Meet The Industry’s Game Changers 

The companies at the forefront of the gaming revolution and the pivotal role of interns

The game development landscape is rapidly evolving due to the extensive usage of cutting-edge technologies such as augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technologies. This significantly influences the way games are played and by extension, redefines the skills required by those in the industry. In the quest to push the boundaries of in-game experiences, game developers are expected to continuously upskill in areas such as programming to swiftly adapt to the changing landscape. 

Several pioneering game studios stand at the vanguard of this transformation in the dynamic game development industry. We organised a panel discussion with three of these trailblazers to delve into the latest trends in game development, as well as to glean insights on how their interns from the Global Ready Talent program have catalysed their progress and success. Let us first introduce the 3 companies.

Tatsu Works - Video Game Production Company

Tatsu Works is a game production studio that aims to build immersive experiences and strengthen gaming communities. Established in 2015, Tatsu Works leveraged social platform Discord to gamify its elements and thereby cultivate a thriving community. Following Tatsu.gg’s redevelopment into Tatsumeeko, a massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG), Tatsu Works has emerged as a force to be reckoned with in the gaming industry. 

Terresquall - Creative Agency providing Design and Technology services

Terresquall is a creative agency dedicated to empowering individuals and organisations through innovative design and technology services across three primary domains: game development, web development, and visual media design. As a forward-thinking studio, Terresquall constantly explores new ideas and technologies to stay at the forefront of the gaming industry.

Gentlebros - Award-Winning Indie Gaming Studio

Founded in 2015, Gentlebros is a Singapore-based indie game studio renowned for crafting premium independent games. With a dedicated team of approximately 8 full-time employees, Gentlebros has made a mark in the gaming industry with its innovative creations, especially the acclaimed Cat Quest series. Notably, Gentlebros has embraced and championed increased female representation within the traditionally male-dominated gaming sphere, with one of its co-founders being female. 

We had the privilege of speaking with the founders and key members of the leadership team from these companies. Let us introduce our panellists. 

Mr Jerome Low - People & Culture Partner at Tatsu Works

Mr Jerome joined Tatsu Works in late 2022 as the People and Culture partner, with a focus on hiring interns and full-time employees. Before joining Tatsu Works, Mr Jerome spent almost a year in recruitment consulting. He joined the gaming industry as he has a fervent interest in playing video games across a variety of genres, and wishes to contribute back to the industry in one way or another. 

Mr Terence Pek - CEO of Terresquall 

Mr Terence taught game design development and programming for more than 10 years. After recognising his passion for game design, Mr Terence began creating YouTube tutorials to make game development more accessible. He observed that there were no comprehensive end-to-end tutorials available for building games, and the learning process was quite unstructured. Eventually, this led to his brainchild: Terresquall. 

Mr Desmond Wong - Co-founder of Gentlebros 

Mr Desmond Wong and his fellow studio founders initially met working as colleagues. Their foray into the industry began with the making of mobile games as a side project for fun. However, after completing their first game, they decided to go independent. Mr Desmond shares that he always wanted to build his own game, and was waiting for an opportunity to work in the indie scene full-time. 

Panel Discussion

What are some emerging trends or areas of growth within the gaming industry, and how will this impact interns considering a career path in this industry?

Mr Low (Tatsu Works): Most game developers rely on game development engines such as Unity or Unreal, which are crucial in generating the visually stunning and immersive games you see today. Today's industry trends include the expansion of Extended Reality (XR), a combination of AR and VR technology. Mastery of such engines or similar technology creates additional opportunities in sectors for the use of XR and newer game styles. They also provide a wide basis of skills for non-gaming industries in film, architecture, and even education that utilise these skills for simulation and interactivity. 

Mr Pek (Terresquall): The prevalence of artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to disrupt traditional job roles by automating certain tasks, which could impact various aspects of game development. For example, AI algorithms like Midjourney and DALL-E are potentially replacing average-quality work with highly sophisticated outputs. For programmers, it is crucial to consider how they can add value beyond just coding. For interns, they need to consider how AI will impact their careers in the gaming industry and proactively think about how to integrate AI into their workflow.

“...artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to disrupt traditional job roles by automating certain tasks… interns need to consider how AI will impact their careers in the gaming industry and proactively think about how to integrate AI into their workflow.”

• Mr Pek

Mr Wong (Gentlebros): I definitely agree with the other panellists that staying up-to-date on the latest technologies such as AI to contribute to the core aspect of game development is crucial. It is also worth noting that while knowledge of emerging technologies like AI can certainly be advantageous, it typically serves as a supplementary skill that adds value to the core game development. Employers often prioritise candidates who have practical experience in game development over those that only possess theoretical knowledge of these emerging technologies. 

Could you share stories of interns who have successfully contributed to the overall success of your projects?

Mr Low (Tatsu Works): One of the interns who interned in 2019 is now a co-founder of Tatsu! We also have another intern from DigiPen who worked on the unity team and the VP of engineering as well as the unity lead provided very positive remarks for this intern, even offering a conversion to a full-time employee. 

Mr Pek (Terresquall): During the COVID-19 pandemic, we had an intern who independently took charge of an entire project. I was pleasantly surprised to find out that the client was extremely satisfied with the work delivered. It was rare for an intern to deliver such high-quality work! 

I recognised that the intern’s client-facing skills had some room for improvement and wanted to provide opportunities for my interns to grow. For example, I shared that if a client makes a mistake, it is important not to point fingers but to phrase it in a more constructive and tactful manner. Fortunately, this client was understanding, thereby creating learning opportunities for my interns to develop essential soft skills during client liaison.

