When you think about video games, the first thing that often comes to mind is the story or gameplay. But what about the art? This is what can really make or break a successful computer game, and for graduates in computer games art, that is where the focus lies.

Global revenues in the computer games industry are projected to approach $200 billion in 2025, outpacing even film and music. This growth is driving demand for creative, technically skilled graduates, especially those with expertise in game art.

If you’re thinking about getting your foot in the door of making games for a computer, a degree can open the door to multiple opportunities. Read on to discover career opportunities available to computer games art graduates.

Introduction to the Game Art Industry

Game art sits at the intersection of creativity, technology and storytelling. Game artists are responsible for crafting the visual elements that make your favourite games so memorable and immersive, from character designs and environments to animations and user interfaces.

The industry’s expansion, coupled with advances in technology like AI, motion capture and remote collaboration, is creating new roles and reshaping traditional ones.

Studios want artists who can adapt and who understand both the creative side and the technical demands. It’s a challenging field, but one with plenty of room for those who can combine artistic talent with practical skills.

Core Career Paths for Computer Games Art Graduates

With a computer games art degree under your belt, you’ll have the option to pursue a range of game developer jobs, each with a role contributing uniquely to the development process.

Here are just a few of the options:

1. Game artist

Game artists create the visual assets for games, including characters, environments, props and effects. They work closely with designers and programmers to ensure the game’s look aligns with its mechanics and narrative.

2. Game animator

Animators bring characters and worlds to life, using motion and visual effects to create fluid, realistic or stylised movement. Proficiency in animation software and an understanding of motion principles are key.

3. Level designer

Level designers craft the maps and layouts that shape gameplay. They balance challenge and fun, integrate story elements and collaborate with artists to ensure environments are visually compelling and functional.

4. Sound Designer

While not always a primary art role, sound designers with a creative focus often work alongside visual artists to integrate audio with visuals, enhancing immersion and emotional impact.

5. Game Designer

Game designers are one of the game artist jobs that deal with developing the core mechanics, storylines and gameplay features. They work across disciplines to prototype concepts and refine the player experience.

6. Game Writer

Writers craft the narratives, dialogue and the overall lore that underpin the game world. Their work is increasingly important as narrative-driven games gain popularity.

7. Game Tester

Testers (or QA analysts) play games in development to identify bugs, inconsistencies and areas for improvement. Artistic knowledge can help testers spot visual issues and suggest creative solutions.

8. Game Marketer

Game marketers use their understanding of art and audience to create promotional materials, trailers and social media content that capture attention and drive sales.

Specialised Art Roles in Game Development

As games become more complex, studios often look for specialists who focus on specific aspects of art.

Here are some specialist game art jobs that you may be interested in:

1. Concept Artist

Concept artists produce the initial sketches and illustrations that define the visual style of a game. Their work guides the entire art team and helps secure buy-in from stakeholders.

2. 3D Modeller

3D modellers build the digital sculptures of characters, props and environments. Mastery of modelling software and an eye for detail are essential.

3. Texture artist

Texture artists paint the surfaces of 3D models, adding realism or stylisation through colour, patterns and material effects.

4. Character artist

Character artists focus on designing and modelling the protagonists, antagonists and NPCs that populate the game world. They pay close attention to anatomy, personality and visual storytelling.

5. Environment artist

Environment artists create the worlds players explore, from lush forests to futuristic cities. They design landscapes, architecture and atmospheric details that enhance gameplay and narrative.

6. UI/UX artist

UI/UX artists design the menus, HUDs and interactive elements that guide players through the game. They blend aesthetics with usability to create seamless experiences.

7. Technical artist

Technical artists bridge the gap between art and programming, ensuring assets are optimised for performance and integrated smoothly into the game engine. They often develop tools and workflows for the art team.

Challenges and Tips for Breaking into the Gaming Industry

The games industry is highly competitive, with many talented graduates vying for limited roles.

Key challenges that many face in the video games art world include:

  • Standing out in a crowded field
  • Keeping up with rapidly evolving technology and workflows
  • Building a network in a globalised, often remote-first industry

How to Build a Strong Portfolio for Game Art Jobs

A standout portfolio is your ticket into the industry. Studying for a games art degree can be a great way to build a portfolio, all while learning the ins and outs of the industry.

Here are some ways to make sure your portfolio stands out from the rest:

  • Showcase a variety of work: Include characters, environments, props and UI elements.
  • Highlight your process: Show sketches, iterations and final assets to demonstrate your workflow.
  • Tailor your portfolio: Customise it for the roles you’re applying for (e.g. focus on character art for a character artist role).
  • Include personal and group projects: Game jams, mods and collaborations show initiative and teamwork.
  • Keep it updated: Regularly add new work and remove older, less relevant pieces.

Success Stories of Computer Games Art Graduates

Many graduates of games art courses have turned their passion for game art into rewarding careers. Some have joined indie studios or major developers, working on high-profile titles or innovative indie projects.

Others have built successful freelance businesses, contributing to games worldwide thanks to the rise of remote work and outsourcing.

The industry’s growth and diversity mean that graduates with strong portfolios, adaptability and a collaborative spirit can find their place, whether in AAA studios, indie teams or as sought-after freelancers.

The future is bright for computer games art graduates. With the industry expanding and diversifying, many game art careers are on the horizon across core and specialist roles. By building a robust portfolio, staying adaptable and embracing new technologies and ways of working, you can carve out a fulfilling career in one of the world’s most stimulating creative industries.