How to become a game audio designer.

Sound design and audio engineering are key aspects of video game development, and involve the creation, recording, and mixing of sound effects, dialogue and music. Here are some tips to become a game audio designer:

Learn the necessary skills

There are a range of professional skills that are required to become a game audio designer:

• Sound design
• Sound recording, editing and production
• Creating and using sound libraries
• Game engines, such as Unreal and Unity
• Audio engines, such as FMOD and Wwise

Do your research on potential employers to find out what game engine they use, and focus on that. In terms of audio engines, many learn FMOD first as its simpler and easier to understand, before moving on to Wwise.

Whilst coding isn’t essential like the above skills, it’ll help set you apart from the crowd. Unreal Engine uses C++ and Unity uses C#. 

Gaining a degree in audio engineering can provide you with the necessary skills and experience to embark on a career in game audio design. Official courses and certification are also available for some of the engines, including Unity and Wwise.

Build a portfolio

It’s vital to build a portfolio of your work. A video reel showing off your sound design accomplishments can form the centrepiece of your job application.

Get networking

Networking is necessary for when you’re in the industry, as well as when you’re trying to get into it. Getting your name out there can help hugely when opportunities arise. You never know, if you’re first on someone’s mind when a vacancy comes up, they could contact you before anyone else. 

Experiment and share your own work

Sharing your work online is a great way to gain exposure. You could post examples of your work on social media, or relevant community pages online. Even if you just do this for enjoyment and want to show off your incredible talent, there’s always a chance the right person could spot it and like what they see.

Apply for placements and internships

Experience is always at the top of employers’ lists. So, if you can get yourself on a placement or internship working in the area you want a career in, then it’ll help massively when you’re applying for full-time roles. The hands-on experience is also a great way to put your knowledge into practice, so you’re familiar with what’s to come. 

Begin your game audio design career with us!

Now you know how to become an game audio engineer, why not take a look at our Sound Engineering courses? They’re fantastic if you’re interested in learning how to record and deliver audio to the highest standards. Our BSc (Hons) Entrepreneurial Audio Production course has modules specifically on sound design for games and advanced game audio practice. We’ll help you gain the essential skills you need to become a game audio designer!

We also offer a range of Music Production courses for undergraduates and postgraduates, such as BA (Hons) Music Production and MA Music Production.

You’ll get real opportunities, learn from industry experts, and develop your skills on your journey to a music and sound career. Take a look at our expansive range of subject areas, or see what student life is like at Spirit Studios by attending one of our open days.

If you’re ready to kickstart your music career, then apply now for the course that suits you. Contact us today if you want to find out more.