G2E Panel on Preparing Future Game Developers

G2E Presents Plans for Next Gen Game Devs

By Amelia Walker Senior Content Writer Updated: 16 October 2024

Amelia Walker Senior Content Writer

Amelia Walker is a Senior Content Writer at Betting.US. She has a law degree and deep knowledge of the gambling laws in the United States. Her mission is to keep players informed about responsible gambling, while her passion for sports helps her create useful guides. Amelia has over a decade of experience in betting, which has positioned her as a trusted voice among our readers.

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A Brief Background on Game Development

Slot games have come a long way since the 19th century when they were used at saloons to simulate poker hands. These days, they have elaborate themes with unique symbols and features like bonus spins or minigames. Some titles even have deep stories, vocal soundtracks, and animated symbols.

The rise of mobile gaming also means developers must ensure the game is compatible with multiple devices and that the UI can fit on smaller screens. Unsurprisingly, game devs are in high demand and have many different responsibilities to ensure a game is functional. To give you a better idea, here are some of the most common tasks for a game dev:

Conceptualization:	Game devs must be familiar with their client’s demands and what features they need to implement. Additionally, they have to work with the artists and animators to ensure the game looks good and has no issues like missing animations or inaccurate designs.
Coding:	Once the development begins, the dev must adequately create and implement the code, creating the game’s framework. Most modern games are made with HTML5, although developers need good knowledge of Java and other coding languages. They must also be familiar with the specific game engine.
Implementing RNG:	A dev also works with slot mathematicians to properly implement RNG systems. Knowledge of RNG and RTP algorithms is vital to ensure the slot game is fair and balanced.
Testing:	Once a prototype build is complete, the dev works with QA testers and receives feedback. That allows them to fix bugs, implement improvements, and ensure the game functions smoothly.

Aside from technical knowledge, game devs also need to be able to work well in teams with other people. Additionally, they need to understand the terminology and systems used in slot games. Finally, they must have a creative vision of how to implement features.

G2E’s Panel on Improving Game Dev Training

While slot development is a prospective job in Nevada, many students cannot gain suitable experience as they’re too young to access casinos. That’s why the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, showcased its Gaming Management Program with its principal professor, Dr Daniel Sahl. He was joined by Amani Adeoye, who graduated from the program last year and now works at Arrow International.

The program aims to provide students with the necessary experience in the industry, starting with one week of class instruction. It features guest lecturers from famous companies like IGT and Everi. Then, students will have a six-month paid internship with one of the companies. Many program graduates were even hired by the companies they interred at.

Understanding how small this industry is, there’s a lot of terminology and the way things are supposed to go that you don’t really understand, […] And being able to put very concrete ideas that are very well known in this industry into my head was very impactful.

-Amani Adeoye, graduate of Gaming Management Program

While the students are happy to finally learn the terms and get experience working in the field, companies support the program as it allows them to contact prospective employees directly. IGT’s senior talent acquisition partner, Connie Kim, said that headhunting is one of the biggest challenges, so this program will undoubtedly help any company looking to find new developers.

Supporting Future Developers

Aside from providing the tools for students to study, the UNLV also works closely with the companies. Dr. Nicole Hudson is the executive director of workforce education and is always familiar with the needs of the industry. She even recommends students for particular companies.

The program also has a micro-credential certification, where students are prepared for the industry’s specific needs. Overall, the program aims to ensure these future game devs can be adequately ready to meet the needs of the growing industry.

Conclusion

The UNLV understands the gambling industry’s needs and provides all the tools students require to find a job as game devs. While mathematics and engineering students can get first-hand knowledge, companies can easily meet future employees. We hope this will lead to even more impressive games in the future.