25 Rockstar North Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Rockstar North Ltd. interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view 5 answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.
1. How do you generate new video game ideas?
How to Answer
Coming up with the latest and greatest video game ideas takes skill, a great deal of original thought, and observation. Some of the best video game creators suggest researching what is already out there, and noting what is working or not working. Also, being mindful of your surroundings and everyday life is very important. Many games that are very successful are so because the characters and storyline are relatable. Discuss how you keep your idea machine running hot!
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 3rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"The first rule of thumb for me is to play a lot of video games! If I am unsure what is out there, what is working, and where existing games could be improved, it would be a serious challenge for me to come up with workable ideas. Also, I am very active in the gaming community and follow many forums. I want to see what people are saying about the world's most popular games."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 3rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"For the past few years, I have kept a file on my iPhone where I jot down all of my ideas and thoughts. Some of the ideas I have implemented into past projects, and some are still waiting to come to life. I find inspiration through the games that I play, and situations from everyday life. I believe that brainstorm sessions with my coworkers are also a highly helpful approach."
2. Do you have production experience with cloud computing services, such as Amazon Web Services?
How to Answer
Amazon Web Services, a subsidiary of Amazon, provides gaming companies reliable and affordable on-demand cloud computing services. A company can join AWS for free, and only pay what they use. Gaming companies such as Ubisoft use AWS for Assassins Creed, Far Cry, and Just Dance. Discuss any production experience you have with AWS or another cloud computing service.
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 3rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I use only AWS for on-demand cloud computing services because it's the most trustworthy and very affordable. My current company uses AWS to build and distribute our games internationally."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 3rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"When my current company needed a solution for running our analytics, data pipelines, and web offering, I suggested that we turn to AWS. Amazon Web Services is the cloud computing platform of choice for me; however, I am sure that I could quickly pick up others such as Azure."
3. Do you think it is possible to be a good team member, yet disagree with the leader?
How to Answer
In the software and technology industry, you may find a wide variance of opinion, based on peoples' experiences, education, and professional preferences. The interviewer wants to know that you can be diplomatic in the workplace, even when you may not agree with your leader.
Show the interviewer that it is possible for you to be a good team member, yet disagree with the leader from time to time. Explain that you believe everyone is entitled to their own professional opinion, yet capable of maintaining respect for each other at the same time. Show that even if you disagree with the final decision they make, you support the direction the team is heading.
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 3rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"Yes, I think it is possible! What makes a great team member is not that they agree with everything but the level of respect and positive thought that goes into the person's communication style. It's okay to disagree; however, you have to communicate your thoughts professionally."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 3rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"Yes, I do believe it is possible to be a good team member, yet disagree with the leader. I have disagreed with decisions my boss has made in the past, but generally, I keep my thoughts to myself, and I know they are the leader for a reason and likely have considered factors, beyond my understanding, for their choices."
4. Rockstar North is looking for exceptional skills in scripting languages such as Javascript, Ruby, or Python. In which are you strongest?
How to Answer
You may know all three of these scripting languages; however, the interviewer is asking for a breakdown of the ones which you are most experienced. If possible, try making your experience level easy to understand by rating yourself as beginner, intermediate, advanced, or expert in each of these scripting languages. You can also discuss how many years you have spent with each.
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 3rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I have worked with all three of these scripting languages; however, I am strongest in Javascript, where I am considered an advanced user. I would rank myself an intermediate user in both Ruby and Python, having worked with each for about three years."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 3rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"Python is where I am most experienced and current, and I would rate myself as an expert level user. When it comes to Javascript, I am an advanced user, with about five years' experience. Ruby is not an area of expertise; however, I have basic knowledge in that scripting language."
5. Have you ever been a part of designing a video game feature that pushed industry boundaries?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know the extent of your experience when it comes to working on complex video games with multiple features. It's essential that you show you can support Rockstar North's endeavors by bringing unique experiences to the table. Discuss a game you have worked on in the past that offered multiple features, allowing for you to push boundaries in your industry.
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 3rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"A couple of years ago I worked on a game called Dungeon Smash. We were one of the first developers ever to try incorporating GameSpy matchmaking. This breakthrough meant that iOS and Android users could play not only with each other, but they could now also collaborate with PlayStation and PC users. It was an exciting time!"
