens doors for professionals who want to work in technical fields. As a result, it is versatile and always in demand.

Here are the main benefits of earning a computer science degree:

Builds a Strong Foundation.

A degree in computer science allows you to study computer languages, which is crucial in game development. Game designers need to know various coding languages to create levels, interactions, progression, etc.

Computer Science Gives Professionals an Advantage.

Computer science in the gaming industry will help you develop games. Since computer science introduces you to various operating systems, computer graphics, and languages, it is an excellent foundation for programming-related work. It will give you a deep understanding of the internal tasks involved in creating games.

It is versatile.

Once you understand the technical aspects, you can use your degree as a starting point for various specializations. Whether you want to delve into game architecture, design, testing, quality assurance, or another aspect, a computer science degree will allow you to hone other skills and occupy the niche that interests you.

How are computer sciences used in video games?

How have computer sciences influenced games? Games reflect advances in technology and computer science. Although we started with 2D animation, we have come a long way. Modern game engines have become more realistic, immersive, and playable thanks to:

Upgraded Graphics

Technology has allowed developers to create better graphics. The days of pixel graphics are long gone. Some modern games are so realistic that the gameplay looks like cinematic scenes.

New-generation graphics convey human likeness well. They even emphasize certain facial features and expressions. Backgrounds look like real images.

The latest Playstation 5, for example, features 8K graphics at 60 Hz or 4K at a 120 Hz refresh rate. This is far from what was on the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES), released in 1990 with a 256×224 resolution and 8×8 pixel graphics.

Enables Multiplayer Games

Several decades ago, only players in the same room could play with each other on a single device. With the advancement of computer technology, multiplayer games appeared. Players can connect with each other and play games from computers, laptops, tablets, VR headsets, and smartphones.

Geographic boundaries are no longer a limitation. You can play a game with other players no matter where they are in the world, as long as they have an internet connection and a copy of the same game.

Accessible Gaming

There are many platforms on which we can play games: mobile phones, game consoles, and computers. Video games are also available at different price points. Some are even free and do not require Wi-Fi.

Games have become more accessible than ever. Even a conservative retiree who is not very tech-savvy can play a game on their mobile phone.

Augmented and Virtual Reality

How has computer science influenced games? Computer science has given rise to new ways to enjoy games, such as augmented and virtual reality.

Augmented reality is a fairly new concept that allows players to feel that the game is part of the real world by incorporating elements into the player's environment. A great example of augmented reality is the game Pokemon Go.

Virtual reality (VR), on the other hand, is completely opposite. It makes the player feel inside the game rather than where they are. VR games involve using a headset that provides audio and video from a simulated world.

Computer Science Graduates and Careers in Gaming

You might think that a computer science degree will help you get a job as a programmer, and while that is certainly true, it is not the only job you can get. Game development requires several types of technology professionals.

Once you get a job in the gaming industry, you may notice similar or more specialized roles that you might want to pursue. Game designer, programmer, and tester are just three of the possibilities.
Check out their specific roles below.

Game Designer

A game designer is someone who brainstorms ideas and concepts, creates prototypes, and develops game mechanics. The designer is also responsible for making decisions about how the game will function, such as creating systems or gameplay rules. They also help develop storylines to ensure games are playable and engaging.

Simply put, a game designer is the one who oversees the foundation, features, and execution of the game.

Game Programmer

While someone studying CS can become either a game designer or a programmer, these two roles involve different responsibilities.

A game programmer is someone who develops software for video games. They write and translate code for different operating systems to ensure the complete implementation and functionality of the design. They turn the designer's vision into reality.

Programmers work closely with game designers or developers to create the final product. They are involved in all iterations of the game because they are responsible for building the backend or engine that runs the game. Despite this profession historically showing impressive growth rates, note that demand for programmers is expected to decline by 11% through 2032. Nevertheless, an average of 6,700 programmer job openings occur each year.

Game Tester

You don't necessarily need a degree in computer science to become a game tester, but knowledge of operating systems and video games helps. A game tester checks games before they are released. They look for glitches, coding inaccuracies, holes, issues with game economies, and much more. The tester verifies whether the game is playable and is responsible for quality control.

If a tester finds a bug or something that needs to be changed, their feedback is passed on to the game developers and programmers, who then work on iterations.

Other Degrees That Can Help You in the Gaming Industry

If a degree in computer science doesn't appeal to you, you can consider other degrees that are valued in the industry. Let's look at some of them.

Video Game Programming and Development

Many specialized universities offer majors related to video game programming and development. The curriculum covers game theory, interface design, and game production.

Because the degree is focused on games, this type of certification is not as versatile. So, if you later decide that another niche in tech suits you better, you may not be able to switch as easily.

However, if you have decided to pursue a career in game development, it's an excellent starting point.

Computer Animation

Computer animation will teach you how to create characters, backgrounds, and 2D/3D animated graphics for video games. Some classes also focus on story creation, helping you develop your own narratives.

If you want to create illustrations for computer games, studying computer animation is a great