Designer, game

What does a Game Designer do? – Tasks and Work Environment

A game and digital media designer works on developing and designing game experiences, from concept to finished product. Tasks often include concept development, game design, interaction design, creating game mechanics, and balancing different elements within the game. The work is carried out in close collaboration with programmers, artists, and sound designers, making communication skills central. The work is often project-based, involving rapid changes, iterations, and testing. The work environment is usually office-based, but opportunities for remote work exist, especially within larger game studios and international companies.

Salary development over time

Salaries for game and digital media designers have shown some variation in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 46,800 SEK per month, while in 2023 it slightly decreased to 45 700. However, in 2024, the salary has risen again to 47 700, representing an increase of approximately 4.4 percent compared to the previous year. This development reflects an increased demand for qualified game developers, while skill requirements are becoming higher. Fluctuations may also be due to changes in the gaming industry and competition for talent, with larger companies offering higher salaries to retain experienced designers. The recent year's salary increase can partly be attributed to digital transformation and a growing gaming market both nationally and internationally.

Game Designer salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 47 700 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 41,600 SEK (men), 42,100 SEK (women)
• Highest salary: 52,300 SEK (men), 44,900 SEK (women)
• Hourly wage: 287 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 91% of what men do (44 500 SEK vs. 49 000 SEK)
• Regional differences: Specific regional differences are lacking, but variations may occur depending on location and company size.

Education and qualifications

To work as a game designer, a post-secondary education in game design, digital media, or related creative fields is usually required. Many employers value practical experience and project portfolios highly, and it’s common to combine formal education with self-study and internships. The industry is fast-changing, making continuous skills development and adaptability important qualities.

• Post-secondary education: For example, a university degree in game design (3 years or more)
• Courses and certifications: Specialized courses in game design, UX, graphics
• Internships/Trainee programs: Internships or trainee programs at game studios
• Prerequisites: Basic knowledge of design principles and digital tools
• Self-study/Online: Online courses, tutorials, and participation in game jams
• Tips for choosing: A strong portfolio and experience from personal game projects are highly valuable

Common benefits and compensations

Game industry designers are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, flexible working hours, remote work options, and access to modern work tools. Other common compensations include bonus programs, skills development, and sometimes profit sharing, especially at larger studios. Employers also emphasize creating a creative and inclusive work environment where employees participate in training and industry events.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a Game Designer in the digital media industry is intense, especially in larger cities and at leading studios. The industry is characterized by high demands for technical and creative skills, and work samples and portfolios often determine hiring decisions. Rapid technological development requires ongoing education and adaptation to new tools and methods. Challenges may also include project-based employment and periods of high workload, especially before launches. Despite this, the profession attracts many due to the opportunity to realize personal ideas and work in international teams.

Tips for aspiring Game Designers

To succeed as a game designer, it’s good to combine creativity with technical understanding and strong collaboration skills. Building a solid portfolio through personal projects and participation in game jams demonstrates initiative and drive. Curiosity and willingness to learn new tools and techniques facilitate keeping up with industry developments. Good communication skills ease collaboration in cross-functional teams where ideas and feedback are exchanged continuously. It’s also important to be persistent and solution-oriented, as game development often involves many revisions and challenges before the final product. Networking and building relationships in the industry can open doors to new opportunities and projects. Finally, a structured working approach is appreciated, especially when balancing creative freedom with project requirements and deadlines.

Key facts about Game Designer

• Educational level: Post-secondary education (at least 3 years)
• Work environment: Office-based, often project-oriented
• Work form: Usually full-time, sometimes remote work
• Demand: Approximately 620 job openings in 2024
• Gender distribution: Women earn 91% of men’s salary

Career paths and future outlook

After three to five years in the profession, a game designer can advance to roles such as Lead Designer, Game Producer, or take responsibility for larger parts of the development process. Experienced designers often specialize in areas like game systems, narrative design, or user experience (UX). According to the Employment Service, there is no precise forecast for this profession due to limited data, but ongoing digitalization and industry growth indicate good future prospects. The number of job openings in the group is 620, showing a certain demand, although competition for attractive positions is high. New technologies and international collaborations also open up more career opportunities and possibilities to work globally.

Frequently asked questions about Game Designer

• What does a Game Designer earn?
  - A game designer has an average salary of 47 700 SEK per month, but this can vary depending on experience, education, and employer.
• What is required to become a Game Designer?
  - Post-secondary education in game design or digital media, along with a strong portfolio and practical experience, are usually necessary.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 91% of what men do within the profession.
• What does the job market look like for a Game Designer?
  - There are approximately 620 job openings, but competition for attractive positions is high.
• What are the typical tasks of a Game Designer?
  - Developing game ideas, creating game mechanics, and collaborating with other specialists in project teams.
• What education is recommended?
  - Higher education in game design, digital media, or related fields, along with supplementary courses and internships.
• Is remote work possible?
  - Yes, the possibility of remote work is increasing, especially with larger or international employers.