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 3rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"Years ago, I worked on a word game that pushed industry boundaries by allowing for cross-platform multiplayer activity. The concept was uncommon at the time. Users could log in on the app or via Facebook, so there was also a social integration component. Then, players could challenge their friends over iOS, Android, or even Facebook. Our group was one of the first teams to pull this off. I look forward to being part of your development team at Rockstar North and creating more groundbreaking gaming experiences."
6. Which video game are you playing most right now? What do you think is the appeal, and what would you improve?
How to Answer
It's tough to be an excellent video game developer if you have never played a video game before! This question is an interest-based query, so there isn't a right or wrong answer; however, the interviewer is looking for an in-depth and thoughtful reply in regards to the appeal of the game, and where you could make it better. If you are currently playing a game created by Rockstar North, be sure to let them know!
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 3rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"For the past year, I have been playing Fortnite. It is, hands down, my favorite game. Fortnite brilliantly uses the freemium model, offering v-bucks that pay for outfits, emotes, and upgraded abilities, merchandise, and more. One thing I would change about Fortnite would be to introduce a ranked game mode with a leaderboard. There should be more emphasis on skills-based player matchmaking."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 3rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"Currently, I am playing Red Dead Redemption. I enjoy that it's an open world game, with endless activity options. If I had the opportunity to improve the game, I would make the storyline more involved, and encourage players to dig deeper. Currently, the storyline seems unimportant, which could quickly bore some gamers."
7. What are your natural talents when it comes to video game development?
How to Answer
To be a successful person in the video game development industry, you need specific skills such as C# or C++, Java, Python, Ruby, and more. However, the interviewer wants to know more about your soft skills, or personal attributes, in this particular question.
Perhaps you are naturally talented when it comes to leading groups, or you are an excellent problem solver. Discuss which natural talents will lend themselves well to this position with Rockstar North. If possible, you can draw some keywords from their job posting or job description.
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 3rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I am naturally curious and love to learn. Because of this, I spend a lot of time outside of work hours building my skills and knowledge as a developer. I enjoy learning new things and then passing that knowledge to my co-workers, making me a natural leader as well. I see that Rockstar North seeks out those who want to grow, learn, and lead. I believe these attributes would help me to be very successful here."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 3rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"I am an excellent verbal communicator; a natural attribute that has come to be incredibly helpful in the video game development industry. I am very good with public speaking as well. I quickly connect with those I speak to and deliver my message in a meaningful, and interesting way. I look forward to bringing these skills to work for Rockstar North."
8. Video game development is a fast-moving industry. How do you keep up to date on new game design technology?
How to Answer
The interviewer knows that if video game development is a sincere interest of yours, you will have a plethora of resources in your pocket when it comes to learning about new game design and technology. If you are comfortable, this question is also an excellent opportunity to ask the interviewer which resources are favorites at Rockstar North. By showing an interest in the internal workings of their business, you can start a great conversation and gain valuable insight.
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 3rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"It's vital to me that I keep up to date on new game design technology. I refer to a mixture of websites, email subscriptions, YouTube channels, blogs, podcasts, and online education tools. My most frequently used resources include gamedesigning.org, TechCrunch and the Bethesda blog. If you have any recommendations, I am happy to take suggestions."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 3rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"My favorite subject matters experts include Hideo Kojima and Sid Meier. I subscribe to their blogs and closely follow what they are doing next. I also listen to the GoNintendo podcast on a regular basis. Which tools and resources are most often used here at Rockstar North?"
9. Which person do you most admire in the video game development industry?
How to Answer
There are many famous game developers, artists, and technical experts who you could admire. Since this question is more based on personal preference, there is no right or wrong answer. Just ensure that you have a response! Be ready also to explain why you admire this particular person the most.
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 3rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"There are many admirable people in the video game development industry; however, I most admire Markus Persson, the creator of Minecraft. Microsoft acquired his company for more than two billion dollars, which is remarkable. Besides his financial success, I appreciate that his passion for programming and creating great games far surpasses any ego he could have."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 3rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"My hero in the video game development industry continues to be Roberta Williams. In this male-dominated industry, it's exciting to see a woman be a stand-out. Not only that, but she is also more mature in age, being in her 60's, and still killing it as a video game designer, writer, and the co-founder of Sierra On-Line."
10. What kind of testing experience do you have?
How to Answer
Rockstar North is looking for someone who has experience setting up testing plans to identify 'bugs' and 'glitches' that may affect a user's experience. This position would require a detail-oriented person who is able to identify the different scenarios a user may be faced with.
