Getting started in any industry is definitely an uphill battle. How much education plays a factor, what companies you should apply to, what job you should expect to land, etc. With many people actively seeking a new career in the gaming industry, many people wonder what it takes to break through. Dave Perry, game developer extrordinaire, posted an interview with none other than Ed Boon, co-creator of the Mortal Kombat series, in order to get his impressions and recommendations to those wanting to break into the industry.

Without using terms like "indentured servant" or "voluntary servitude", please describe your ideal protege.

That is the first time anyone asked be that question as I never really saw myself as someone who would have a protege. I suppose it would be someone who has a programming background. Even though I do very little programming now, I've always felt that my background has helped me communicate my ideas to the technical people on our team. So, I'd say, someone with a programming background, a knowledge and understanding of the big selling games and the ability to communicate their ideas clearly. This is especially true today with team of 40-50 people.

Overall, this is a very unique interview that goes into the thoughts and ideas of the man behind the series, instead of the normal Mortal Kombat oriented interview.

That's an awesome interview, Jeff.

Originally Posted by : Ed Boon
Everyone thinks they have the next Pac Man in their head, but it's the person who can turn an idea into a real functioning game that will get my attention.

That's the best bit out of the whole thing. It pretty much sums up my arguement in the art forums Like I said, very good interview. It gives you some insite and isn't the same old MK drivel you see every where else.

Speaking of the next pac-man, I thought up a great idea for a game the other day. I think I'm gonna make a thread in General or something about peoples good ideas for new games! (If that's already been done stop me now)

I have to say that is a very intelligent and well thought out interview and was nothing I expected when I clicked on the Link. I usually breeze over this kind of stuff but this was an interesting read and I'm not usually that interested in the game industry.