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The SCi Group is the largest video games developer and publisher in the UK. We have publishing operations across Europe (France, Germany, Spain, UK) and in the US. We also have significant development studio expertise both internal and external, in Europe and the US.
SCi employs over 700 people worldwide.
We are in an exciting new phase in our journey of development as a dynamic company.
Through our experience and knowledge of the marketplace and technology, we are managing the transition into a dynamic, customer focused, market-smart developer and publisher of entertainment software.
To explore the different and exciting opportunities that exist within the games industry we have provided some basic information on the types of roles which exist within our business:
TYPICAL ROLES WITHIN A DEVELOPMENT STUDIO
Programmer
Most companies will expect you to hold a good degree (2:1 or 1st class) from a respected university in one of the following subjects: computing, software engineering, mathematics, physics or engineering. Almost all development studios use C or C++ - they are fast and efficient programming languages needed for the majority of games platforms. In addition, a knowledge of Artificial Intelligence (AI) techniques and 3-D programming techniques would be useful.
Artist
A game Artist is responsible for creating the images used within the game, including characters, levels and gameplay instructions. Computer animation techniques are used widely, as is the use of complex graphics packages such as 3D Studio Max or Maya. As you might expect for this role, you will need to be a good artist rather than an IT expert. Games companies can teach artists relevant computer skills, but they can't teach an IT student how to be a good artist!
We look for Artists that have worked for one or more successful titles with a proven track record. A strong portfolio is essential, showing evidence of modelling, texturing and lighting.
Naturally you need to be passionate about games and be able to work under pressure towards tight deadlines!
Designer
The role of a game Designer is a complex one, and probably not an area you would move into without previous experience of the games industry. In practice, the role of Designer is often a combination of a number of skills such as design, project management, scheduling and research, in addition to the creative aspects of Design. You need to have an understanding of all the aspects of a game from code, to art, to music - and an understanding of how these impact on the design of the game. You need to have an analytical, methodical approach whilst still being able to encourage creativity within your team. Communication skills are very important and you would be expected to write well, and speak or make presentations confidently.
We look for Designers that have a background in film scripting or video games design preferably with experience of Maya.
A keen games player with knowledge of both the video games industry and cutting edge technology is essential as is your ability to work under pressure towards tight deadlines!
MAIN ROLES WITHIN A GAMES PUBLISHER
Producer
The role of Producer varies within the industry but at SCi, the Producer is responsible for the delivery of the game software to the publisher on time, within budget, and to the highest quality possible. Their very varied duties range from co-ordinating allocated resources, monitoring the development teams, presenting the product, and accounting for expenditure.
The Producer combines the role of project manager with the key function of internal communication to the marketing, sales and PR teams to generate maximum interest and sales once the game is published.
You would initially be employed as an Associate (Trainee) Producer for a period of 1 - 3 years during which time you 'shadow' a Producer through all stages of the development cycle. This is a popular route into the industry. To be employed as an Associate Producer you would be expected to have a degree or a number of years of relevant experience as, for instance, a QA Technician.
QA Technician
The role of QA Technician involves the execution of Test Plans on pre-release versions of games during their development to detect program defects. Software is tested for ease of use, reliability, consistency and compatibility with different hardware.
Required qualifications to work as QA Technician at SCi include minimum GCSE/O Level Maths and English, strong love of playing games, the ability to spend extended periods playing games, good organisational skills and the ability to meet deadlines.
There is a well-defined career structure within the Test department, with experience you may rise to be a Senior QA Technician, Lead QA Technician, Supervisor or Assistant Manager.
Localisation
Localisation manages the translation of games into other languages. This involves writing scripts for voice actors, liaising with other offices overseas and Quality Assurance of the language translations. A second language is a definite advantage if you want to work in this department, but other than that it requires good project management, experience of working to deadlines and a very high level of attention to detail.
Marketing
SCi’s Marketing department covers a number of important roles. They market our games to you, the customer, they also market the games to the stores who will be selling them. Brand, PR, Web and Creative Services make up the other elements to complete the marketing department.
There are a variety of specialist roles within Marketing, with varying degrees of creativity, technical skills, graphic design and management skills required.
Sales
The objective of the sales teams is to reach company sales revenue and profitability targets. They manage national accounts within their own country, and also provide an account management service for those countries where SCi does not have an office itself. They also have responsibility for credit controls, the product lifecycle and negotiations with major retailers for offers and discounts. First-class presentation skills and negotiation skills are pre-requisites to join the sales team.
Operations
SCi’s Operations department provides all the functions necessary to deliver SCi products into the shops. It comprises mainly production and sales order processing. The department instructs various manufacturers in the duplication of disks and printing and production of all the paper parts and boxes and arranges shipping and deliveries locally and overseas. There is a lot of liaison with other departments to obtain the original materials and this is often done to extremely tight deadlines.
Work in the operations department demands excellent computer and telephone skills, a logical mind, some experience of logistics, and the ability to keep a calm demeanour under pressure!
Customer Support
The Customer Support team provides resolution of customer queries over the telephone and via email, and writes and records the 'hints and tips' lines.
FOR FUTHER INFORMATION
For further information we recommend any one of the games industry's magazines, many of which are available online e.g. The Edge focuses on technological developments within the industry while MCV focuses on company and commercial updates.
There are several excellent sites with more information about working in the games industry such as:
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