People working in games and immersive technology create interactive experiences using digital tools, storytelling, design and software development. This includes video games, virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), mixed reality (MR), and immersive experiences used in sectors such as education, healthcare, tourism and training. Ireland has a growing digital games industry, with independent developers, larger studios and companies providing services to the global games industry. There are lots of different ways to work in these sectors; many enter their jobs through animation, graphic design, architecture, film, theatre, digital media, music, storytelling or performance.
Examples of jobs in this sector
Designs gameplay, mechanics, and levels.
Possible Pathway Higher Education usually combined with a strong personal project portfolio.
Builds the game’s code and systems.
Possible Pathway Higher Education. Doing some self-taught coding through online resources can also help. It’s important to build up a portfolio of small games.
Creates 3D models, characters, and environments for games.
Possible Pathway An art/animation-focused Higher or Further Education course, building a strong demo reel or portfolio.
Tests games for bugs and quality issues — the classic entry point into a games studio.
Possible Pathway Work Experience — this is the role that needs enthusiasm and attention to detail.
Manages a game’s online community and social channels. Attends events, writes newsletters, organises social media, sets up live streams and finds the best way of dealing with criticism
Possible Pathway Transferable Skills / Local experience like running a school or club’s social media, or moderating an online gaming community can help.
Oversees a game’s development schedule, budget, and team.
Possible Pathway A longer route — usually Higher Education followed by years of experience in QA, design, or production coordination first.
Adapts games for different languages and markets. Keywords Studios, headquartered in Dublin, is one of the world’s largest games localisation and QA providers.
Possible Pathway Fluency in a second language, sometimes paired with a language degree.
Builds interactive experiences for VR, AR and mixed reality platforms using tools such as Unity, Unreal Engine and WebXR.
Possible Pathway Higher Education in computing, software development or immersive media. Personal projects and a portfolio are highly valued.
Designs the overall user journey, interaction and storytelling within immersive experiences.
Possible Pathway Higher or Further Education in immersive media, digital media, design, theatre, film or creative technologies, supported by a portfolio of projects.
Coordinates teams, timelines and budgets across immersive technology projects.
Possible Pathway Experience in production, project management, games, live events or digital media.
Possible Pathways into this sector
- Look at Higher Education options
Think about a course related to one of these areas. Many universities offer these, for eg: Bsc in Computing with Computer Games Development at ATU Donegal, or BA in Immersive Media Production at Ballyfermot FET. - Look at Further Education options
Many FE colleges offer courses in subjects like games design. Having a portfolio of work to show potential employers will help. - Think about work experience
Code Club — look for a coding club in your area —it might be a good way to start building coding and game-making skills. Contact an immersive studio for work experience opportunities – Eirmersive (Ireland’s immersive entertainment organisation) has a list of its members on its website. - Transferable Skills / Local Experience
Making simple games with free tools like Scratch or Unity’s free tier, starting or joining a school coding club. - Game Jams and XR Challenges
Participating in game jams, hackathons and immersive technology challenges is a great way to gain practical experience, build a portfolio and meet collaborators
Free Online Tools to Practise With
- Scratch make simple interactive projects and game
- Godot or Unity (free tier) create your own 2D and 3D games and experiment with game development, programming and interactive experiences.
- Unreal Engine explore professional game development and immersive experiences, including game design, programming, visual effects and virtual worlds.
- Blender create 3D models, characters, environments and animations, and experiment with the tools used by professional artists and animators.
- Godot learn game development and programming by creating your own games.
- GDevelop create games without needing to start with traditional programming.
- itch.io publish and share your own games and creative projects.
Skills Worth Developing
- Problem-solving & critical thinking
- 3D thinking and spatial awareness
- Communication & explaining ideas clearly
- Understanding of emerging technologies such as AI, AR and VR
- Attention to detail
- Understanding players and audiences
- Technical and digital skills
