- “My main advice for those aspiring to be a game director is to strike a balance between creative vision and technical expertise.”
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Behind every successful game is a team of talented developers making it a reality. In our Jobs in Games series, we showcase individuals working in the gaming industry, from seasoned developers with major hits to newcomers.
We inquire about their entry into the industry and their recommendations for those seeking a career in games.
In this interview, we spoke with Ammar Yasser Alrashoudi, game director at UMX Studios, to delve into his journey into gaming, alternative career potential, and advice for those aiming to break into the industry.
Can you share some insights into your background and how you got started in the gaming industry?
Ammar Yasser Alrashoudi: With over a decade in the gaming industry, my gaming journey spans more than 20 years. My fascination with gaming started during my childhood with the PS1, where I was captivated by the immersive stories, engaging gameplay, and lifelike graphics.
During high school, I developed my first game – an MMO RPG. Despite the challenges, like limited resources and scarce game development knowledge, I persisted. Through self-teaching via trial and error, online forums, and connecting with experienced individuals globally, I laid the groundwork for my passion to create immersive worlds and engaging experiences for players.
How did you transition into the role of game director at UMX Studios?
By creating my pioneer game in high school and assuming various roles within the gaming industry, I honed a profound insight into the elements that contribute to a game’s success from conception to execution. Over time, I cultivated expertise in game requirements, development, and leadership, qualifying me for the role of game director.
My opportunity at UMX Studios arose following my involvement in the Alibaba – Beeto – Game Federation project. This endeavor solidified my reputation for seamlessly merging creative and technical game design components. A chance encounter with UMX Studios CEO Ali Alharbi at a gaming event led to discussions regarding our shared vision for innovative gaming experiences.
The studio sought a candidate with practical experience and a clear creative direction, aligning my background seamlessly with their objectives. It’s exhilarating to be part of a team shaping the future of local game innovation.
Why opt for a gaming career? And if not gaming, what alternative profession would you pursue?
I selected a gaming career due to its blend of creativity, narrative, problem-solving, and gameplay. Games possess the power to transport individuals to new realms, providing unique experiences unmatched by other media.
“If I wasn’t involved in gaming, I could see myself delving into the realm of game live streaming.”
Ammar Yasser Alrashoudi
The ability to merge technical expertise with creative vision renders the gaming industry an ideal environment for my pursuits. If not in gaming, I could envision myself thriving in the domain of game live streaming. This platform amalgamates my gaming fervor with an interactive, community-centered experience I cherish.
Do you have any tips for aspiring game directors and advice for individuals facing career challenges?
For individuals aspiring to embark on a game director path, my central counsel is to cultivate a harmonious blend of creative vision and technical proficiency. To excel as a game director, comprehensive industry experience coupled with a profound understanding of game creation facets is crucial.
Leadership proficiency is crucial as a game director since you guide the team towards a shared vision while overseeing deadlines and resources. Keep in mind that the outcomes of your work may only materialize after significant time, ranging from two to even seven years, contingent on the game’s scale. Thus, patience and a long-term outlook are indispensable.
For those facing setbacks or employment challenges, I advise against losing hope. The gaming industry perpetually evolves, presenting abundant opportunities. Utilize this period to invest in personal growth, whether through skill acquisition, network expansion, or showcasing your abilities via personal projects.