Experience in the video gaming industry would be valuable in a position such as this, but it is not always necessary. If you have prior experience testing software and a passion for the industry, your analytical skills may be what Rockstar North is looking for when filling this position.
Written by Helen Lee on January 3rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"My prior experiences include years of work as a software tester, most recently working for a leading video gaming company. While working as a tester, I not only developed a passion for the industry, but I also learned much about the game development process. Understanding this phase allowed me to become a more thorough tester. In addition, observing user groups on a regular basis allowed me to gain the skills to develop thorough testing plans for video games."
Written by Helen Lee on January 3rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"My background includes work as a software tester in a variety of industries. I believe my work in these industries will help me be an efficient and thorough video game tester with Rockstar North as I have developed critical analytical skills. These skills have allowed me to develop robust testing plans that identify potential issues before a software's initial release. I have developed a passion for this industry and believe my knowledge and experience as a user, coupled with my software testing experience, will bring value to Rockstar North's products."
11. Rockstar North fosters a collaborative working environment. When have you taken the time to teach an essential skill to a coworker?
How to Answer
The interviewers at Rockstar North want to hear that you have experience teaching or mentoring your coworkers. You may have taught a new hire all of your department's standard processes. Perhaps you explained new concepts related to AI and data migration to a more junior employee. You may have mentored an employee who was struggling to meet a project deadline. All of these scenarios are great examples to draw on.
Better yet, if you have personally seen someone struggling with workplace skills or knowledge, approached them, and offered to mentor them, it is a shining example of leadership! Whatever your scenario may be, tell the interviewer what you helped the person with, while highlighting the positive outcome of their skills improvement.
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 3rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"Last week our company introduced a new module in our SAP system. I could see that our contracted HR assistant was having some troubles with the new module. I was familiar with it already, so I offered to help him learn the module. We spent his lunch hour for the next three days working on it. He perfected the module and our company was so impressed with his dedication to learning that they are now trying to find room to hire him on a full time, permanent basis."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 3rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"I'm proud to say that, even without any official management capacity, I often seize the opportunity to teach others at work. Not only have I helped contribute to the sales team's knowledge base of our software, but also I try to teach our clients on the added features of our software, at every opportunity. It's fun to share and teach others, especially since I am always seeking out learning opportunities for myself."
12. Tell me about a time that there was a delay in the project and how did you handle that delay?
How to Answer
In your answer, be sure to tell your prospective employer why there was a delay, but most importantly, how you handled it and got back on track. It's important to use the STAR format for questions like these: situation, task, action, result. Situation: the delay. Task: resolving it quickly and getting back on track. Action: how you went about executing the task. Result: how the steps you took to resolve it led to the effective and successful resolution of that delay.
Written by Marissa Letendre on January 3rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I was working with my team on the configuration of the new HR system we were rolling out and the HR team asked for a new module that we thought would significantly delay the launch. In order to meet our internal client's needs, we offered to add the new module, but to avoid delays to the project, we reallocated a resource to work exclusively on the module. We all chipped in extra effort on the major project parts to make up for our coworkers' absence as he was working on the module. The coworker who did the module did a fantastic job which didn't require many changes from the group. Through all this, we were able to roll the product out on time and within budget."
Written by Marissa Letendre on January 3rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"While we were working on an upgrade, there was a section we found wasn't included in the project plan. We were on a tight deadline and knew we couldn't get behind. I worked as much as I needed to in order to understand that section and ensure I could be a productive member of the team and keep the project on track. Through my research, I gained knowledge which I shared with the project manager and we were able to include that section seamlessly. By working with my colleagues and putting all of our knowledge, skills, and resources together, we got it included in a short time period and kept going as the project was planned. We didn't miss a beat. I was the newest member on the team, but my dedication and passion contributed to how successful we were in keeping on schedule and achieving a quality, effective rollout."
13. Tell me about the most rewarding experience you have had, working in a team environment. What made it so rewarding?
How to Answer
Most of the projects you will work on for Rockstar North will have a teamwork component. Whether you are collaborating with an analytics team, the IT department, or sales and product development, you will be required to have well-honed teamwork skills. The interviewer wants to hear that you enjoy, and feel accomplished through teamwork. Talk about a time when you felt fulfilled through a team setting or project collaboration.
An example may be a time when you worked on a team project in University, a recent data mine collaboration, or possibly the acquisition of a substantial new client. Discuss the results of the teamwork and how you attained a positive outcome as a group.