Mr Wong (Gentlebros): We had an extremely reserved intern that mostly kept to himself and we were unsure of how to work with someone with such a quiet demeanour. Afterward, we reached out to his school and learnt that he was on the autism spectrum. Nevertheless, he excelled in his tasks and displayed exceptional attention to detail. He became one of our top performers and eventually agreed to extend the internship. This was a timely reminder to us that individuals with diverse backgrounds and abilities can thrive and contribute significantly to our industry too. 

Since you have worked extensively with interns at your company, what advice would you give employers who are working with interns for the first time? 

Mr Low (Tatsu Works): Companies need to be aware that interns are still learning and have not developed full proficiency yet. Therefore, during interviews, tweak your questions and avoid going overly in-depth into questions that require technical knowledge. For instance, for marketing roles, consider asking about campaigns the candidate found effective and why, to understand their thought process rather than solely focusing on technical knowledge. Overall, one should be comfortable with interns who have limited knowledge and experience. Be prepared to invest time into guiding and teaching them over the next few months.

Mr Pek (Terresquall): Adding on, I believe that the most effective way to maximise the potential of interns is by treating them as peers rather than subordinates as it yields the most beneficial outcomes for both parties. When interns feel respected and valued, they are more likely to reciprocate with dedication and enthusiasm. Rather than dictating tasks based solely on the company's needs, it is beneficial to understand the motivations and aspirations of your interns. If you are able to make the intern feel like you have given consideration to their interests, they are likely to put in additional effort in their work. With creative work, there is always room to go the extra mile, thus having an intern who is giving their 110% will be really beneficial.

Mr Wong (Gentlebros): Stay open-minded and understand that interns may not function at the same level as full-time employees as their primary purpose is to learn. Furthermore, providing them with opportunities and experience will help them understand what it is like working in a professional environment. It is important to recognise that interns are not replacements for full-timers. Instead, consider their long-term potential and how they could potentially grow into core members of the team. Nurture them with the aim of potentially transitioning them into full-time roles in the future.

“It is important to recognise that interns are not replacements for full-timers. Instead, consider their long-term potential and how they could potentially grow into core members of the team.“

• Mr Wong

How do you ensure that interns receive meaningful and enriching experiences during their time at your company? 

Mr Low (Tatsu Works): We empower interns by understanding their individual goals and learning needs - this enables us to tailor their internship experience to their aspirations, creating an environment for growth and development. Additionally, we strive to foster a culture of recognition and appreciation by publicly praising interns for their contributions and achievements.

Mr Pek (Terresquall): Interns are encouraged to strike a balance between their learning objectives and the tasks assigned to them. While the bulk of our work is video editing, if an intern demonstrates a particular interest in a specific area, I make a conscious effort to provide them with tasks that cater to their preferences. For instance, I had an intern who expressed a keen interest in using shaders. Therefore, I delegated him tasks related to shader programming. I facilitated this learning process by allocating some time weekly for his independent exploration and providing guidance when needed. With dedicated time for experimentation, the intern quickly adapted and made progress. This echoes the point Mr Low made about understanding the individual goals of interns. 

Mr Wong (Gentlebros): We take great effort to include our interns in our core productions, and give them responsibilities sometimes equal to that of full-time employees. We feel a big part of the learning experience is being part of a professional team and learning what that means. Such opportunities allow interns to contribute to significant projects and witness firsthand how their work contributes to the company's success. We also always have a senior member attached to our interns to ensure that someone is always there to assist if they have any questions or problems.

Lastly, is there any advice would you give to students or recent graduates aspiring to pursue internships in the gaming industry? 

Mr Low (Tatsu Works): While hard skills can be taught, a good attitude is difficult to train. Stay open to learning and recognise that the theories taught in school may differ from real-world practices. To showcase your positive attitude and open mind, demonstrate your willingness to explore new things and embrace challenges. For example, during interviews, you can share experiences of trying out game modification or design, detailing the obstacles you faced and how you overcame them. The ability to learn and bounce back from challenges will help you to thrive in the dynamic, fast-paced environment in the gaming industry.  

“...demonstrate your willingness to explore new things and embrace challenges. For example, during interviews, you can share experiences of trying out game modification or design, detailing the obstacles you faced and how you overcame them.”

• Mr Low

Mr Pek (Terresquall): If you are a programmer who is also somewhat competent in creating aesthetics, or an artist who is capable of writing some code, you will be in demand. The industry has a lot of specialists, but if you are able to handle both, you will be able to help your company expedite the development process in many small, but significant ways.

Mr Wong (Gentlebros): Students can showcase their practical experience in game development through the creation or modification of games. From a technical perspective, learning the various engines (such as Unreal by Unity, Godolo) can set one apart from other applicants. Additionally, take the time to research the company you are applying to while showcasing to the employer how you can value add. Tailoring your application to the company also helps to demonstrate genuine interest and sincerity in your application. During the internship, students need to approach their internship as a professional endeavour and take it seriously. 

Moderator: Thank you for your invaluable insights! It was interesting to find out these internships have provided mutual benefits to both parties. Earlier, all panellists highlighted how interns have made significant contributions to your projects. On the other hand, it was heartening to know how you have fostered a conducive and supportive environment at work. 

The gaming industry is rapidly evolving with the integration of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technologies, precipitating a wave of change in the reshaping of gameplay and redefining required skills. For students or graduates keen on joining the game development industry, the Global Ready Talent program is a stepping stone for interns to broaden their horizons and gain practical experience. The forward-thinking companies under this program entrust meaningful responsibilities to interns to foster their professional growth and remain competitive at work. 

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