Can I Be an Xbox Game Tester?

If you're looking to become an xbox game tester and test the newest & coolest xbox 360 games for cash, then you had better get out of dream world. No one is going to knock on your door and say "Hi, Do you play video games? Do you want to test video games for us and make lots of money?" Sorry, it just isn't going to happen that way. No, instead you have to take action and work to become a xbox game tester all on your own. How can you do that? Simple, by following the 3 simple steps below.

Step 1: Don't Focus on the Money....at First

Your ultimate goal is to make a living playing & testing video games. But, keep in mind you are not going to reach that goal on your first day, so try not to get your hopes up too high.

No game developer is going to pay you huge sums of cash for your first testing job; it's as simple as that. Game companies and developers need experienced xbox game testers, not "weekend players" who are merely trying to give game testing a "shot".

What does this all mean for you? It means you may actually have to test xbox 360 games for free! It may be a hard notion to stomach, but it is a necessary adjustment to get your foot into the door of professional xbox game testing. By offering your services for free, game companies will see what you're made of; not to mention, you'll be able to build up some very useful references.

Step 2: Make More Than Friends, Make Contacts

The more people you know in the game industry, the better your chances of becoming a highly paid, and well known xbox game tester. Having said that, make it a mission of yours to be as friendly and as courteous to everyone you come in contact with. That secretary you talked to on the phone or via email might just be the right person who can push your application to the front of the line.

Quick Note: You won't start out knowing every one in the industry, so don't get bummed out about your lack of reliable game contacts. Building a network of reliable contacts is a gradual thing that takes time and patience.

Step 3: Get Active and Stay Active

Never stop applying for xbox game testing jobs and testing positions. Even when you land that first video game tester job, don't stop sending in applications. The more companies you are in contact with, the greater your chances are for finding high paying testing jobs.

Remember, there are guarantees in the game testing industry. Merely because you have a testing job with one developer during week one, that doesn't mean you'll be working with them during week 2. In light of that fact, try to follow these 3 basic guidelines: don't limit yourself, keep your options open, and always (ALWAYS) be looking for more xbox game tester positions!