Product Manager

A Product Manager is a key figure responsible for overseeing the development and success of a video game throughout its life cycle. They act as a bridge between different teams, including Game Designers, Programmers and Artists. Their primary role is to define the product vision, set goals and create a roadmap for game development.

 

A Product Manager conducts market research, analyzes player feedback and identifies trends to ensure the game meets the needs and expectations of the target audience. They work closely with the Development team to prioritize features, manage timelines and efficiently allocate resources. In addition, they collaborate with the Marketing team to create strategies for product promotion, user acquisition and monetization models. With their comprehensive understanding of the market and game development process, a Product Manager plays a key role in delivering a successful and engaging experience to players.

Tools

Jira

Microsoft Project

Scrumwise

Slack

Google Analytics

Tableau

GameAnalytics

Salesforce

Adobe XD

COLLABORATION WITH OTHER TEAMS:

For a Product Manager, effective collaboration with other positions is key to successful game development and launch. First and foremost, a Product Manager works closely with the Game Designers. They work together to define the game’s vision, features and mechanics, ensuring that the final product aligns with the target audience’s preferences and fulfills the desired gaming experience. A Product Manager provides insight into market trends, user feedback and business goals, helping Game Designers make informed decisions during the creative process. This collaboration ensures that the game design and gameplay experience are engaging, balanced and aligned with the overall product strategy.

 

In addition, a Product Manager works closely with the Development team, including Engineers and Programmers. They act as a bridge between the development, Marketing and Finance teams. A Product Manager communicates project goals, timelines and requirements to them, ensuring that the technical implementation is in line with the desired product vision. They facilitate discussions and decision-making processes, working with the Development team to prioritize features, resolve technical challenges and manage resources. By encouraging collaboration between different teams, a Product Manager ensures that the game is developed efficiently and meets defined quality standards.

Skills

Depending on seniority, this position is expected to be able to master, do and deliver the following:

Hard skills

  • Product development
    • Understands the product development lifecycle, from concept to launch and post-launch support.
  • Data analysis and decision-making
    • Possesses good analytical skills to gather, interpret and derive insights from various data sources.
  • Business and financial acumen
    • Understands market dynamics, competition and monetization models prevalent in the gaming market.

Soft skills

  • Communication and collaboration
    • Clearly articulates product vision, requirements and priorities, builds relationships, resolves conflicts and fosters collaboration.
  • Adaptability and flexibility
    • Due to changing market trends, new technology and evolving player preferences, is willing to try new ideas and approaches.
  • Leadership and influence
    • Inspires and motivates the team, drives decision-making, negotiates compromises and advocates for the best interests of the product.

Seniority

Depending on seniority, this position is expected to be able to master, do and deliver the following:

Junior

  • Quickly grasps the dynamics of the industry, understands the game or product they are working on, learns from experienced team members, adapts to changing circumstances.
  • Collects and analyzes data on the market, competition and player preferences, conducts user research, gathers insights to help make decisions.
  • Is skilled in creating and maintaining product documentation, i.e. in writing clear and concise user stories, product requirements and functional specifications.
  • Collaborates effectively with diverse teams, participates in meetings, contributes to design discussions, assists in project management.

Medior

  • Has a solid understanding of the market and can contribute to the development of a comprehensive product strategy.
  • Leads teams involved in game development towards a shared vision, ensures effective communication and coordination, and sets clear goals.
  • Is an analytical thinker and skilled in analyzing metrics and product data, interpreting user behavior, engagement metrics and monetization data.
  • Is involved in marketing and product launch activities, collaborates with the Marketing team to develop effective positioning, messaging and go-to-market strategies.

Senior

  • Defines and leads the strategic vision for the product, sets long-term goals, identifies growth opportunities and aligns product strategies with overall business goals.
  • Interacts with a wide range of people, is adept at building relationships, influences decision-making, effectively communicates product strategies, progress and challenges.
  • Has an excellent understanding of markets, business models and monetization strategies, develops and implements business strategies that drive revenue growth.
  • Oversees product planning, feature prioritization and roadmap development, excels in product optimization based on user feedback and performance indicators.
PRODUCT MANAGER // GAME PRODUCTION //
PRODUCT MANAGER // GAME PRODUCTION //

EDUCATION:

If you are interested in a career in production within the gaming industry, consider earning a degree or taking a course in game development, project management, or business administration with a focus on the entertainment or media industry. Programs covering project management methodologies, video game production pipelines, as well as agile development practices and project budgeting will be of particular value to you. An understanding of the technical aspects of game development, including game engines, game art and design processes, and software development cycles, will provide you with a good foundation for overseeing game production.

 

In addition to formal education, gaining hands-on experience through an internship or entry-level position in video game development or project management can be critical to your preparation for a role in production. Participate in projects to gain insight into the challenges and workflows that are part of game creation. Developing organizational skills, problem-solving abilities and effective communication are essential for success in production roles. Networking with industry professionals, attending events and staying informed about trends and technologies will further improve your prospects for starting a career in this field.

Resources

Books

  • “Inspired: How to Create Tech Products Customers Love” – Marty Cagan
  • “The Lean Product Playbook” – Dan Olsen
  • “Hooked: How to Build Habit-Forming Products” – Nir Eyal
  • “Cracking the PM Interview” – Gayle Laakmann McDowell, Jackie Bavaro
  • “Product Leadership” – Richard Banfield, Martin Eriksson, Nate Walkingshaw

Individuals

  • Marty Cagan (@cagan)
  • Melissa Perri (@lissijean)
  • Teresa Torres (@ttorres)
  • Ken Norton (@kennethn)
  • Hiten Shah (@hnshah)

What does the interview for this position look like?​

News

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PRODUCT MANAGER // GAME PRODUCTION //
PRODUCT MANAGER // GAME PRODUCTION //