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 3rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"The position I am currently in has been my first experience leading a team. We have knocked some seriously complicated projects out of the park, becoming the pacesetters for many technical product launches. It's been exciting to see everyone flourish and I am happy to see everyone succeed. It's encouraging and exhilarating."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 3rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"The most rewarding teamwork experience that I have had was in my last year of university. We had a project due, in teams of 4, which accounted for quite a large part of our grade. I believe everyone pulled more than their weight because so much was at stake. Teamwork is very rewarding when everyone has something significant to win, or lose."
14. Tell me about a time you took charge of a project. Discuss one positive and one negative outcome from the experience.
How to Answer
Rockstar North has many job opportunities, and through these, will come chances to manage projects. The interviewer would like to know that you have the confidence to lead a project successfully. Think about a time when you have taken control of a task - big or small.
Begin with an overview of the project, who was involved, and what approach you took to ensure smooth execution. Next, discuss something that you feel you could have done better. You do not want to dwell on the negative, so be sure to end on why you felt the project was a success! What did you do to create a productive and positive outcome?
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 3rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"My employer asked me to lead the training of 15 employees on our new client management software. I was already a subject matter expert on the software so it wasn't difficult for me to plan the lesson. The challenge was making the content entertaining enough to keep the employees engaged. I created a PowerPoint presentation that included pop quiz questions throughout the training. The presentation was a success, and my employer asked me to lead a follow up meeting a few weeks later. Now, I am confident in my ability to jump in and lead software-based training for Rockstar North; whether that be on the client or employee side."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 3rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"In my previous software sales position, I would often collaborate with the marketing department when it came to selling strategies and new product launches. The marketing director was not the type to take control of a meeting, especially when there was a heavily technical topic at hand. So, rather than go around in circles, I stepped up to take charge of the weekly meetings we had throughout one particular project. I am certain that this contributed heavily to the successful outcome of the project, as all team members had clear directives. That particular project had the highest ROI to date; however, if I were to do that again, I would ensure tighter timelines. I look forward to delivering solid successes like this to Rockstar North, should I be the successful candidate."
15. In your opinion, what elements make a video game successful?
How to Answer
Many elements go into ensuring a video game is a successful one. The interviewer wants to see that you understand that it takes a robust set of deliverables, to make a great game. Some of the factors that you could mention include:
- A great storyline
- Excellent graphics
- An amazing soundtrack
- Intuitiveness
- Replayability
-Short and long-term goals
- Characters that gamers can relate to
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 3rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"There is a multitude of elements that make a game successful. Of course, it must have eye-catching graphics, great sounds, and an awesome storyline. Other factors, and ones that I see Rockstar North doing well, include replayability, intuitive controls, and characters that the players understand and can relate to."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 3rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"Of the video games that I play and the ones that are most successful, I see a few common factors that include great characters and storyline, as well as short and long-term goals for gamers to achieve. Players need to be able to come back and not feel that the game is repetitive, but also feel like the game is familiar as well. it's a delicate balance, but I feel that Rockstar North does this very well with the games you have released recently such as A, B, and C."
16. Which character animation systems have you used in the past?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know if you have experience with the same systems used at Rockstar North. Before your interview, if you can find out the character animation systems they use, be sure to include them in your response. There are dozens upon dozens of reliable character animation systems; some being free, and others as paid versions. Some systems work for Windows, Mac, Linux, or are cloud-based. Discuss the systems you have experience in, rating your level of knowledge from 1-10 if possible. By doing so, you are making it easier for the interviewer to gauge your level of expertise in each.
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 3rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I have experience in Maya, iClone, and Daz3D. I would say my expertise level in Maya is a 6 out of 10 with iCloneand Daz3D being an 8 out of 10. Could you share with me which character animation systems you use here at Rockstar North?"
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 3rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"The bulk of my experience in character animation systems is MotionBuilder and Blender. I prefer blender because it supports Windows, MacOS, and Linux and it's also free. Blender also supports multiple formats where MotionBuilder is a touch more limited."
17. Rockstar North developers often work overtime to meet deadlines. How do you feel about crunching?
How to Answer
Crunch time or 'crunching' is how the mobile gaming development world refers to overtime. It's no secret that, putting in extra shifts during tight deadlines is not uncommon. Some developers even claim to work 100+ hours per week as important deadlines approach. Discuss with the interviewer how far you are willing to go, for your team, while keeping a healthy balance. If you currently put in crunch time, you can mention how you deal with it in your present job.
