Becoming a Video Game Expert – You’ve Got the Skills, So Why Not?
If you find yourself playing video games day-in and day-out, you might be a prime candidate for establishing yourself as a gaming expert. All you need is a good knowledge of a wide range of games and gaming systems, and a lot of patience. The rewards are phenomenal and in the end, you’ll be a better person for it.
So what is a video game expert anyway? Just what is it that qualifies anyone to be an expert on anything? Since there aren’t any colleges that offer degrees in video game expertise, pretty much any gamer as an expert who has the qualities described above could be classified as an expert. If you have the knowledge or ability to play a game skillfully and you enjoy solving problems, you could probably claim the rights to an expert status.
Just be sure that you keep up with all the latest developments and trends in the gaming industry. Part of being an expert is admitting that there’s always more to learn and in the gaming industry, this should never be a hard thing to pull off. Exposing yourself to new games and new game systems allows you to turn every time you play into an opportunity to expand your knowledge. In doing so, you’ll learn tons of new strategies and improve your value and status as an expert gamer.
It’s also a great idea to make an effort to collaborate with other gamers. Get off the game and get out into the public where other gamers go so that you can network and discuss your discoveries with others. Networking gives you the opportunity to talk shop, swap secrets, teach others, and learn a little something new at the same time. The relationships that you build as a result are simply invaluable. There’s probably no other way you could gain access to little known gaming secrets than to network among the best gamers around.
If you’re totally focused on becoming a gaming expert, consider taking some classes in game programming. Seek out an apprenticeship and find training programs that are offered in both your local area and the gaming industry as a whole. This is an excellent way to learn everything you could ever want to know about gaming, and it’s a good entrance into the gaming industry if you aren’t too crazy about making a commitment to a full time gaming career. You could also subscribe to gaming magazines, participate in online discussion boards, or sign up for book clubs that focus on gaming material.
Take note that your status as a gaming expert may not always be appreciated. Strong criticisms – whether right or wrong – come with the glory of being perceived as an expert. You may be rejected for an opportunity that you feel you’re perfect for, or you may experience the wrath of a less-than-experienced heckler. The first rule of thumb is not to take rejection or criticism personally. Some people may be jealous of your position, or they may want to test you just to see how much you really do – or don’t – know. Just remain confident in your knowledge and abilities. A true expert looks past these things and they constantly look for ways to improve themselves.