Tips & Tricks: Industry Myths

Do you dream of working in the video game industry? You would like to join a development studio one day, but you have certain beliefs that block you? This article is for you! We debunk the biggest myths surrounding a video game studio! Are they fictional or real? It’s up to you to find out!

YOU HAVE TO BE A GAMER TO WORK IN THE INDUSTRY

One of the most common myths is that you have to be a gamer to work in the video game industry. While this may help you understand the environment you’re in, it’s not a requirement to get hired! Some jobs, such as quality assurance (development tester) and game and level design, require a great deal of knowledge about the mechanics and trends of the industry. However, it’s not uncommon for a programmer or concept artist to not be the biggest gamers in the universe! So this myth is false!

THERE IS NO ROOM FOR JUNIORS AND YOUNG PEOPLE

The gaming industry is for everyone, even at Ubisoft! Think you need a ton of work experience to apply to us? Well, we strongly advise you to put that aside and apply directly after your studies. It’s in the studio’s DNA to support the industry’s next generation by hiring them when they first start out and helping them grow in experience afterwards. You’d be surprised how many directors have joined Ubisoft right out of school! We’re always looking for motivated people to grow within our team and that next person could be you! So this myth is false!

EXPECT A LOT OF OVERTIME

The way we develop our games has changed a lot! At Ubi, we pay particular attention to respecting the balance between personal and professional life. As in any industry, work intensity can vary, so some weeks are busier and others are quieter. In all cases, our managers make sure to maintain healthy conditions, look after the well-being of the teams and ensure that overtime is picked up as soon as possible. We also have new work measures that ensure this perfect work-life balance. So this myth is false!

EMPLOYEES ARE STATIONARY

This myth makes us laugh! Despite certain perceptions, not everything is like it is in the movies! At Ubisoft Quebec, several initiatives are in place to promote employee health: a private gym, a full-time kinesiologist, personalized programs, group classes (yoga, tabata, etc.) and outdoor outings organized by the social club. On a daily basis, it is not uncommon to see teams running together around the Saint-Charles River or on the Plains of Abraham! Our people even have access to a fruit bar at all times. Apples, bananas, avocados: you name it! This myth is false!

These myths may seem crazy to you, but it’s not uncommon for candidates to ask our recruiting team about them. The video game industry is evolving and there’s room for everyone! Ubisoft is at the heart of this revolution and we use every possible opportunity to demystify our beautiful industry. In fact, several programs exist to develop your knowledge in the field. We invite you to take a look at them!