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 3rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I fully expect crunch time then and now, as important deadlines approach or unexpected issues arise. In my current job, I have worked up to 80 hours a week. Although rare, it is taxing but expected from time to time. I am willing to put in overtime within reason. Could you share with me the expectations at Rockstar North?"
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 3rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"Crunching is a necessary ask in this industry, and I fully expect to put in overtime hours for Rockstar North when deadlines approach, or as unexpected needs arise. Do you ask for overtime from your developers on a regular basis? I am happy to work as part of a team, in any capacity required of me."
18. How do you develop trust among your team in a virtual, or work-from-home, setting?
How to Answer
Depending on a few factors, Rockstar North may offer you the opportunity to work from a home-based office. With technology taking over, many workplaces are offering remote opportunities. The interviewer would like to know that you can handle that type of set up while still building great coworker relationships - even under the absence of face-to-face interaction.
Here are a few ways that you can develop trust among your team members in a virtual setting:
- Building relationships: You might share how you have everyone introduce themselves, share their professional background, personal interests, and even a little about their interests in each meeting.
- FaceTime or Go-To-Meeting: Talk about how you ensure that you have video conferencing capabilities. Discuss that being able to see each other, even virtually, allows you to build camaraderie and creates trust among your team.
- Creating a Transparent Culture: Tell the interviewer how you open up the door for trust with your team by being an open and transparent leader or co-worker. You might share that you have open conversations about how the group will hold each other accountable.
You may also share other ideas that have worked for you such as: holding one-on-one meetings with each member of the team, providing recognition for things well done, holding fun contests, or allowing team members to understand each other better by utilizing a personality assessment.
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 3rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"Technology allows for so much these days. I believe you can quickly make a connection with someone, even if you are across the world from them, by embracing the right tools. I would also suggest incorporating multiple contests or team-based goals, where team members still have to collaborate, to get to the end goal."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 3rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"I have worked in remote IT teams in the past and what I found worked very well were regular video calls through Google Hangout. These calls worked so that everyone had a turn running the meeting, giving their ideas on an area in which they were considered a subject matter expert. This strategy established each team member as an influencer in their own right. The results were an incredible team environment, despite many of us never meeting each other in person."
19. If you could improve your video game development capabilities, which area would you choose to focus?
How to Answer
This query is a different take on the 'what is your greatest weakness' interview question. Think about the skills that you are hoping to improve over time or the missing skills you need to move up in your video game development career. Try to avoid mentioning a skill that could be a dealbreaker for the role. Also, it's essential that you mention what you are doing to improve on those areas of weakness.
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 3rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I would like to improve my knowledge in console hardware architecture as well as 3D modeling. I have committed to a course in each of these topics this year. It's important to me that, as soon as I recognize an area to grow, I can act on that and educate myself."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 3rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"Its important to me that I am always growing, and expanding my knowledge in a variety of areas. Right now, I recognize that I could improve my knowledge of 2D and 3D modeling and animation packages. I am currently seeking out workshops related to these topics so that I can take the initiative and learn."
20. Which is your favorite game created by Rockstar North, and why?
How to Answer
This question is just one example of why it is so important that you do your research on Rockstar North before your interview. The hiring authority would like to ensure that you understand the video games they have come out with and that you have played them. Discuss which game is your favorite creation by Rockstar North, and why.
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 3rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"Currently, I am playing ABC. I love that the characters are so relatable. The storyline goes as deep as you want it to go, and there are many challenges along the way. It's highly intuitive as well which make playing the game even more fun."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 3rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"My favorite game created by Rockstar North is ABC. I have played it for about six months now and can tell you that I enjoy the graphics immensely, the soundtrack is perfect, and the open world approach is brilliant. I would be excited to work on the next release of this game, and offer up ideas I have on the storyline."
21. When have you applied a unique or creative approach to solving a difficult development problem?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to see that you are capable of overcoming issues that arise during development, uniquely and creatively. Assure Rockstar North that you will not be the type of developer who throws their hands in the air and gives up at every turn. Show that you genuinely dig in to solve an issue. Begin by giving an overview of the difficulty, then discuss the action you chose to take, and then the positive outcome.
