Welcome file

How to Start a Career in Game Development (Even Without a Degree)

By the Macedonian Union of Games Industry (MUGI)
Empowering the next generation of game creators

Why Game Development?

The video game industry is one of the fastest-growing creative sectors globally, generating over $180 billion annually. In North Macedonia and across the Balkans, the rise of indie studios, game jams, and accessible tools has made game development a viable and exciting career – even for those without formal degrees. Whether you’re a self-taught artist, an aspiring programmer, or a storyteller with a passion for interactive worlds, there’s a place for you in game development. Here’s how to get started.

Step 1: Understand the Game Development Pipeline

Knowing where your interests lie helps you focus your learning. Game development is a multidisciplinary process involving:

Game Design – mechanics, systems, rules
Programming – gameplay, engines, UI
Art & Animation – 2D/3D assets, character design, environments
Audio – music, sound effects, voice-over
Production – project management, marketing, publishing

Step 2: Learn by Doing (Free or Low-Cost Resources)

You don’t need a degree to learn game development — you need commitment, consistency, and the right tools.

Platforms & Tools:

Unity / Unreal Engine – Powerful free engines for 2D and 3D games.
Godot – Lightweight, open-source engine ideal for indie games.
Blender – Industry-standard free tool for 3D modeling and animation.
GDevelop / Construct – Drag-and-drop tools for beginners.

Online Courses & Tutorials:

YouTube Channels: Brackeys, Game Dev TV, GDQuest
Free MOOCs: Coursera, edX, Udemy (watch for free trials or discounts)
GitHub & itch.io: Explore open-source projects and upload your own.

Step 3: Build a Portfolio

You’ll learn more from making 3 small games than building one giant unfinished one. A strong portfolio beats a CV in the game industry.

Start with small projects — game clones, prototypes, jam entries.
Publish them on itch.io or MUGI’s upcoming virtual showcase.
Write devlogs or post updates on LinkedIn, Discord, or Reddit.

Step 4: Join a Community

Game development is not a solo journey. Collaboration, feedback, and mentorship accelerate growth.

Join Galactic Omnivor’s Programs:

Open to beginners and teams; mentorship included.
Partnered with educational institutions and local mentors.
Join their Discord Server, find teammates, ask for code help, or share feedback.

Step 5: Apply for Internships, Freelance Gigs, and Accelerators

You don’t need a degree - but you do need experience.

Apply to intern at a local or regional studio (check MUGI job board soon).
Look for remote freelance gigs on platforms like Upwork, Hitmarker, or GameDevJobs.io.
Pitch your game concept to MUGI’s incubation program (launching in 2026).

Step 6: Stay Inspired, Stay Consistent

Game development is a long game. It takes time to master your craft, but the tools, community, and opportunities are more accessible than ever before.

“Your first game won’t be perfect — but it will be yours.” – Indie developer mantra

MUGI is Here to Support You

At MUGI, we believe talent shouldn’t be gatekept by diplomas. Whether you’re coding in your bedroom, sketching worlds in your notebook, or dreaming of a startup, we’re building the ecosystem to help you thrive. Stay updated with our workshops, community calls, and upcoming grant opportunities by signing up for our newsletter or following us on Instagram and LinkedIn.

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