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 3rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"My former company created primarily Android applications, and we used Java, in which I am an expert level user. One of the games we were developing needed a more modern programming language and some of the features required simplification. I brought in a contractor who was advanced in Kotlin, which nobody on my team understood well enough at that time. The choice to bring someone in was the right one; however, I chose to enroll in Kotlin coursework shortly after. I am proud to say that I now bring solid skills in both Java and Kotlin."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 3rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"I was recently asked to take an existing iOS application and create it for Android. The most significant issue I came across was that the mobile app relied heavily on the fingerprint sensor as part of the user experience. Since Android is open source, apps are used on a variety of hardware. This open source meant that I needed to get creative by implementing multiple authentications, allowing for the various hardware features of all Android devices. It was a significant challenge but one that I genuinely enjoyed."
22. Working as a video game tester with Rockstar North, you will have a level of autonomy that may be higher than you have experienced in previous positions. Describe how you remained self-motivated in past positions that required some degree of independence.
How to Answer
As a video game tester at Rockstar North, tasks are assigned at a high level. Testers are required to reach testing milestones by an assigned date with little guidance. This leaves game testers to manage their own schedules in the short-term, making sure they are making sufficient progress as they approach the deadline.
This higher level of independence requires a video game tester to be organized and self-motivated. Talk about how you have utilized or developed these skills in past positions, whether or not they have been for testing positions.
Written by Helen Lee on January 3rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"Working as a video game tester for years, I have a solid understanding of what is required with regards to organization and time management. I have developed skills that allow me to manage multiple testing projects at once without compromising the timeliness of completion. I have also found it is important to be able to quickly adjust my timeline in case issues arise that are beyond my control."
Written by Helen Lee on January 3rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"Over the years, I have had more opportunities to work independently. This has allowed me to develop organizational and prioritization skills necessary to complete projects successfully and on time. In addition, working independently has required me to remain self-motivated with all the tasks to which I am assigned. I gain my self-motivation by keeping my eyes on the bigger picture of the project and understanding the importance of the task at hand."
23. What is your perspective on the role of a programmer in video game development?
How to Answer
A video game programmer is someone with a software engineering background who writes the code for video games. Programmers make it possible for a game to run! It is a software engineer who creates the code that makes a video game run. Because video games are so sophisticated these days, you will usually find that programmers specialize in specific areas. Discuss with the interviewer where you feel programmers fit into the scheme of things when it comes to video game development.
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 3rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"In my opinion, a great programmer will have a perfect blend of education and real-world skills, allowing them to make games that people want to play. Programmers are an integral part to video game development whether they are focused on audio, graphics, or another area of programming."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 3rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"A video game could not be developed without the important role of a programmer. Whether a programmer is working on the graphics of a game, the audio, the intuitive controls, or the game as a whole, there is no way a game could be successful without first having an experienced and talented programmer."
24. Name some ways that developers can monetize their video games.
How to Answer
When you can understand how companies best make money in the video game industry, it's much easier to develop games that are responsive to that particular goal. The interviewer would like to see that you understand there are a variety of ways to earn money from video game development. If you have played any of the games created by Rockstar North you should be able to identify which methods they rely on for making a profit, allowing you to bring that up in your discussion.
Some earning tactics are:
- Monthly subscriptions
- Ads and sponsorships
- Micro-transactions
- Branded merchandise
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 3rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I have played your most recent video game and saw that you use a blend of monthly subscriptions and micro-transactions to make a profit. This method is one that I appreciate the most because it gives people the option to play the basic version, or upgrade their experience should they prefer. I am also aware that branded merchandise is an excellent source of profit for popular video games, and Rockstar North embraces that very well."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 3rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"The three methods which I am most aware and experienced in, including monthly subscriptions, charge per copy, and branded merchandise. As a developer, I am experienced creating video games around all three of these models; and as a gamer, I prefer monthly subscriptions."
25. Have you worked directly with technical artists, animators, and gameplay engineers?
How to Answer
The interviewer is trying to gauge your level of exposure to cross-collaborative work within the video game industry. Discuss any time you have spent working with talent from other departments or areas of expertise. If you do not have cross-departmental work experience, be sure to express that you can work with talent of all kinds.
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 3rd, 2019
1st Answer Example
"I have worked directly with gameplay engineers; however, the direct contact that I have had with technical artists and animators is minimal. I am very comfortable working in a cross-departmental team environment and look forward to learning more about the animation side from the artists and animators at Rockstar North."
Written by Rachelle Enns on January 3rd, 2019
2nd Answer Example
"Yes, I have worked with technical artists, animators, and gameplay engineers. In my current role, for the past five years, we have all collaborated as a team. I appreciate that I have the unique opportunity to learn the roles of many others in the video game development industry."